If you have a tile floor but you’re looking to install something new, you may not have to start from scratch. In many cases, you can install a new laminate floor right on top of your existing tile floor, saving you time, money, and the hassle of removing old flooring. However, if your tile isn’t in good shape, the process isn’t so simple.
If you’re not sure where to start with installing laminate over your tile floor, this guide is here to help. Read on to learn more about laminate floors and the pros and cons of installing them on top of your existing tile.
Can You Put Laminate Over Tile?
The short answer is yes, in many cases, you can install laminate flooring over ceramic tile floors. In fact, it’s more cost-effective to do so since you don’t have to pay to remove the old tile. According to Angi, the cost of laminate flooring installation is $2,987 on average. If you install it over your existing tile, there’s no extra expense to worry about.
However, it’s important to think about your tile condition before you run to the store and buy new laminate.
Assessing Tile Condition
Before you install laminate over tile, be sure to evaluate your current flooring. If you want to lay laminate over it, the tile has to be:
- In good condition with no loose or cracked tiles
- Well-attached to the subfloor
- Level and flat across the entire surface
If your tile floor meets these criteria, it can serve as a suitable base for laminate flooring. However, if there are issues with the tile, you have to address them before installing the laminate.
Pros and Cons of Installing Laminate Over Tile
Like any home improvement project, installing laminate over tile has its advantages and disadvantages.
Pros
- Cost-effective: Avoids the expense of tile removal
- Time-saving: Skips the lengthy process of demolition and disposal
- Less messy: Reduces the dust and debris that comes with tile removal
- Preserves original flooring: Allows you to revert to tile in the future
Cons
- Increased floor height: May require adjustments to doors and transitions
- Potential for unevenness: Imperfections in the tile can telegraph through the laminate
- Moisture problems: Trapped moisture between layers can lead to warping, mold, and mildew.
- Limited to suitable tile conditions: Not all tile floors are suitable to put laminate on top of.
Tools and Materials Needed
Before you start laying down your floors, you need to have the right tools and materials on hand. Here’s what homeowners will need:
- Laminate flooring planks
- Underlayment
- Measuring tape
- Pencil
- Utility knife
- Saw (circular, jigsaw, or miter saw)
- Spacers
- Tapping block
- Pull bar
- Hammer
- Safety glasses and knee pads
Preparing the Tile Surface
Even if your tile is in good condition, you may need to do some work on it before you start laying the new floor. For best results, do the following:
- Clean the tile thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.
- Fill any grout lines or uneven areas with a leveling compound.
- Make sure the surface is completely dry before installation.
Steps for Installing Laminate Over Tile
Once the prep work is done, you’re ready to start laying your new flooring. For more detailed instructions, check out our guide on how to install laminate flooring. Here are the key steps involved:
1. Measure and Plan
Measure all the dimensions of the room, allowing for a 1/4-inch expansion gap around the room’s perimeter. Accurate measurements are important for purchasing the right amount of materials and planning the layout.
2. Choose the Right Underlayment
For those who don’t know, an underlayment is a thin layer of material (usually foam or rubber) that lays between the subfloor and the floor covering (including carpet and laminate flooring). This layer helps stabilize, insulate, and protect the floor. Look for options that provide:
- Moisture barrier protection
- Sound-dampening properties
- Slight cushioning to smooth minor imperfections
3. Install the Underlayment
Roll out the underlayment over the clean, dry tile floor. Tape the seams with the manufacturer’s recommended tape to create a continuous barrier. Do this over the entire surface of the subfloor.
4. Begin Laminate Installation
Start in a corner of the room and work your way out, following the manufacturer’s instructions for clicking or locking the planks together. Use spacers to maintain the expansion gap.
5. Cut and Fit as Needed
Use a saw to cut planks to fit around obstacles or at the edges of the room. Always wear proper safety gear when cutting.
6. Install Trim and Transitions
Once the laminate is in place, remove the spacers and install baseboards to cover the expansion gap and create a finished look.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Even with careful planning, challenges may come up during the installation process. Here are some common issues and how to address them:
Height Differences
Installing laminate over tile will raise your floor height. This could lead to issues with doors, baseboards, and transitions to other flooring types. Some solutions include:
- Trimming the bottoms of doors
- Adjusting baseboards
- Using transition strips between different flooring materials
Moisture Concerns
Moisture can also be a big problem when installing laminate over tile, especially in areas like bathrooms or kitchens. To mitigate this risk:
- Use a high-quality moisture barrier underlayment
- Seal any gaps or seams thoroughly
- Consider using water-resistant laminate in moisture-prone areas
Uneven Surfaces
If the tile floor isn’t perfectly level, it can affect the laminate installation. To address this:
- Use a self-leveling compound to smooth out minor imperfections BEFORE installation
- For more significant issues, consider paying for floor grinding or professional leveling services
When To Call a Professional
While installing laminate over tile can be a DIY project, there are situations where you may need professional help. Consider hiring a professional contractor if you:
- Have large or complex room layouts
- Need significant floor leveling
- Have concerns about moisture or structural issues
- Lack the time or proper tools to complete the project
DIY installation can save money, but a professional can give advice on the best types of laminate and underlayment for the homeowner’s needs. They’ll also handle unexpected issues more efficiently, saving you money on costly repairs in the long run.
Final Thoughts About Installing Laminate Over Tile
As the old saying goes, “work smarter, not harder.” If you don’t have to rip out your existing tile before you add a new layer of flooring, why do the extra work? Instead, spend some time assessing your tile to see if it’s in good shape, and if so, do some prep work to get your tile ready for your new laminate flooring.
From there, you can do the rest yourself or hire a professional. Either way, installing laminate over tile is a great way to save time and money on home renovations.
