Laminate flooring is a top choice for Vancouver homeowners thanks to its durability and affordability. But with the city’s rainy winters and humid summers, proper installation over existing floors is critical to prevent moisture damage and uneven wear. Here’s your guide to doing it right—whether you’re in a Kitsilano heritage home or a North Shore basement suite.
Can You Install Laminate Over Existing Floors? Vancouver Edition
1. Over Hardwood Floors
Yes, if: The hardwood is flat, secure, and free of rot (common in older Fairview homes).
Fix First: Sand uneven boards or use a leveling underlayment like QuietWalk from Flooring Superstores Vancouver.
2. Over Tile Floors
Yes, if: Tiles are firmly adhered and grout lines < 1/8” deep (typical in Yaletown condos).
Pro Tip: Use a DMX 1-STEP Underlayment (sold at Home Depot Vancouver) to cushion and level.
3. Over Carpet
No: Soft carpet causes instability. Remove it first—hire RainCity Floor Care for debris disposal.
4. Over Vinyl/Linoleum
Yes, if: The surface isn’t peeling (common in East Van rentals).
Watch For: Cushioned vinyl—remove it to prevent flexing.
Key Considerations for Vancouver Homes
- Floor Height: Adding laminate raises floors ½”–¾”. Trim doors or use T-Moldings (available at Rona Vancouver) for transitions.
- Moisture: Use vapor barriers in basements or over concrete (try Roberts Super Felt underlayment).
- Subfloor Prep: Level dips with Henry 549 Floor Patch (buy at Lowes Vancouver).
Step-by-Step Installation Guide for Vancouver DIYers
- Prep the Room: Remove baseboards (common in 1920s Kitsilano homes).
- Inspect & Repair: Check for squeaks or rot in heritage floors.
- Install Underlayment: Tape seams with Duck Tape for moisture sealing.
- Acclimate Planks: Let laminate sit 48+ hours in your home’s humidity.
- Lay Laminate: Start along the longest wall; stagger seams 8–12”.
- Trim & Finish: Use a jigsaw for tricky cuts around Vancouver Special staircases.
Benefits of Installing Over Existing Floors
Cost Savings: Skip demo costs (1–3/sq.ft saved).
Eco-Friendly: Reduce landfill waste—key for Vancouver’s Green Plan.
Faster Updates: Perfect for quick condo flips in Burnaby or Richmond.
Potential Drawbacks in Vancouver’s Climate
Moisture Trapping: Humid summers can warp planks if underlayment fails.
Creaking: Uneven subfloors in older Commercial Drive homes may cause noise.
Expert Tips for Vancouver Homeowners
Choose Waterproof Laminate: Opt for Quick-Step Impressive Ultra (available at Flooring Canada Vancouver).
Test Moisture Levels: Use a hygrometer (sold at Canadian Tire) before installing in basements.
Hire a Pro for Complex Jobs: Uneven tiles or heritage floors? Trust West Coast Flooring Solutions.
FAQ: Laminate Over Existing Floors in Vancouver
Q: Can I install laminate over asbestos tile in my East Van home?
A: Yes, but don’t sand or disturb it. Seal with underlayment and consult BC Asbestos Services.
Q: Best underlayment for soundproofing in condos?
A: QuietWalk Premium reduces noise—meets Strata bylaws in Downtown Vancouver.
Q: How to handle floor height mismatches in open-concept homes?
A: Use reducer strips (available at Urban Floors Vancouver) for seamless transitions.
Conclusion
Installing laminate over existing floors can save time and money in Vancouver—if you prep properly. For tricky jobs or heritage homes, trust Saba Flooring’s certified installers.
Need Help? Get a Free Quote or visit our Burnaby showroom. Serving Metro Vancouver, Surrey, Coquitlam & Beyond!
