Can You Put Laminate Flooring Over Floorboards

Can You Put Laminate Flooring Over Floorboards?

Laminate flooring is a popular choice for homeowners who want the look of hardwood floors without the high cost. It is also a good option for DIYers, as it is relatively easy to install. However, one question that often arises is whether you can put laminate flooring over floorboards.

The answer is yes, you can put laminate flooring over floorboards, but there are a few things you need to do first.

Make sure the floorboards are level. If the floorboards are not level, the laminate flooring will not be able to lay flat and could buckle or crack.
Install a moisture barrier. A moisture barrier will help to protect the laminate flooring from moisture damage.
Install an underlayment. An underlayment will help to cushion the laminate flooring and reduce noise.

Once you have completed these steps, you can begin installing the laminate flooring.

Installing Laminate Flooring Over Floorboards

To install laminate flooring over floorboards, you will need the following tools and materials:

Laminate flooring
Moisture barrier
Underlayment
Tape measure
Chalk line
Saw
Hammer
Nail set

Once you have gathered your tools and materials, you can follow these steps to install the laminate flooring:

Measure the room. Determine the length and width of the room, and then calculate the square footage.
Purchase the laminate flooring. Purchase enough laminate flooring to cover the square footage of the room.
Install the moisture barrier. Unroll the moisture barrier over the floorboards and tape the seams together.
Install the underlayment. Unroll the underlayment over the moisture barrier and tape the seams together.
Install the laminate flooring. Start in one corner of the room and work your way outwards. Tap the planks together until they are snug but not forced.
Trim the planks. Use a saw to trim the planks to fit around the edges of the room.
Install the molding. Install molding around the edges of the room to cover the gaps between the laminate flooring and the walls.