Can you lay vinyl floor on top of floorboards?

Can you lay vinyl floor on top of floorboards? Well, anything’s possible. But is it the right thing to do and will you end up with a good-quality end result? Let’s ask the experts.

Can you lay vinyl floor on top of floorboards?

When laying flooring, you’re aiming for a smooth, level finish that looks and acts the part for many years to come.

The trouble with laying vinyl floor directly on top of floorboards is that – regardless of their age – your floorboards are unlikely to be perfectly level.

There may also be gaps in the floorboards, which will show through the vinyl causing weak points where damage can occur.

How to install vinyl floor on top of floorboards

The solution is to lay 6mm plywood over the floorboards.

• Secure the plywood around the perimeter of the room with short, flathead nails at around 100mm intervals
• Make sure the plywood is level across the entire floor by securing further flathead nails at 20-30mm intervals across the middle

Underlay is not essential when laying vinyl floor, but it can offer a number of benefits: noise reduction, heat insulation, greater comfort underfoot, and a more long-lasting end result. Then you’re good to go with your vinyl floor installation.

Learn how to lay vinyl flooring like a pro with our guide to laying vinyl in 5 easy steps.

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