Can you install laminate flooring over carpet?

Planning property renovations and wondering if you can install laminate flooring over carpet? Here, we tackle this topic in detail.

People laying laminate flooring in Wrexham and parts of the UK understandably want to make the installation as simple as possible, but taking short cuts like leaving carpet in place can lead to larger headaches. Read on for reasons why experts never advise installing laminate flooring over carpet and the steps you should take instead.

Why you can't install laminate over carpet

To provide stability, laminate flooring needs a firm and flat surface. Regardless of how thin a carpet is, the way it changes shape under pressure means it cannot provide sufficient support for a laminate installation. With different levels of wearing after prolonged use, carpets present also prevent an uneven surface that makes laying flooring effectively an impossible task. When installers attempt to put laminate over carpet, the result is an unstable floor that feels spongey to walk on.

Laminate floor planks typically connect using a tongue and groove or click-lock system. To interlace efficiently they must be fitted on a flat surface, so adding laminate over uneven carpet can see locking systems become damaged as planks shift and bend.

For home health, laminate of carpet is a poor choice. Moisture and allergens can build up in the carpet beneath the flooring and lead to unpleasant odours that rise through gaps between planks, impacting air quality.

What to do instead of laying laminate over carpet

The first task is to remove the old carpet completely. After clearing the room of furniture, cut and roll back the carpet and dispose of it properly. Assess the condition of the subfloor beneath the carpet to ensure it is fit for purpose. If there are any issues like excess moisture or damaged flooring, make sure you resolve them. Ensure that your subfloor is completely stable and level before you start installing laminate. Professional fitters usually add an underlay before installing laminate planks. This guarantees a flat and robust surface for flooring, but also adds a slight cushioning effect that can dampen noise and improve physical comfort underfoot when in use.

By following this approach instead of fitting laminate directly over carpet, your flooring installation will last far longer and protect your investment in a high-quality floor finish.