Installing Laminate Flooring Over Existing Vinyl: A Comprehensive Guide

When considering installing laminate flooring over an already existing vinyl floor in your kitchen, there are several important factors you need to consider. This guide will walk you through the process, including whether you need underlayment and how to deal with squeaky floors.

Removing Existing Vinyl Flooring

If you decide to remove your existing vinyl flooring, it is a relatively straightforward process. The vinyl should be pulled up using a pry bar under a thin, 1/4-inch thick sanded plywood layer that is stapled down. You can swiftly remove the vinyl by doing this. Any leftover staples can be hammered down. Following this, you can screw down the subfloor to the floor joists, ensuring a solid connection with the joists rather than guessing.

Advantages of Removing the Old Floor

There are several advantages to removing the old vinyl floor before installing laminate. Firstly, it allows for a proper screw-down of the subfloor, leading to a more solid and stable installation. Additionally, a closer transition to the floor outside the kitchen can be achieved, which may help with evenness and aesthetics. Removing one or two layers of flooring and subfloor can significantly reduce the risk of water damage and musty odors in the future, especially if spills do occur.

Handling Mold Between Laminate and Vinyl

It is important to note that there is a common problem when installing laminate over vinyl: mold. Due to the impermeable nature of laminate and the old vinyl, there is a risk of moisture build-up and mold growth between the two materials. This makes it impossible to fully dry out the area, leading to lingering mold issues.

Dealing with Squeaky Floors

Squeaky floors can be a significant issue, and without pulling up the old vinyl and the 1/4-inch subfloor, it will be extremely difficult to eliminate them. The 1/4-inch subfloor is flimsy, and the staples used to hold it in place are likely not sufficient. Mechanically tightening the subfloor, such as by screwing it down, might offer a temporary fix but could create a hassle for future removal. The safest and most logical course of action is to simply pull up the old vinyl and subfloor. This is an easy and effective solution.

Final Thoughts on Laminate Floors in Kitchens

While laminate is not the ideal choice for a kitchen floor due to its susceptibility to water damage, it is budget-friendly and easy for DIY enthusiasts to install. High-quality laminates claim water resistance for up to 24 hours, allowing users to be a bit less vigilant in cleaning up spills. However, taking the time to eliminate squeaks before installing laminate can significantly enhance the overall experience. As one perspective suggests, you may not need underlayment, and squeaks might or might not go away. Therefore, it is wise to try various methods first, such as using screws or special hardware from below if you can access the floor joists.

Conclusion

By carefully following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure a successful installation of laminate flooring over existing vinyl, addressing mold and squeaks effectively. Whether you decide to remove the old vinyl or tackle squeaks directly, taking the time to prepare properly will result in a more enjoyable and long-lasting kitchen renovation.