Can You Install Flooring Over Existing Floors? Yes—And Here’s How We Do It Right

Renovating your home and wondering if you can install your new floors right over the old ones? The good news: yes, you can—if it’s done properly.

At Simpson Built Flooring Solutions & Finish Carpentry, we specialize in high-performance flooring installs that save time, reduce mess, and respect your budget. One of the most common questions we get is:

“Can you install engineered hardwood or vinyl over tile, hardwood, or other existing flooring?”

Short answer: Yes—with the right prep and products.

Why Consider Installing Over Existing Flooring?

Ripping out an old floor isn’t always necessary. In fact, in many cases, it can be more cost-effective and efficient to install over it—especially if it’s flat, dry, and securely in place.

Here are the top reasons clients choose this method:

• 💰 Save money on demolition and disposal

• 🧹 Avoid the dust, noise, and mess

• 🕒 Faster installation turnaround

• 🌡 Added insulation and sound buffering

But the key to making it work? Using the right products and professional techniques to ensure your new floor lasts.

Our Trusted System: Bona R540 & Bona Silane-Based Adhesive

We use a two-part Bona system specifically engineered for this type of install:

🛡 Bona R540 Vapor Barrier & Primer

• Creates a protective seal against moisture—essential when installing over tile, hardwood, or concrete

• Helps adhesives bond better to tricky surfaces

• Reduces the risk of moisture-related failures

✅ Bona Silane-Based Adhesive

• Strong, flexible bond that holds engineered hardwood tight

• Absorbs natural expansion/contraction over time

• Helps eliminate hollow spots and movement

• Meets industry standards for sound and performance

Together, these products allow us to safely and securely install your new flooring over a wide range of existing surfaces.

What Types of Floors Can We Install Over?

With our Bona system and expert prep, we can install over:

• ✅ Tile (if flat and well-bonded)

• ✅ Solid or engineered hardwood

• ✅ Glued-down vinyl or laminate

• ✅ Concrete slabs

Note: We do not recommend installing over floating, cushioned, or soft floor types. Your existing floor must be flat, clean, dry, and fully secured.

What to Consider Before Choosing This Method

Installing over existing flooring isn’t for every situation. We carefully assess each site to check for:

• Proper flatness and stability

• Moisture conditions

• Height transitions (to doors, stairs, etc.)

• Sound transmission between floors

• Compatibility with radiant heating systems (if applicable)

When all factors check out, this method becomes a smart, efficient alternative that delivers beautiful results without a full tear-out.

Final Thoughts: Quality Without Compromise

If you’re working within a budget or on a tight timeline, direct installation over existing floors can be the perfect solution. But it’s not about cutting corners—it’s about using high-end, industry-approved products and expert-level installation techniques to get the job done right.

With our proven Bona installation system, we ensure your new floors are not just beautiful—but built to last.

📞 Ready to upgrade without the demo?

We offer free assessments to see if your home qualifies for this installation method. Contact us today or book a consultation—we’ll give you honest advice and a quote that works for your space and your budget.

👉 info@simpsonbuilt.ca or call 289-356-7553

👉 Follow us on Instagram for behind-the-scenes installs and client transformations! @simpsonbuiltflooringsolutions