Installing Cork Flooring over Linoleum

If you’re looking for an eco-friendly and stylish way to update your home’s flooring, consider installing cork flooring over an existing linoleum floor. Not only is cork flooring durable and unique, but it’s also a great way to update your home without the hassle and expense of tearing out the old flooring. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of cork flooring and provide step-by-step instructions for installing it over linoleum.

Benefits of Cork Flooring

Cork flooring is an environmentally friendly and sustainable option for home flooring. It’s made from the bark of cork oak trees, which can be harvested without harming the tree. This renewable resource makes cork flooring an eco-friendly choice for homeowners who want to reduce their environmental impact.

Cork flooring is also incredibly durable and long-lasting. It’s naturally resistant to mold, mildew, and pests, and it’s able to withstand high-traffic areas. Additionally, cork flooring has a unique aesthetic that can add warmth and texture to any room.

Preparing for Installation

Before you begin installing cork flooring over linoleum, you’ll need to ensure that the existing linoleum is in good condition. Any loose or lifted sections of the linoleum must be re-glued down, and any severely worn or stained areas should be covered with a new sheet of linoleum.

Materials Needed

Cork flooring tiles or planks
Underlayment pad
Vapor barrier
Saw
Hammer
Nails

Step-by-Step Guide

Lay down an underlayment pad to provide extra cushioning and soundproofing.
Use a vapor barrier to prevent moisture from seeping up through the cork flooring.
Lay down the cork tiles or planks according to the manufacturer’s directions. Be sure to stagger the seams and leave a ¼ inch gap around the edges of the room to allow for expansion.
Use a saw to cut the cork tiles or planks to fit around the edges of the room.
Use a hammer and nails to secure the cork tiles or planks in place. Be sure to nail them down securely, but not so tightly that they crack or break.
Once the cork flooring is installed, use a sealant to protect it from moisture and damage.

Installing cork flooring over an existing linoleum floor is a relatively easy and affordable way to update your home’s flooring. Not only is cork flooring eco-friendly and sustainable, but it’s also durable and long-lasting. By following these simple steps, you can give your home’s floors a fresh and modern look that will last for years to come.