In many cases, luxury vinyl flooring can be installed directly over existing flooring, provided the surface is flat, stable, and properly adhered. The existing floor essentially becomes part of your subfloor system.
Ceramic tile, well-maintained hardwood, and existing vinyl can often serve as suitable bases for new vinyl plank flooring installation. However, carpet and cushioned vinyl typically require removal because they’re too soft and will cause the new flooring to flex and potentially fail at the seams.
The critical factor is achieving flatness within industry standards—typically 3/16″ variation over an 8-foot span. Any high spots, loose sections, or damaged areas need correction before installation. This evaluation is included in every free consultation.