Can You Put LVP Over Tile? What to Check First

Can You Put LVP Over Tile? What to Check First

Yes, you can often put LVP over tile. Luxury vinyl plank is a floating floor, so it doesn't need to be nailed or glued down. But "can" and "should" aren't the same thing.

The Checklist

  • Flat. LVP shows every bump. Lippage between tiles will make planks click and flex.
  • Grout lines. Wide or deep grout joints can show through thinner LVP over time. Many manufacturers want them filled flush first.
  • Solid. Cracked, loose or hollow tile has to be fixed or pulled first.
  • Height. Check doors, transitions and appliances. Even thin LVP adds height on top of tile.
  • Manufacturer rules. Read the install guide. Going against it can void your warranty.

The Hidden Problems

Covering tile doesn't fix what's wrong with it. If the tile is cracking, that slab may be moving. If there was water damage, it's still there. Once LVP goes down, you can't see any of it.

Tile that runs under built ins is another catch. Pulling tile only where you can reach it can leave uneven edges to deal with.

Why Most People Pull the Tile

When we walk Sacramento homes, the deciding factor is usually height and transitions. Tile plus LVP sits higher than the carpet or wood in the next room. Pulling the tile keeps everything level.

The other reason is lifespan. LVP over a clean, flat slab just performs better.

What Tile Removal Looks Like

We break the tile up with ride on machines and hand tools, grind the thinset flat and haul everything away. A HEPA shroud catches dust at the cut. Most single family homes are done in a day.

See how it works on our dustless tile removal page, and read our tile removal cost guide for pricing.

Our Recommendation

A small laundry room with flat tile? LVP over it can be fine. A whole first floor? Pull the tile. You'll get a flatter, quieter floor and no surprise height changes.

We do the removal and the LVP installation, so you're not coordinating two companies.

Get your tile removal and LVP price or call (916) 542-3333. We price every job in your home, and the price we quote is the price you pay.

Old floor coming out? We price it in your home, and that's the price you pay.

(916) 542-3333Get your floor removal price