There are a few potential reasons why someone might consider installing hardwood floors over their existing floors:
- Cost: Installing hardwood floors over existing floors can save money on demo and disposal costs.
- Convenience: If you already have hardwood floors, you can avoid having to live somewhere else during the installation process.
- Time: You’ll save time on the installation process since you’ll skip the floor prep phase.
However, there are potential downsides to this method as well.
The Drawbacks of Installing Hardwood Floors Over Existing Floors
Height Restrictions: In some cases, installing hardwood floors over existing floors can cause the new floor to be taller than the existing floor. This can cause issues with doorways, and baseboards and may even require adjustments to furniture.
- Stability: The new flooring will only be as stable as the floor it’s being installed over. So if the existing floor is damaged or uneven, it could cause issues with the new flooring as well.
- Sound: Adding a new layer of flooring over an existing floor can impact sound quality. This can result in more sound transmission to the room below or more noise within the room itself.
- Moisture: If moisture is trapped between the two layers of flooring, it can cause mold and mildew to grow.
Considerations Before Installing Hardwood Floors Over Existing Floors
Before you decide to install hardwood floors over existing hardwood floors, there are a few things to consider.
- Condition of existing floor: If the existing floor is damaged, has missing boards, or is uneven, it’s best to remove it before installing new hardwood floors.
- Height difference: Measure the height of the existing floor and determine how much height the new flooring will add. If it exceeds ¾ inch, it will likely cause issues with doorways and baseboards.
- Type of hardwood: The type of hardwood you’ll be installing over the existing floor is essential. You’ll want to make sure it’s compatible with the existing floor’s thickness, density, and substrate.
- Moisture: It’s crucial to ensure that there is no moisture present between the two layers of hardwood flooring. This can cause mold and mildew to grow.
- Sound: If the sound transmission is a concern, consider adding a material like cork or a sound-dampening underlayment underneath the new flooring.
Installation Process for Installing Hardwood Floors Over Existing Floors
If you’ve determined that installing hardwood floors over your existing hardwood floors is the right choice for you, here’s the installation process you can expect.
Clean and Prepare Existing Floor: The first step in the installation process is to ensure the existing floor is clean and free of debris. Remove any nails or staples, and patch any damaged areas. The floor must be smooth and level.
Install Moisture Barrier: A moisture barrier will help prevent moisture from getting trapped between the two layers of flooring. This is especially important if you’re installing over a concrete subfloor.
Install New Flooring: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to install the new hardwood flooring. This may include using a specific adhesive or nailing pattern.
Finish and Seal: Once the flooring is installed, it’s time to finish and seal it. This will provide protection from scratches, stains, and wear and tear.
Installing hardwood floors over existing hardwood floors is possible, but it’s not always the best option. It’s essential to consider factors like the condition of the existing floor, the difference in height, the type of hardwood, moisture, and sound transmission before making a decision.
If you do decide to move forward with the installation, it’s crucial to follow the proper steps to ensure a successful installation. At the end of the day, it’s always best to consult with a professional to determine the best course of action for your specific situation.
