Wood Floor Install Over Old Floors? (7 Errors!)

Let me let you in on something that’s been a bit of a “best-kept secret” in the flooring world: installing wood floors over existing floors.

I’ve seen it save homeowners tons of time, money, and the headache of demolition.

Plus, it can create a really beautiful, seamless look.

But here’s the thing: it’s not all sunshine and roses.

I’ve seen some serious mistakes happen, and believe me, they can turn your dream floor into a nightmare.

That’s why I’m sharing my insider knowledge with you.

I’m going to walk you through the seven most common errors I see when people try to install wood floors over old ones.

Trust me, knowing these pitfalls can save you a fortune and a whole lot of stress.

So, grab a cup of coffee, and let’s dive in!

Error 1: Not Assessing the Condition of the Existing Floor

Okay, this is HUGE.

Before you even think about laying that gorgeous new wood floor, you have to play detective and figure out what’s going on underneath.

Think of your existing floor as the foundation for your new one.

If the foundation is weak, cracked, or riddled with problems, your new floor is going to suffer.

I’ve seen it happen countless times.

So, what are we looking for?

• Moisture Issues: This is enemy number one.

  • Check for water stains, discoloration, or a musty smell.
  • If you suspect moisture, invest in a moisture meter.
    
    A reading above the acceptable level (usually around 12-15% for wood) is a major red flag.
    
    
  • I once had a client who ignored a small water stain, and within months, their new hardwood was buckling from underneath!

• Warping or Unevenness: Grab a level and check for dips or humps in the floor.

  • Even small imperfections can telegraph through to your new floor.
  • You can also use a long, straight edge (like a 6-foot level) to check for unevenness.
  • Place the straight edge on the floor and look for gaps underneath.

• Structural Damage: Are there loose tiles?
  
  Squeaky spots?
  
  Soft areas?
  
  These are all signs of potential structural problems.

  • Walk around the entire floor and pay close attention to any areas that feel unstable.
  • If you find any issues, it’s time to call in a professional to assess the damage.

• Contaminants: Oil, grease, or other contaminants can prevent the new flooring adhesive from bonding properly.

  • Visually inspect the floor for any stains or residue.
  • You can also try cleaning a small area with a degreasing cleaner to see if it removes any contaminants.

How do you assess? Here’s my checklist:

Pro Tip: Don’t just eyeball it!

Get down on your hands and knees and really inspect the floor.

Trust me, it’s worth the effort.

Ignoring this step is like building a house on sand.

You might get away with it for a little while, but eventually, things are going to crumble.

Error 2: Ignoring the Height Difference

Okay, let’s talk about height.

This is something that a lot of people overlook, and it can lead to some really annoying (and even dangerous) problems.

When you install a new wood floor over an existing one, you’re essentially raising the floor level.

That might not seem like a big deal, but it can create some significant height discrepancies with adjacent rooms, doorways, and even appliances.

What are the implications?

• Tripping Hazards: A sudden change in floor height can be a major tripping hazard, especially for kids, seniors, or anyone with mobility issues.

  • I’ve seen countless near-misses because people weren’t expecting the change in height.
  • Imagine someone carrying a hot cup of coffee and tripping over the edge of the new floor.
    
    Ouch!

• Doorway Issues: Doors may not open or close properly if the floor height is too high.

  • You might have to trim the bottom of the door, which can be a pain.
  • In some cases, you might even have to re-hang the door entirely.

• Transition Problems: Creating a smooth and aesthetically pleasing transition between the new floor and adjacent floors can be tricky.

  • You’ll need to use transition strips or thresholds to bridge the height difference.
  • If you don’t choose the right transition, it can look awkward and out of place.

• Appliance Clearance: Appliances like dishwashers and refrigerators may not fit properly if the floor height is too high.

  • You might have to raise the appliance or remove the flooring underneath it.
  • This can be a major hassle, especially if the appliance is heavy or difficult to move.

How do you plan for height differences?

• Measure Everything: Use a level and a measuring tape to determine the exact height difference between the new floor and adjacent surfaces.

  • Be sure to measure in multiple locations to account for any variations in floor height.

• Choose the Right Flooring: Consider the thickness of the new flooring when making your selection.

  • Thinner flooring options will minimize the height difference.
  • Engineered hardwood is often a good choice because it’s typically thinner than solid hardwood.

• Plan Your Transitions: Choose transition strips or thresholds that will create a smooth and visually appealing transition between the new floor and adjacent surfaces.

  • There are many different types of transitions available, so take your time and find the ones that best match your style and needs.

• Consider Ramp Transitions: If you have a significant height difference, consider using a ramp transition.

  • Ramp transitions provide a gradual slope between the two surfaces, making it easier to navigate.
  • They’re also a good option for people with mobility issues.

Pro Tip: Don’t underestimate the importance of planning for height differences.

It’s much easier to address these issues before you install the new floor than it is to fix them afterward.

Error 3: Skipping Underlayment

Alright, let’s talk about underlayment.

This is one of those things that a lot of people think they can skip to save a few bucks.

Trust me, it’s a mistake.

Underlayment is a thin layer of material that you install between the old floor and the new wood floor.

It might not seem like much, but it plays a crucial role in the overall performance and longevity of your new floor.

What does underlayment do?

• Sound Insulation: Underlayment helps to absorb sound, reducing noise transmission between floors.

  • This is especially important in apartments or multi-story homes.
  • Without underlayment, every footstep will sound like thunder!

• Moisture Barrier: Underlayment can act as a moisture barrier, protecting the new wood floor from moisture that might be seeping up from the old floor.

  • As I mentioned before, moisture is the enemy of wood floors.
  • Underlayment can help to prevent warping, buckling, and other moisture-related problems.

• Cushioning and Support: Underlayment provides a layer of cushioning and support for the new wood floor.

  • This can make the floor feel more comfortable to walk on and can also help to prevent damage from heavy furniture or foot traffic.

• Corrects Minor Imperfections: Underlayment can help to smooth out minor imperfections in the old floor, creating a more even surface for the new wood floor.

  • This can be especially helpful if the old floor has some minor dips or humps.

What happens if you skip underlayment?

• Increased Noise: You’ll hear every footstep, every dropped object, and every movement on the floor.

  • This can be incredibly annoying, especially if you have kids or pets.

• Moisture Problems: The new wood floor will be more susceptible to moisture damage.

  • This can lead to warping, buckling, and other costly repairs.

• Reduced Comfort: The floor will feel harder and less comfortable to walk on.

  • You might also experience more fatigue in your legs and feet.

• Premature Wear: The new wood floor will wear out faster because it’s not properly supported.

  • This can lead to scratches, dents, and other damage.

What type of underlayment should you use?

There are many different types of underlayment available, so it’s important to choose the right one for your specific needs.

Here are a few popular options:

• Foam Underlayment: This is a common and affordable option that provides good sound insulation and cushioning.

  • It’s also easy to install.

• Cork Underlayment: Cork is a natural and sustainable material that provides excellent sound insulation and moisture resistance.

  • It’s also a good choice for people with allergies.

• Rubber Underlayment: Rubber underlayment is a durable and resilient option that provides excellent sound insulation and cushioning.

  • It’s also a good choice for high-traffic areas.

Pro Tip: Don’t skimp on underlayment!

It’s a relatively inexpensive investment that can pay off big time in the long run.

Error 4: Choosing the Wrong Type of Wood Flooring

Not all wood flooring is created equal, especially when you’re installing over an existing floor.

Choosing the wrong type can lead to a whole host of problems, from instability to aesthetic disasters.

Solid Hardwood:

This is the classic choice.

It’s beautiful, durable, and can be refinished multiple times.

But here’s the catch: solid hardwood is susceptible to moisture and temperature changes.

• Why it might NOT be ideal: If you’re installing over a concrete slab or in a high-humidity environment, solid hardwood might not be the best choice.
  
  It can expand and contract, leading to warping and buckling.

Engineered Hardwood:

This is where it gets interesting.

Engineered hardwood is made up of layers of wood veneer bonded together.

This construction makes it more stable and less prone to moisture damage than solid hardwood.

• Why it’s often a great choice: Engineered hardwood can be installed in a wider range of environments, including over concrete slabs and in basements.
  
  It’s also generally thinner than solid hardwood, which can help minimize height discrepancies.

Laminate Flooring:

Laminate is a synthetic material that mimics the look of wood.

It’s affordable, durable, and easy to install.

• Why it might be an option: Laminate is a good choice if you’re on a tight budget or if you’re looking for a low-maintenance option.
  
  However, it doesn’t have the same warmth and character as real wood.

Vinyl Flooring (Luxury Vinyl Plank – LVP):

LVP is another synthetic option that’s becoming increasingly popular.

It’s waterproof, durable, and comes in a wide range of styles.

• Why it’s worth considering: LVP is a great choice for bathrooms, kitchens, and other areas where moisture is a concern.
  
  It’s also relatively thin, which can help minimize height differences.

Factors to Consider:

• Thickness: As I’ve mentioned before, thickness is a key consideration when installing over an existing floor.
  
  Thinner flooring options will minimize height discrepancies.

• Moisture Resistance: If you’re installing in a high-humidity environment or over a concrete slab, choose a flooring option that’s resistant to moisture.

• Installation Method: Some flooring options are easier to install than others.
  
  Consider your skill level and the tools you have available when making your decision.

  • Click-lock systems are generally easier for DIYers than glue-down installations.

• Budget: Wood flooring can range in price from a few dollars per square foot to over \$20 per square foot.
  
  Set a budget before you start shopping and stick to it.

Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to ask for samples!

Most flooring stores will let you take samples home so you can see how they look in your space.

Error 5: Inadequate Expansion Gaps

Okay, let’s talk about expansion gaps.

These are small spaces that you leave around the perimeter of the room when you install a wood floor.

They might seem insignificant, but they’re absolutely crucial for the long-term health of your floor.

What are expansion gaps and why are they important?

Wood is a natural material, and it expands and contracts with changes in temperature and humidity.

If you don’t leave enough space for the wood to move, it can buckle, warp, or even crack.

Expansion gaps allow the wood to expand and contract freely without putting pressure on the surrounding walls or fixtures.

This helps to prevent damage and ensures that your floor stays looking its best for years to come.

What happens if you don’t leave enough expansion gaps?

• Buckling: The floor can buckle or lift up in the middle of the room.

  • This is a common problem when wood floors are installed too tightly.

• Warping: The floor can warp or become uneven.

  • This can be caused by moisture or temperature changes.

• Cracking: The floor can crack or split.

  • This is more common in solid hardwood floors.

• Squeaking: The floor can start to squeak as the wood rubs against the subfloor or the walls.

  • This can be incredibly annoying!

How much expansion gap should you leave?

• Consult the Manufacturer’s Instructions: Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific recommendations on expansion gaps.

• Consider the Climate: If you live in a humid climate, you’ll need to leave a larger expansion gap to account for the increased expansion of the wood.

• Use Spacers: Use spacers to maintain a consistent expansion gap as you install the floor.

  • You can buy spacers at most home improvement stores.

How do you hide the expansion gaps?

Once you’ve installed the floor, you’ll need to cover up the expansion gaps with trim or molding.

This will give your floor a finished look and protect the edges from damage.

• Baseboards: Baseboards are a common choice for covering expansion gaps.

  • They come in a variety of styles and materials to match your decor.

• Quarter Round: Quarter round is a small, rounded molding that can be used to cover expansion gaps.

  • It’s a good choice for tight spaces.

• Shoe Molding: Shoe molding is similar to quarter round, but it’s slightly taller and more decorative.

  • It’s a good choice for adding a touch of elegance to your floor.

Pro Tip: Don’t skip the expansion gaps!

They’re essential for the long-term health of your floor.

Error 6: Neglecting Local Climate Considerations

Your local climate plays a HUGE role in how your wood floor will perform over time.

Ignoring these factors can lead to problems like warping, buckling, and excessive expansion or contraction.

Humidity is Key:

• High Humidity: In areas with high humidity (like the Southeast), wood floors tend to absorb moisture from the air.
  
  This can cause them to expand, potentially leading to buckling or cupping (where the edges of the boards rise up).

• Low Humidity: In dry climates (like the Southwest), wood floors tend to lose moisture.
  
  This can cause them to contract, creating gaps between the boards.

Temperature Swings:

Extreme temperature changes can also wreak havoc on wood floors.

Think about those cold winter nights followed by warm, sunny days.

This constant expansion and contraction can stress the wood and lead to problems.

Here’s how climate impacts your flooring choices:

• Wood Species: Some wood species are more resistant to moisture than others.
  
  For example, exotic hardwoods like Brazilian Cherry and Ipe are naturally dense and less prone to moisture absorption.

• Engineered vs.
  
  Solid Wood: As I mentioned earlier, engineered wood is generally more stable than solid wood, making it a better choice for areas with fluctuating humidity levels.

• Acclimation is Crucial: Before you install your wood floor, it needs to acclimate to the local climate.
  
  This means allowing the wood to sit in the room where it will be installed for several days (or even weeks) so it can adjust to the temperature and humidity levels.

How to Mitigate Climate Issues:

• Use a Dehumidifier or Humidifier: Depending on your climate, you may need to use a dehumidifier in the summer or a humidifier in the winter to maintain consistent humidity levels.

• Proper Ventilation: Ensure that your home is well-ventilated to prevent moisture buildup.

• Avoid Installing in Damp Areas: If possible, avoid installing wood floors in areas that are prone to dampness, such as basements or bathrooms.

Pro Tip: Talk to a local flooring expert!

They’ll be familiar with the specific climate challenges in your area and can recommend the best flooring options for your home.

Error 7: Failing to Seek Professional Advice

Okay, I get it.

DIY projects can be fun and rewarding.

But when it comes to installing wood floors over existing floors, it’s often best to leave it to the pros.

I’ve seen so many DIY projects go wrong, and believe me, it’s not worth the headache (or the expense of fixing the mistakes).

Why should you hire a professional?

• Expert Knowledge: Flooring professionals have the knowledge and experience to assess the condition of your existing floor, choose the right type of wood flooring, and install it correctly.

• Proper Tools and Equipment: Installing wood floors requires specialized tools and equipment, which can be expensive to buy or rent.

• Warranty Protection: Many flooring manufacturers require professional installation in order to maintain the warranty.

• Time Savings: Installing wood floors can be a time-consuming and labor-intensive process.
  
  Hiring a professional can save you a lot of time and effort.

• Peace of Mind: Knowing that your floor is being installed by a professional can give you peace of mind and ensure that the job is done right.

When is it okay to DIY?

If you’re an experienced DIYer with a good understanding of wood flooring and construction techniques, you might be able to tackle this project yourself.

However, I would still recommend consulting with a professional before you start to get their advice.

How to find a good flooring contractor:

• Get Referrals: Ask friends, family, or neighbors for referrals to reputable flooring contractors.

• Check Online Reviews: Read online reviews on sites like Yelp, Google, and Angie’s List.

• Get Multiple Quotes: Get quotes from at least three different contractors before making a decision.

• Check for Licensing and Insurance: Make sure that the contractor is licensed and insured.

• Ask for References: Ask the contractor for references from past clients.

Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to ask questions!

A good flooring contractor will be happy to answer your questions and explain the installation process in detail.

Recap and Final Thoughts

Alright, we’ve covered a lot of ground here!

Let’s recap the seven common errors to avoid when installing wood floors over old floors:

1. Not Assessing the Condition of the Existing Floor
2. Ignoring the Height Difference
3. Skipping Underlayment
4. Choosing the Wrong Type of Wood Flooring
5. Inadequate Expansion Gaps
6. Neglecting Local Climate Considerations
7. Failing to Seek Professional Advice

Installing wood floors over existing floors can be a fantastic way to transform your home without the hassle of demolition.

But it’s crucial to be informed and avoid these common mistakes.

Remember, a little planning and preparation can go a long way in ensuring a successful and beautiful flooring project.

And when in doubt, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice!

Happy flooring!

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