Vinyl plank flooring is impermeable, incredibly adaptable, and opulent. For individuals searching for an affordable and long-lasting substitute for wood flooring, this flooring option is a must. However, what happens if your floor is already tiled?
It’s not very pleasant when you have to break up tiles, and getting professionals to do it for you isn’t exactly an economical choice. If you could simply install vinyl plank flooring over the current tiles, wouldn’t that be the easiest option? Should I remove ceramic tile before installing vinyl plank flooring?
Should I Remove Ceramic Tile Before Installing Vinyl Plank Flooring: All You Need To Know
Vinyl flooring is becoming more and more well-liked as an inexpensive flooring option for houses all around the country. It is not only reasonably priced but also long-lasting and available in a variety of styles. For instance, vinyl squares that imitate the appearance of real stone or other materials are an option, as are planks that make a fantastic substitute for hardwood floors. These factors choose to install vinyl flooring logically simple. However, the amount of maintenance you must give the old tile floor will determine how much it will cost overall and how long your project will take.
Should I remove ceramic tile before installing vinyl plank flooring? The good news is that installing vinyl plank flooring won’t need removing the ceramic tile. Just ensure that before installing the vinyl plank flooring, there are no gaps or cracks in the ceramic tiles.
A subfloor needs to be flawlessly smooth before you can install vinyl flooring on it. Unfortunately, bumps and holes from removing the tile and grout might affect the final quality of your vinyl flooring installation process. In other words, you can end up with more work than you paid for if you try to remove the tile. Alternatively, you can just prepare the surface before installing your vinyl flooring over ceramic tile.
Vinyl Plank Flooring Installation Process Over Ceramic Tiles
Step #1: Make Sure Your Tile Is Prepped
Make sure your tiles are prepped and ready for installation before moving forward. Your tiles need to be as smooth as they can be to fit this quick restoration. Since vinyl plank flooring is composed of synthetic material, it will ultimately collapse into textured, uneven, or lumpy tiles, giving the impression that the floor is not smooth.
Step #2: Prepare The Subfloor
Since vinyl plank flooring hugs the subflooring and highlights any ridges or imperfections, it is best to install it on a smooth surface. Hence, you have to make sure that the grout lines are parallel to the tile. By doing this, the vinyl will not be able to sink into them, leaving you with a structure of visible lines. You don’t have to bother about this step if your grout is naturally at the same level as the tiles.
If not, there are a few methods you can use to level the grout lines. One method is to use mortar to fill in the grout lines and smooth them out as much as you can. Tape over grout lines and add an underlayment on top of the subflooring for a less permanent way to get a similar effect.
Step #3: Apply Adhesive
This is a rather simple step in the process. Use a paint roller to apply pressure-sensitive adhesive over your subflooring. If not, a standard application trowel will work just fine. Be mindful to evenly and sufficiently cover every area of the floor.
Step #4: Install The Vinyl Plank Flooring
One by one, install vinyl planks, top to tail, on your now-prepped and flat surface. As you work, begin at the outside corners of the space and work your way inside.
Your new floor can be used once the entire space has been finished.
Tips For Maintaining High-End Vinyl Plank Flooring Over Ceramic Tiles
While spills should be spot-cleaned right away with a mild soap and water solution to avoid discoloration or staining, regular vacuuming can also remove particles and dirt from the flooring’s surface. Vinyl floors should also not be cleaned with abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals as this might damage the flooring.
When installing vinyl flooring over pre-existing tiles, vacuuming regularly is one of the best ways to maintain its optimal condition. It is best to use a high-quality vacuum cleaner that is made especially for use on hard surfaces like this kind of flooring. This will guarantee the prompt and effective removal of all particles and dirt without causing any adverse effects on the material itself. Ideally, vacuuming should be done more frequently than once a week, particularly in areas of the house where there is a lot of foot traffic or where there are dogs.
Always wipe up spills right away using a mild soap and water solution to prevent stains or discolorations from setting in and affecting the material. If the stains are stubborn, you might need to use a specialty cleaner made especially for vinyl floors. Just be careful not to use any abrasive or harsh chemicals, as these could eventually harm the finish of your flooring.
Lastly, remember to keep up with routine maintenance. For example, use a soft brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner to remove dust from cracks and gaps once every few weeks.
Final Thought
For covering floor tiles in every room of your house, vinyl plank flooring offers a strong and stylish option.
Should I remove ceramic tile before installing vinyl plank flooring? It is not necessary for you to. Installing vinyl plank flooring over ceramic floor tiles is a terrific method to refresh the appearance of your house without having to deal with the inconvenience and cost of replacing them. You can have gorgeous flooring for many years to come with the right method, preparation, installation, and cleaning.
