Can you put wood floor over a ceramic tile floor?

12 years ago

We have 12" ceramic tile floors with wide grout lines in our lake house. We would love to be able to put in wood or engineered wood floors without having to jackhammer the tile from the concrete slab foundation. Is that possible? Has anyone tried it with success?

Featured Answer

PRO

VC Studio Inc.

12 years ago

last modified: 12 years ago

You can use a self leveling cementitious underlayment over the tile.
The tile will need to be scarified, scuffed up, to promote a mechanical bond. Some products will use a primer first.
You can test for MVT (moisture vapor transmission). There are several moisture blocking epoxy products on the market. They will last longer than visqueen and you won't have to worry about punctures.
This will add very little thickness to your existing floor. As little as 1/8". The only additional build would be the wood flooring you choose.

That being said, I would also advise removing the tile first. If there is the possibility of moisture vapor transmission or improper floor prep to start with, then the tile could delaminate at some point.

Regards,
Vincent Cathcart
VC Studio Inc.
vince@vcstudioinc.com

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Comments (7)

PRO
FINNE Architects
12 years ago
We often"float" wood floors over concrete. We place a layer of visqueen, then two layers of half-inch plywood, then the wood floor. The plywood is loose-laid so the floor "floats." I don't see why you couldn't do something similar over tile. But, you are adding 1-3/4" to the floor build-up.
PRO
Riddle Construction & Design
12 years ago
Some people will tell you it is ok to do this but I would not recommend it. You are relying on the adhesion of the tile to the concrete for how your wood floor will perform over time. Shortcuts have a way of coming back to bite you down the road. Most likely you will not have to jackhammer out the tile. We take tile off of concrete all the time and often it pops off easier than you would think, with maybe a few that need extra help. Do yourself a favor and do this project the proper way so your wood floor investment is well spent.
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PRO
Beautiful Space Co
12 years ago
Hi Iriek

If you prefer the look and feel of a glued-down hardwood floor (T&G) then you really should remove the tile and thinset first, for many reasons including issues with adhesion, warranty, and the increased height of the new floor at the doorways, appliances etc. A floating wood floor is certainly an option for you, but doesnt deal with the height issues.

If you do not want to personally remove the tile and thinset, have a demo or general contractor complete the work. it will be well worth it and would typically cost in the $1.50 - $2.50 PSF (including hauling and disposal fees)

Steve
armygirl1987
12 years ago
I have ceramic in my living room and kitchen and plan on removing it. When I asked the tile guy he said no very loudly. I was hoping that he would say yes but he stated that it is not recommended. So for me this will be future job.
PRO
Linda
12 years ago
Removing the old tile and prepping the concrete will only add a small percentage to the total cost. Doing it right eliminates the risk of adhesion problems and likely will extend the life of the floor as well
bryan_mauro
8 years ago
liquid nails...done.