Can I install prefinished hardwood over existing hardwood?

9/25/2015 at 2:17:47 PM

Hi there, this is Jeannie from Floors Direct North in Newmarket and Thornhill.

Installing over existing hardwood depends on the quality of the existing floor but it's most definitely doable! If you are sure the existing hardwood is in good condition and not loose anywhere, yes you can. One of the factors you have to consider though is height because of your doors etc. Most doors can be cut down of course so usually it's not an proble. The biggest recommendation is to use an engineered hardwood of 3/8 or 1/2". We've done many such installations and the floor is solid and the customer happy as they don't have the expense of lifting the old floor.

Kind regards and good luck,

Jeannie

9/26/2015 at 7:20:54 PM

You can install new hardwood over old. Be sure that it's in good condition structurley and fill in any missing areas with levelers.An old strip hardwood floor can act as a premium sub floor and holds the nails/staples securely thus giving a nice tight installation. Minimizing any future squeaks etc.

9/27/2015 at 4:18:59 PM

Yes you can. Like the others said just make sure the existing floor is solid with no squeaks.

10/3/2015 at 12:16:20 PM

Les,

It is possible to install onto existing flooring. Various items to consider prior to install are height difference it may cause:

Exterior doors, interior doors, stair riser heights, nosings,etc.

You would also want to ensure the existing floor is secure to the subfloor.

10/5/2015 at 9:58:06 AM

Yes you can, if you consider door heights and trims, cabinets and closet doors, toilets tubs etc beforehand, lost room height being the main disadvantage.

10/5/2015 at 10:00:30 AM

Hi. This is Leo from The A team Renovation.

Regarding the old hardwood floor and you need to install new one on the top ...YES you can ..but depend on the condition the existing Hardwood floor ( levelling, squeaky, noise ) and it has to take off all nails & staples after carpet take off. Also most doors can be cut.

My best regards.

10/30/2015 at 11:20:09 AM

Les, as a certified expert in this field it is never a good idea to install hardwood over hardwood. This can lead to serious imbalances in the moisture equilibrium within the flooring(s). You can do this yes but there WILL be problems later. Think about it. You need to install hardwood to structure not another finish.