If the conditions and materials are right however you can avoid this difficult job by installing new flooring over the existing linoleum.
Installing flooring over linoleum.
This isn t possible with every flooring material but it s often possible to install ceramic porcelain or stone tile over resilient flooring including standard sheet vinyl vinyl tile or linoleum.
So where feasible it makes sense to install the new flooring directly over the old without removing the old flooring.
If the linoleum is in good shape.
Your floor needs to be flat and level for the best vinyl flooring.
The main caveat is that all vinyl formats call for a smooth subfloor including sheet vinyl vinyl tile and luxury vinyl planks and tiles.
In some cases vinyl flooring can be installed over an existing floor.
Linoleum or vinyl flooring.
If you can t remove your old linoleum floors due to asbestos or other problems consider laying a new tile right on top.
These flooring materials widely used for their affordability water tightness and durability are generally installed by securing them over an existing floor or subfloor with strong adhesive.
This is best left to professionals unless you have experience.
Sheet vinyl can be laid over old linoleum or vinyl flooring if the existing floor is in good condition.
You ll need to cut the linoleum tiles to fit and use their own adhesive or material with adhesive backing to attach them to your floor securely.
How to install vinyl floors over linoleum.
Laying linoleum over linoleum is possible with the right preparation.
If the old floor has a rough texture or some indentations use a coat of embossing leveler.
Removal of old flooring.
Sanding and leveling your floor.
Underlayment isn t needed if the existing linoleum is flat and smooth.
If the grout lines in the ceramic tile are deep you ll see and feel them under sheet flooring and if you choose to install preglued vinyl tiles they won t stick.
Applied with a straightedge trowel the embosser will create a smooth surface to support the new floor.
In other situations you ll need to remove the old floor before work can begin.