A client has asked me to install hardwood over an existing linoleum floor after I told them that removing the linoleum and preparing the surface would probably take me two days. I can’t think of any reason not to do it, but am worried. Anyone have any advice?
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You probably could...but I'd avoid it myself.
Is it true linoleum? Or a vinyl flooring? I've seen some of those floorings curl nasty. Not sure a hardwood on top would stop it. Also, whichever it is likely reacts differently to changes in humidity than will the flooring.
Certainly wouldn't warrentee the job. Telling them so is usually all it takes to convince them to spend the extra money and time to do the job right, and give you both piece of mind.
J. D. Reynolds
Home Improvements
just be sure the linoeum and substrate are not soft enough so the hardwood nails can work themselves loose. a lot of times in an old house there will be several layers of linoleum and that can be quite soft. your call.
also beware some of the older sheet floorings contain asbestos
think about a floating "pergola" type floor
You'd want to make sure it wasn't a particle board underlayment beneath the linoleum. If it is, definitely not, particle board doesn't hold the nails.
Next week I'm repairing a pre- finished hardwood floor laid on linoleum.
About 30 sq ft and I'll have to weave the new into the old.
Dishwasher had a small leak on the dump cycle. Water had nowhere to go and remained on top of lino, saturating the wood.
It looks really bad, cupping, shrinkage.
I told the customers finding black mold and damage to the subfloor would double my initial estimate.
I hope I don't find it.
Gord
It would depend on what was under the lino. If it is a thick 1/2" or more layer of plywood or a tongue and groove layer of flooring, you should be fine. If it is particleboard or a mish mash of 1/4" luaun and multiple layers of lino and vinyl tile, you should strip it.