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Can You Put Laminate Flooring Over Carpet? Here's Why Experts Advise Against It
Keep your renovation investment on solid ground
Photo: Westend61 / Westend61 / Getty Images
Photo: Westend61 / Westend61 / Getty Images
Highlights
It’s not ideal to lay laminate over carpeting due to the lack of support and other risks.
Allergens can get trapped under the laminate, and there’s a risk of mold and mildew growth.
If you have to lay carpet over laminate, it’s better if the carpet is low pile rather than high pile.
Temporary floating floors may be installed over carpet if you use a solid underlayment.
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A question many homeowners ask when considering a quick and painless flooring renovation is, “Can you put laminate flooring over carpet?” While it might seem like a convenient shortcut to avoid the hassle and cost of carpet removal, the practice is not recommended. Let’s explore the risks associated with putting laminate flooring over carpet and explore why it's best to opt for proper installation methods.
Risks of Putting Laminate Flooring Over Carpet
Installing laminate flooring over carpet might seem appealing for several reasons. For example, it can save time and money by avoiding the labor-intensive process of carpet removal. Preserving the existing carpet might also be desirable for renters or those who want to maintain the original carpet flooring for various other reasons.
However, despite these perceived benefits, there are significant risks associated with the practice of laying laminate over carpet. You can talk to a local pro about risks specific to your space, but here are the biggest reasons why you shouldn’t put laminate flooring over carpet.
Inadequate Support of Laminate
One of the primary concerns when laying laminate flooring over carpet is the lack of adequate support. High-pile carpet, in particular, can create an uneven surface beneath the laminate planks. Over time, this unevenness can lead to warped or damaged laminate, compromising the integrity and aesthetics of the flooring. Loose laminate planks can also pose significant tripping risks.
Trapped Allergens
Another issue with placing laminate over carpet is the potential for trapped allergens. Dust, dirt, debris, and mites are often embedded in the carpet, and they can become trapped beneath the laminate surface. For those who are sensitive to allergens, this can exacerbate respiratory issues and lead to discomfort or health problems.
Mold and Mildew
Moisture is a significant concern when installing laminate flooring over carpet. Any moisture present in the carpet will be trapped underneath the laminate, allowing for rampant mold and mildew growth in the carpet. Besides posing health risks, mold and mildew can also cause unpleasant odors and damage to the flooring materials over time.
Can You Put Laminate Flooring Over Low-Pile Carpet?
While laying laminate over low-pile carpet presents fewer challenges than laying it over high-pile carpet, flooring pros still don’t recommend it. It’s true that low-pile carpet provides a more even surface, and it's easier to clean and dry thoroughly before laying the laminate. However, despite these advantages, it's always best to remove the carpet before installing laminate flooring to ensure a stable and long-lasting result.
How to Install Temporary Laminate Floors Over Carpet
For those seeking a temporary flooring solution, you can install floating laminate floors over carpet. However, this method requires careful planning and execution to prevent shifting and unlocking of the planks.
One effective approach is to place a solid surface, such as a sheet of plywood, between the carpet and laminate planks. This provides stability and prevents movement, ensuring a secure installation. You should reach out to a pro if this is an option you’re considering, as installation can be deceptively tricky.
What Flooring Can You Lay Over Carpet?
Photo: John Keeble / Moment / Getty Images
If you're looking to update your flooring without removing the existing carpet, there are several options to consider. These are all suitable choices for installation over carpet.
Vinyl plank flooring
Sheet Flooring
Carpet tiles
Interlocking foam tiles
Area rugs
These options provide durability, ease of installation, and versatility, making them ideal for various applications.
Can You Put Carpet Over Laminate Flooring?
Just as experts warn against installing laminate over carpet, they also do not recommend laying carpet over existing laminate. The biggest issue is that carpet can damage the laminate material underneath. This may result in you needing to pay for laminate floor repair costs or having to replace the laminate altogether if you decide you want to remove the carpet in the future. That’s why we recommend avoiding this practice and exploring alternative flooring options.
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