Can I Install Luxury Vinyl Plank Over Hardwood Floors?

Well-preserved hardwood floors can do great things for a property's value, but that doesn't change the fact that they can be a high-maintenance nightmare. Vinyl, on the other hand, is infinitely easier to take care of. It's just as well, then, that it can be installed on top of hardwood floors. Best of all: you don't even need to damage the hardwood in the process.  

Whatever it is that's driving you to want luxury vinyl plank over traditional hardwood flooring, the really great thing is installing it doesn't need to take much effort. In fact, from vinyl planks that come with their own adhesive to floating planks that really only have to be clipped together, this flooring option is as easy as can be. The installation itself isn't the only thing that makes this flooring option so user-friendly, though. These planks can be laid directly over your existing hardwood floors. 

You read that right: installing luxury vinyl planks is as easy as popping them right on top of what you already have, without even removing the original flooring. Granted, there are a few things to keep in mind before doing so. And, if you want to preserve the hardwood, there's a specific type of vinyl plank to look out for. 

The first step to laying those planks down on top of hardwood is ensuring the hardwood itself is in decent shape. However, consider it the last time you'll need to worry about it, at least for the next several years. Check the hardwood for any damage, restore if and where necessary, sand down any uneven spots, and give it a sweep. From there, your hardwood is prepped. 

One thing you'll definitely want to keep in mind when installing vinyl planks over the hardwood is that the type of planks you use will dictate whether you'll do any damage to the original flooring. Floating planks, which click together, are undoubtedly the best option if you think you may reconsider the hardwood a few years down the line, or are considering making a move. Simply remove them, and move right along. What's more, with floating planks, you can add in an underlayment to make the vinyl more comfortable, and even prevent moisture damage. 

Alternatively, if you aren't worried about preserving the hardwood, stick and peel options are another option. And, while there is a greater likelihood of damage, that isn't guaranteed. These ones are fairly readily available and cost just over $80 for 36 planks on Amazon. Switching up flooring has never been easier.