Can you lay wood flooring over carpet padding?

Laying wood flooring directly over carpet padding is not recommended, as it can cause several issues that can compromise the integrity and aesthetics of the wood floor. To install wood flooring properly and ensure its longevity, a solid, stable, and level surface is crucial. Carpet padding, however, is not designed to provide the necessary stability, and layering wood flooring directly on it can result in uneven, noisy, and bouncy floors.

Potential Problems

1. Uneven Surface: Carpet padding can create an uneven underlying surface for wood flooring. As a result, the wood boards may warp, crack, or develop gaps over time due to inconsistent support.
2. Noise: Carpet padding tends to compress underfoot, creating a cushioning effect that can make wood flooring more susceptible to creaking and squeaking sounds. This can be highly disruptive, especially in high-traffic areas.
3. Bouncy Floors: Carpet padding’s inherent softness can cause the wood flooring to feel bouncy or spongy, which is not ideal for a solid and stable walking surface.
4. Moisture Retention: Carpet padding can trap moisture, leading to potential mold and mildew growth. This moisture buildup can seep into the wood flooring, causing damage and compromising its structural integrity.

Alternative Solutions

While laying wood flooring directly over carpet padding is not recommended, there are alternative solutions that can achieve the desired results:

1. Remove the Carpet: The most effective and recommended solution is to remove the carpet and padding completely before installing wood flooring. This ensures a solid, level base and avoids potential issues associated with carpet padding.
2. Install a Subfloor: If removing the carpet is not an option, another solution is to install a subfloor over the carpet and padding. A subfloor provides a stable and level surface for securing the wood flooring. It helps eliminate the risks of an uneven surface, noise, and bouncy floors. However, keep in mind that this will raise your floor level, which might affect door clearances and transitions to adjacent rooms.
3. Seek Professional Advice: Consulting with a professional flooring contractor or installer is crucial before making any decisions. They can assess the condition of the existing carpet and padding, evaluate the feasibility of installation, and provide expert advice and recommendations specific to your situation.

While laying wood flooring over carpet padding is not recommended due to potential problems such as an uneven surface, noise, and bouncy floors, there are alternative solutions to achieve a successful wood flooring installation. Completely removing the carpet and padding or installing a subfloor are reliable approaches that eliminate risks and ensure a solid, level surface for installing wood flooring. Seeking professional guidance is essential to make informed decisions and ensure a smooth and durable flooring project.