How to Install Flooring Over Carpet
- 1). Measure the carpet to make sure it is no more than 1/4-inch thick, and it is fully adhered to the subflooring. If the carpet is any thicker, you risk having it add "bounce" to the laminate floor. Any movement in the floor puts the heavy furniture at risk for toppling over.
- 2). Make sure your subfloor is structurally sound, and that there's no warping. Run a long level across your floor to insure that it's even, and there are no unexpected dips or bubbles.
- 3). Check the warranty on your flooring. Some laminate manufacturers will void their warranties if you lay their flooring down on carpet, but others, such as Armstrong, permit it. Since most laminates are guaranteed for 15 to 25 years, you don't want to risk that warranty.
- 4). Clean the carpet thoroughly, then lay moisture-barrier sheeting over the carpet. You don't need to tape down the seams of the sheeting. Now start installing your new laminate flooring according to directions, and get ready to have a brand new floor with minimal preparation time.
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