Can you put vinyl flooring over laminate? This is one of the most common questions homeowners ask when planning to refresh their floors without spending a fortune. Picture this: a once-beautiful living room with laminate flooring that now looks dull, scratched, and worn out. The idea of tearing everything apart feels exhausting and expensive. That’s when the thought strikes—why not just lay vinyl flooring over it? But is it really possible, and more importantly, is it worth it?
Rare Home Decor, best indoor flooring company in Dubai has helped countless homeowners successfully transform their spaces with vinyl flooring. Their expert recommendations prove that this is not just possible but also one of the easiest and most cost-effective flooring solutions—if done correctly.
Why Homeowners Want Vinyl Over Laminate
Laminate flooring was once a favorite for its wood-like beauty, but it comes with a few problems. Over time, laminate scratches easily, swells with water, and loses its shine. On the other hand, vinyl plank flooring has taken the spotlight because it’s durable, waterproof, and available in stunning wood and stone designs.
Many homeowners ask, “What flooring can you put over laminate?” and vinyl is always at the top of the list. It offers a quick, affordable makeover and saves the hassle of removing existing flooring.
Rare Home Decor often recommends vinyl over laminate for three reasons: it’s easy to install, cost-effective, and perfect for modern home designs. But they stress that preparation is key to getting flawless results.
Can You Put Vinyl Flooring Over Laminate?
The big question remains—can you put vinyl flooring over laminate? Yes, it’s possible, but only if the laminate is in good condition. Rare Home Decor highlights three important conditions:
- The laminate must be smooth and level. Deep scratches, cracks, or swelling should be repaired first.
- The laminate must be clean and completely dry. Dirt or moisture can affect how well vinyl adheres.
- The subfloor beneath the laminate must be stable. Loose or squeaky boards should be fixed before installation.
Skipping these steps can cause uneven surfaces, peeling, or buckling vinyl later on.
Rare Home Decor Recommendations
Rare Home Decor strongly recommends inspecting the laminate carefully before beginning. They suggest replacing any broken sections, using a moisture barrier in high-moisture areas like kitchens and bathrooms, and choosing high-quality vinyl for long-lasting results. Cheap vinyl might look good initially but wears out quickly in high-traffic areas. They also recommend leaving expansion gaps during installation, especially with floating floors, to allow for natural expansion and contraction.
Best Types of Vinyl to Use Over Laminate
Peel and Stick Vinyl Over Laminate
Peel-and-stick vinyl is one of the easiest DIY-friendly options. It’s affordable and great for low-traffic areas like bedrooms and hallways. However, Rare Home Decor doesn’t recommend peel-and-stick vinyl for bathrooms or kitchens because it may peel away when exposed to water or heat.
Can You Put Floating Floor Over Laminate?
Floating vinyl plank flooring is an excellent option for larger spaces. The planks simply click together without glue, making installation quick and mess-free. Rare Home Decor often recommends floating vinyl for living rooms and dining areas because it’s durable and easy to replace if one plank gets damaged.
Can You Put Vinyl Flooring Over Laminate Kitchen Floors?
Kitchens experience constant foot traffic, spills, and heavy appliances. Vinyl flooring is perfect for kitchens, but Rare Home Decor recommends waterproof vinyl planks combined with a moisture barrier for long-term protection.
Can You Put Vinyl Flooring Over Laminate Bathroom Floors?
Bathrooms are high-moisture areas, so they need extra care. Rare Home Decor advises avoiding peel-and-stick vinyl here. Instead, they recommend using waterproof luxury vinyl plank (LVP) with a proper underlayment to protect against water seepage.
Other Flooring Combinations to Consider
Homeowners often ask about other flooring combinations before deciding on vinyl over laminate. Rare Home Decor shares their insights:
Can You Lay LVP Over Vinyl Flooring?
Yes, luxury vinyl plank (LVP) can be installed over existing vinyl as long as the surface is clean and even.
Can You Put Vinyl Flooring Over Wooden Floorboards?
Vinyl works beautifully over wooden floorboards if they are smooth. Rare Home Decor suggests sanding uneven planks before laying vinyl for the best results.
Can You Install LVP Over Linoleum?
Yes, LVP can go over linoleum if it’s still firmly attached and level.
Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Vinyl Over Laminate
Rare Home Decor believes that preparation is the key to success. Follow these steps for a professional finish.
Step 1 – Inspect and Repair the Laminate
Check for cracks, swelling, or peeling edges. Fix or replace damaged sections before proceeding.
Step 2 – Clean the Surface Thoroughly
Dust, dirt, or grease can prevent vinyl from sticking properly. Sweep and mop thoroughly, then let the laminate dry completely.
Step 3 – Choose the Right Vinyl Type
For quick, budget-friendly projects, peel-and-stick vinyl works well. For long-term durability, floating vinyl plank flooring is the better choice.
Step 4 – Install the Vinyl Flooring
Start laying vinyl from one corner and move across the room. Use spacers to leave small gaps along the walls to allow for expansion.
Real-Life Transformations with Rare Home Decor
One homeowner approached Rare Home Decor with a dull laminate kitchen floor that had scratches from years of use. Instead of replacing it entirely, Rare Home Decor recommended waterproof floating vinyl plank flooring. The new floor transformed the kitchen instantly into a warm, modern space without removing the old laminate.
Another client wanted to upgrade a bathroom without spending too much. Rare Home Decor suggested waterproof LVP installed over laminate, with a moisture barrier underneath. The result was a stunning, spa-like bathroom that looked brand new and stayed perfectly waterproof.
Pros and Cons of Vinyl Over Laminate
Pros
- Quick and simple installation
- Affordable compared to removing old flooring
- Stylish wood and stone-like designs
- Durable and water-resistant if done correctly
Cons
- Not suitable if the laminate is damaged or uneven
- Peel-and-stick vinyl may peel in humid environments
Rare Home Decor recommends professional consultation for high-traffic or moisture-prone spaces to avoid costly mistakes.
Maintenance Tips for Vinyl Over Laminate
Rare Home Decor shares these tips to make vinyl flooring last longer:
- Clean regularly with a damp mop and mild cleaner
- Avoid dragging heavy furniture to prevent scratches
- Use rugs in high-traffic areas
- Wipe spills immediately to prevent moisture seeping under the vinyl
FAQs
Can you put vinyl flooring over laminate in every room?
Yes, but kitchens and bathrooms need waterproof vinyl and proper moisture protection.
Does vinyl flooring damage laminate underneath?
No, if installed correctly. Moisture protection is important to prevent damage.
How long does vinyl over laminate last?
High-quality vinyl flooring can last 10–20 years with proper care.
Can you remove vinyl later without damaging laminate?
Yes, floating vinyl floors can be removed easily without damaging the laminate.
Final Thoughts
So, can you put vinyl flooring over laminate? Absolutely, as long as the laminate is in good condition and properly prepared. Whether it’s for a cozy living room, a busy kitchen, or a moisture-prone bathroom, vinyl plank flooring offers a stylish and affordable upgrade.
Rare Home Decor strongly recommends checking the laminate condition, choosing the right vinyl type, and following proper installation steps. When done correctly, even the dullest laminate can be transformed into a stunning modern floor that lasts for years.
