Most installers and builders recommend not installing laminate flooring over carpet as there are too many variables that can create a mess.
Installing laminate flooring over carpet padding.
Installing laminate flooring over carpet is not recommended in most installation situations.
Laying underlayment over an existing flooring.
Vapor barriers and laminate flooring underlayment.
You can install laminate flooring over carpet though generally not recommended.
Installing a vapor barrier over this can cause moisture to become trapped within the material leading to the growth of mold or warping in the material.
Installing laminate flooring over carpet underlayment will do more harm than good in the long run.
Put simply carpet underlayment is too thick.
How to install floating floors over carpet.
A breathable foam type underlayment is generally used when installing laminate flooring over plywood or osb subfloors.
Utility knife to cut vinyl planks ruler.
Carpet its padding and all its staples must be completely removed down to the subfloor before you install laminate flooring.
Carpeting commercial or needle bond.
Adding another vapor barrier is an extra level of protection.
When it comes to installing a new flooring material you sometimes have the option of installing the underlayment for your new floor directly on top.
Tile cutter or table saw to cut vinyl or laminate planks plywood optional for high pile carpet.
If your installation is over concrete we recommend a 6 mil poly vapor barrier even if the underlayment you are installing already has a vapor barrier attached.
Carpet removal from house of humble blog why can t i use carpet underlayment.
Before you begin make sure you have the necessary tools for installing your floor.
You may be able to successfully install your laminate floor over carpeting as long as it is less than one quarter inch thick is set on suspended wood sub floor and is fully adhered.
Most laminate flooring underlayment is 1mm to 3mm thick.
Some types and styles of commercial or indoor outdoor carpeting may look harmless but it and any adhesive used to glue it down must be removed before installing a laminate floor.
In most cases you will not want to use a vapor barrier type underlayment when installing laminates on a standard plywood subfloor because wood is a natural material that needs to breathe.