Can You Floor Over Linoleum? (3 Install Blunders!)

Imagine this: you’ve just moved into your dream home, and everything seems perfect, except for the tired, outdated linoleum flooring in the kitchen. You’re eager to transform the space and create a fresh, modern look.

But as you stand there contemplating your options, a dilemma arises: should you remove the old linoleum or simply floor over it? This question looms large in the renovation process and can make or break your project.

In this article, we will delve deep into the pros and cons of flooring over linoleum and explore three common installation blunders that can turn your flooring dreams into a nightmare.

Understanding Linoleum and Its Characteristics

Let’s kick things off by getting to know linoleum a little better. What exactly is linoleum, anyway?

Linoleum is a flooring material composed of natural ingredients like linseed oil, rosin, cork dust, wood flour, and mineral fillers, all pressed onto a jute backing. It was invented way back in the 1860s by Frederick Walton and quickly became a popular choice for homes and commercial spaces.

Think of it as the OG of resilient flooring! It’s been around for a while, and while it might not be the trendiest kid on the block, it’s got a lot going for it.

Key characteristics of linoleum:

• Durability: Linoleum is known for its toughness. It can withstand a lot of foot traffic, making it suitable for high-use areas. I’ve seen linoleum floors that have lasted for decades with proper care.

• Maintenance: Keeping linoleum clean is relatively easy. Regular sweeping and occasional mopping are usually enough to keep it looking its best. However, it can be susceptible to staining and water damage if not properly sealed.

• Aesthetics: Linoleum comes in a variety of colors and patterns, allowing for diverse design options. While it might not have the same high-end look as hardwood or tile, it can still be quite attractive, especially with modern designs.

Now, why would someone even consider flooring over linoleum instead of ripping it out? Well, there are a few compelling reasons. First and foremost, it can save a ton of time and effort. Removing old flooring can be a real pain, involving scraping, prying, and a whole lot of dust. By flooring over it, you skip all that hassle.

Secondly, it can be more cost-effective. Demolition and disposal fees can add up quickly, especially if you’re dealing with a large area. Flooring over linoleum eliminates these costs.

Finally, the existing linoleum can actually provide a stable and level base for the new flooring. This can be especially beneficial if the subfloor underneath is uneven or damaged.

But let’s not forget about the environment! Linoleum is made from natural, renewable materials, making it a more eco-friendly choice compared to some synthetic flooring options. By keeping it in place, you’re reducing waste and contributing to a more sustainable renovation.

According to the Linoleum Information Center, linoleum is biodegradable and doesn’t release harmful VOCs (volatile organic compounds) into the air, contributing to better indoor air quality.

So, as you can see, there’s more to linoleum than meets the eye. It’s a durable, relatively easy-to-maintain, and eco-friendly flooring option that can be a viable base for your new floor.

The Pros and Cons of Flooring Over Linoleum

Alright, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of flooring over linoleum. Is it always a good idea? Not necessarily. Like any renovation decision, there are pros and cons to consider. Let’s break them down.

Pros:

• Time-Saving: As I mentioned earlier, flooring over linoleum can save you a significant amount of time. Think about it: demolition can take days, depending on the size of the room and the condition of the existing flooring. By skipping this step, you can move straight to installation, speeding up the entire project.

  I once worked on a kitchen remodel where the homeowner was on a tight deadline. We were able to complete the project a full week ahead of schedule simply by flooring over the existing linoleum. The key was proper preparation, which we’ll get into later.

• Cost-Effective: Let’s talk money. Removing old flooring can be expensive. You’ve got the cost of labor, disposal fees, and potential repairs to the subfloor underneath. Flooring over linoleum eliminates these costs, allowing you to allocate your budget to other areas of the renovation.

  According to HomeAdvisor, the average cost to remove flooring ranges from \$3 to \$6 per square foot. That can add up quickly, especially in larger spaces. By avoiding removal, you could potentially save hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

• Stability: Here’s a big one: existing linoleum can provide a stable base for your new flooring. If the linoleum is in good condition – meaning it’s flat, level, and securely adhered to the subfloor – it can act as a smooth foundation for the new material. This is particularly helpful if the subfloor is uneven or has minor imperfections.

  I’ve seen situations where the subfloor was so damaged that it would have required extensive repairs before new flooring could be installed. By flooring over the existing linoleum, we were able to avoid these costly repairs and create a level surface for the new floor.

Cons:

• Height Issues: This is perhaps the most common concern when flooring over linoleum. Adding a new layer of flooring will inevitably raise the overall height of the floor. This can create issues with transitions to adjacent rooms, door clearances, and even appliance heights.

  Imagine installing a thick layer of laminate flooring over linoleum in your kitchen. Suddenly, your dishwasher doesn’t fit under the countertop anymore, or you have a noticeable step up into the dining room. These are the types of problems that can arise from height issues.

  Before you decide to floor over linoleum, carefully measure the thickness of the new flooring and assess how it will affect transitions and clearances. You may need to adjust door heights or install transition strips to create a smooth and safe transition between rooms.

• Potential Moisture Issues: This is a big one, and it’s often overlooked. If moisture gets trapped between the old linoleum and the new flooring, it can lead to a whole host of problems, including mold growth, mildew, and rotting of the subfloor.

  Linoleum is not waterproof, and it can absorb moisture over time. If the existing linoleum is damp or has a history of water damage, flooring over it can exacerbate the problem.

  Before you proceed, thoroughly inspect the linoleum for any signs of moisture damage. If you suspect there’s a moisture issue, address it before installing the new flooring. This may involve repairing leaks, improving ventilation, or applying a moisture barrier.

• Adhesion Concerns: The surface of old linoleum can affect the adhesion of the new flooring material. Over time, linoleum can become dirty, greasy, or coated with old wax. These contaminants can prevent the new flooring from bonding properly, leading to peeling, bubbling, or other adhesion problems.

  Proper surface preparation is crucial to ensure good adhesion. This involves thoroughly cleaning the linoleum to remove any dirt, grease, or wax. You may also need to sand or prime the surface to create a better bond.

  I’ve seen countless projects where poor adhesion led to costly failures. The new flooring starts to peel up within months, and the homeowner is left with a mess and a hefty repair bill. Don’t let this happen to you! Take the time to prepare the surface properly.

So, there you have it: the pros and cons of flooring over linoleum. As you can see, it’s not a decision to be taken lightly. Weigh the advantages and disadvantages carefully before making a choice.

Install Blunder #1: Not Preparing the Surface Properly

Okay, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of installation. One of the biggest mistakes I see homeowners make is skipping or skimping on surface preparation. Trust me, this is NOT the place to cut corners.

Surface preparation is the foundation upon which your new flooring is built. If the foundation is weak, the entire structure will crumble. In this case, that means your new flooring will fail prematurely.

So, what does proper surface preparation entail? It’s more than just a quick sweep and mop. It involves a thorough cleaning, leveling, and priming of the existing linoleum surface.

Common mistakes in cleaning and leveling the linoleum surface:

• Using the wrong cleaning products: Many homeowners make the mistake of using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that can damage the linoleum surface. Avoid using bleach, ammonia, or scouring pads. Instead, opt for a mild detergent or a specialized linoleum cleaner.

• Not removing all wax and polish: Over time, linoleum can accumulate layers of wax and polish. These coatings can prevent the new flooring from adhering properly. Use a wax remover specifically designed for linoleum to strip away these layers.

• Ignoring unevenness: Even if the linoleum appears to be flat, there may be subtle dips, bumps, or cracks that can affect the new flooring. Use a level to identify any uneven areas and fill them with a leveling compound.

• Skipping the primer: A primer is a crucial step in surface preparation. It helps to create a better bond between the linoleum and the new flooring. Choose a primer that is compatible with both materials.

The impact of an unprepared surface on the longevity of the new flooring:

As I mentioned earlier, an unprepared surface can lead to a variety of problems, including:

• Poor adhesion: The new flooring may not stick properly, leading to peeling, bubbling, or lifting.

• Uneven appearance: Any imperfections in the linoleum surface will telegraph through to the new flooring, creating an uneven and unsightly appearance.

• Premature wear: The new flooring may wear out faster if it’s not properly supported by a level and stable base.

• Moisture problems: An unprepared surface can trap moisture, leading to mold growth, mildew, and rotting of the subfloor.

Real-life examples of projects where improper surface preparation led to costly failures:

I’ve seen countless projects where homeowners tried to cut corners on surface preparation, only to regret it later.

For example, I once worked on a bathroom remodel where the homeowner installed new vinyl plank flooring over old linoleum without properly cleaning or leveling the surface. Within a few months, the vinyl planks started to peel up, and the homeowner had to rip out the entire floor and start over. The cost of the do-over was more than double what it would have cost to prepare the surface properly in the first place.

Another time, I was called in to fix a kitchen floor where the homeowner had installed laminate flooring over linoleum without removing the old wax buildup. The laminate flooring looked great at first, but within a year, it started to buckle and warp due to the poor adhesion. The homeowner had to replace the entire floor, which was a major expense.

These are just a few examples of what can happen when you don’t prepare the surface properly. Don’t make the same mistake! Take the time to do it right, and you’ll be rewarded with a beautiful and long-lasting floor.

Install Blunder #2: Choosing the Wrong Flooring Material

So, you’ve prepped the linoleum like a pro – great job! But the battle isn’t over yet. Choosing the right flooring material to go over that linoleum is just as crucial. Not all flooring is created equal, and some materials are simply not compatible with being installed over an existing linoleum floor.

Let’s explore some common flooring options and see which ones are a good fit and which ones you should avoid.

Discuss various flooring options that can be installed over linoleum:

• Laminate Flooring: Laminate is a popular choice for its affordability and durability. It’s relatively easy to install, and it comes in a wide variety of styles and colors. Laminate can be a good option for flooring over linoleum, but it’s important to choose a high-quality laminate with a good moisture barrier. Also, ensure you use an underlayment that’s suitable for installation over existing hard surfaces.

• Vinyl Flooring (Plank or Sheet): Vinyl flooring is another excellent option. It’s waterproof, durable, and relatively inexpensive. Vinyl plank flooring is particularly popular because it’s easy to install and looks great. Sheet vinyl is a good choice for bathrooms and kitchens because it’s seamless and prevents water from seeping through.

  When installing vinyl over linoleum, make sure to use a high-quality adhesive that’s compatible with both materials. Also, consider using a self-leveling underlayment to create a perfectly smooth surface.

• Engineered Hardwood: Engineered hardwood is a good compromise between solid hardwood and laminate. It has a real wood veneer on top, giving it the look and feel of hardwood, but it’s more stable and less prone to warping than solid hardwood. Engineered hardwood can be installed over linoleum, but it’s important to choose a product that’s designed for floating installation. Also, make sure to use a moisture barrier to protect the wood from moisture damage.

Identify materials that are not suitable for installation over linoleum and the reasons why:

• Solid Hardwood: I generally advise against installing solid hardwood over linoleum. Solid hardwood is very sensitive to moisture, and it can warp, cup, or crack if exposed to excessive humidity. Linoleum can trap moisture underneath, creating a breeding ground for mold and mildew. Also, solid hardwood requires nailing to the subfloor, which can be difficult or impossible to do over linoleum.

• Ceramic or Porcelain Tile: While technically possible, tiling over linoleum presents some challenges. Tile requires a very rigid and stable substrate. Linoleum, even in good condition, can have some give. This flexibility can lead to cracked grout and even cracked tiles over time. If you’re set on tile, it’s generally best to remove the linoleum and install the tile directly on a cement backerboard.

• Carpet (Directly): While you can technically install carpet over linoleum, it’s not ideal. The linoleum can create an uneven surface for the carpet, and it can trap moisture and odors. If you’re going to install carpet, it’s generally best to remove the linoleum and install a new carpet pad directly on the subfloor.

Common misconceptions about flooring materials and their compatibility with linoleum:

• “Any flooring can be installed over linoleum as long as it’s properly prepared.” This is simply not true. As I’ve explained, some flooring materials are just not compatible with being installed over linoleum, regardless of how well the surface is prepared.

• “Thicker flooring is always better for covering imperfections.” While thicker flooring can help to hide minor imperfections, it’s not a substitute for proper surface preparation. If the linoleum is significantly uneven, thicker flooring may actually make the problem worse.

• “Waterproof flooring doesn’t need a moisture barrier.” Even waterproof flooring can benefit from a moisture barrier, especially when installed over linoleum. The moisture barrier will help to prevent moisture from seeping up from the subfloor and damaging the flooring.

Case studies showcasing successful and unsuccessful material choices:

I’ve seen firsthand how the right (and wrong) material choice can make or break a project.

• Success Story: A homeowner wanted to update their kitchen floor on a budget. They chose to install vinyl plank flooring over the existing linoleum after thoroughly cleaning and leveling the surface. They used a high-quality adhesive and a moisture barrier. The result was a beautiful and durable floor that looked great for years.

• Failure Story: A homeowner decided to install solid hardwood flooring over linoleum in their living room. They didn’t use a moisture barrier, and within a few months, the hardwood started to warp and cup. The homeowner had to rip out the entire floor and start over, which was a major expense and a huge headache.

The moral of the story? Do your research, choose the right material for your specific situation, and don’t cut corners on preparation or installation.

Install Blunder #3: Ignoring Expansion and Contraction

Alright, let’s talk about something that might not be top of mind, but it’s absolutely critical for a successful flooring installation: expansion and contraction.

What exactly is expansion and contraction? It’s the natural tendency of materials to expand when they get warmer and contract when they get colder. This is especially true for flooring materials like laminate, vinyl, and hardwood.

Discuss the critical importance of leaving proper expansion gaps around the perimeter of the room:

When you install flooring, you need to leave a small gap around the perimeter of the room, typically about 1/4 to 3/8 of an inch. This gap allows the flooring to expand and contract without putting pressure on the walls or other fixed objects.

Common pitfalls of ignoring these gaps and the resulting issues:

• Buckling: This is perhaps the most common problem. As the flooring expands, it has nowhere to go, so it starts to push against itself, causing it to buckle in the middle of the room.

• Warping: Similar to buckling, warping occurs when the flooring expands and pushes against fixed objects, causing it to lift or curve.

• Cracking: In extreme cases, the pressure from expansion can cause the flooring to crack, especially around the edges.

• Squeaking: When flooring is installed too tightly, it can rub against the subfloor or adjacent planks, causing annoying squeaks.

Tips on how to correctly account for expansion and contraction when flooring over linoleum:

• Read the manufacturer’s instructions: This is the most important step. The manufacturer will specify the exact expansion gap required for their product.

• Use spacers: Use spacers to maintain a consistent expansion gap around the perimeter of the room. You can buy spacers specifically designed for flooring installation, or you can use small pieces of wood or cardboard.

• Don’t nail or glue the flooring too close to the wall: When installing flooring that requires nailing or gluing, make sure to leave a small gap between the flooring and the wall.

• Cover the expansion gap with molding: Once the flooring is installed, you can cover the expansion gap with baseboard molding or quarter- round molding. This will give the floor a finished look and prevent dirt and debris from getting into the gap.

I’ve seen so many projects where homeowners ignored expansion gaps, only to regret it later. Don’t make the same mistake! Take the time to account for expansion and contraction, and you’ll be rewarded with a beautiful and long-lasting floor.

Conclusion: The Final Word on Flooring Over Linoleum

So, can you floor over linoleum? The answer, as you’ve probably gathered, is: it depends. It’s not a simple yes or no. It hinges on a number of factors, including the condition of the existing linoleum, the type of flooring you plan to install, and your willingness to follow proper installation procedures.

We’ve covered a lot of ground in this article, from understanding the characteristics of linoleum to exploring the pros and cons of flooring over it, and, most importantly, highlighting those three critical installation blunders that can derail your project.

Summarize the key points discussed in the article regarding the feasibility of flooring over linoleum:

• Flooring over linoleum can save time and money, but it’s not always the best option.

• Proper surface preparation is crucial for a successful installation.

• Choosing the right flooring material is essential.

• Ignoring expansion and contraction can lead to major problems.

Reinforce the significance of understanding installation blunders to avoid costly mistakes:

By understanding these common blunders, you can avoid costly mistakes and ensure that your new flooring looks great and lasts for years to come.

Leave readers with a clear understanding of whether flooring over linoleum is the right choice for their specific project:

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to floor over linoleum is a personal one. Weigh the pros and cons carefully, assess your skills and resources, and don’t be afraid to seek professional advice.

If you’re unsure about any aspect of the project, it’s always best to consult with a qualified flooring contractor. They can assess your specific situation and provide expert guidance.

Call to Action

I’d love to hear about your experiences with flooring over linoleum! Have you had a successful project? Or did you encounter any of the blunders I’ve discussed? Share your stories in the comments below. Let’s learn from each other and create a community of support for home renovation enthusiasts!

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