Laminate Flooring FAQs

Installing wood-based laminate flooring requires a suitable subfloor to ensure durability and optimal performance. Here's the NALFA Certified guide on what you can install laminate over, to be sure your new floor is supported correctly and looks fantastic.

Suitable subfloors for laminate:

Ceramic tiles: Install over flat, smooth ceramic tiles after checking for any cracked or loose tiles.

Concrete slab (above grade): Be sure the concrete is fully cured, at least 90 days old, and always use a 6-mil vapor barrier and underlayment padding.

Concrete slab (below grade): Similar requirements as above grade but be vigilant about moisture. Avoid floors with drains as these indicate unsuitable conditions for laminate.

Cork: Use underlayment padding even over existing cork floors.

Hardwood: Viable if the hardwood is stable and flat. Check older floors for warping or damage.

Linoleum and sheet vinyl:  Ensure these floors are level and in good condition. Padding is required.

LVT floor (tiles or planks):  Must be flat and in good condition. Remove any old adhesive if glued down.

Natural stone:  This one’s a Maybe. Yes, but only if the surface is completely smooth and level.

OSB and plywood:  Both are often used in construction and are suitable if they meet flatness standards.

Porcelain tile:  Make sure tiles are flat, level, and in good condition.

Unsuitable subfloors for laminate:

Bamboo and laminate: Existing bamboo or laminate flooring is not a suitable subfloor for new laminate installation.

Brick: Uneven surfaces and potential moisture issues make brick unsuitable.

Carpeting (all types):  Remove all carpeting, padding, and staples to expose the subfloor.

Dirt, outdoor areas, and saltillo tile: Never suitable due to uncontrollable environmental conditions and surface irregularities.