Can You Put Laminate Wood Flooring Over Carpet

Can You Put Laminate Wood Flooring Over Carpet?

Laminate wood flooring has become increasingly popular due to its durability, affordability, and resemblance to real hardwood. While laminate flooring can be installed over various subfloors like concrete and plywood, it's crucial to determine if you can install it over carpet.

Generally, it's not recommended to install laminate wood flooring over carpet. Carpet is a soft and uneven surface, which can cause the laminate planks to buckle, crack, or warp over time. Moreover, the carpet's cushion and padding can interfere with the laminate's ability to adhere properly to the subfloor, leading to an unstable and uneven installation.

However, there are a few instances where it might be possible to install laminate wood flooring over carpet:

Extremely short carpet pile: If the carpet has an exceptionally short pile, such as a Berber carpet, it may be possible to install laminate flooring over it. However, it's still advisable to remove the carpet for optimal results.
Thin and tightly stretched carpet: If the carpet is very thin and tightly stretched over a firm subfloor, it might be stable enough to support laminate flooring. However, it's crucial to ensure that the carpet is completely adhered to the subfloor and doesn't move or shift.
Carpet on a stable subfloor: If the carpet is installed over a solid and level subfloor, such as concrete or plywood, it may be possible to install laminate flooring over it. The subfloor should be in excellent condition, free from any irregularities or damage.

If you're considering installing laminate wood flooring over carpet, it's essential to carefully assess the condition of the carpet and subfloor. If there are any doubts or uncertainties, it's highly recommended to remove the carpet completely and install the laminate flooring directly over the subfloor. This will ensure a stable and long-lasting installation.