One of the most common questions we receive is; can I install hybrid flooring over my tiles?
The short answer is; usually. In almost all cases, if the tiles are in good condition it is possible to install hybrid flooring over the top. The question is more so, what needs to be done to tiles before installing hybrid flooring over them.
Most tiled floors will require some floor preparation prior to installation of hybrid. How much floor prep is required depends on a few factors, such as the grout lines, and how level the surface is overall. Your tiles will ultimately be acting as the sub-floor for your hybrid, so the more level, the better.
Some older tiled floors have quite wide, and sometimes deep grout lines. These need to be filled using a levelling compound prior to installation of the hybrid. Rectified-edge tiles usually have grout lines that are around 1-2mm wide and 1mm deep, and in these cases, provided the floor is level, the prep is very minimal. A light skim coat can be enough.
Big dips or valleys need to be flood-filled with levelling compounds. The hybrid boards have a flexibility, and although they are a floating floor, they cannot float over any sections of subfloor that are lower than the rest of the subfloor. Opting for a laminate, or more rigid board isn’t the answer here either, as you run the risk of the boards cracking.
Sections that sit higher, such as humps or bumps in the tiles need to be handled as well, and in extreme cases can be a deal-breaker. These cases are rare, and usually only found in tiled floors that were installed by someone unqualified for the job.
When shouldn't I install a hybrid over tiles?
If the tiles are loose, cracking, drummy, or poorly installed in general, you should consider pulling them up and starting again on the slab underneath. The Fayse Flooring team can advise on whether or not your tiles are in a condition that is good enough to install over, or whether they need to be removed.
Avoiding the uplift of tiles is a massive bonus in the scheme of your project. Tile uplift is loud, dusty and very heavy duty work. It’s very beneficial being able to install over the top, and will save time and money, or a lot of hard work for those who would opt to take the tiles up themselves.
Hybrid flooring is easily the standout option for those wanting to install a floor over the top of tiles. If you’d like to get a quote for hybrid flooring over tiles in your Queensland property, reach out to us so we can organise a free measure and quote. It will also give us the opportunity to inspect your tiles, and advise on the best course of action before you commit to anything.
Fayse Flooring provides premium hybrid flooring to Moreton Bay, Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast, at a price-point that most retailers cannot compete with. Use the button below to contact us and arrange a quote.
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