Hardwood Floor Installation Over Tile: Benefits and Challenges

Ethan Smith

By Ethan Smith

25 Jan. 2025

8 min read

Hardwood Floor Over Tile
Photo: @omidhaerii

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    Installing hardwood floors over tile is an easy, cost-effective, neat, and time-saving option to set the mood and visual appeal of the room. Just like other ideas, it too has its pros and cons which we’ll discuss later in the article. Installing hardwood over tile helps skip the tedious cleaning work and this is one of the reasons that many homeowners prefer direct laying rather than removing the old tile. All you have to do is carefully plan the project and consider factors for the perfect accomplishment of the work. To know more about the different aspects of direct laying over tile, read the article.

    Pros of Wood Flooring Over the Tile

    There are innumerable benefits of installing wood flooring over the tiles if done with adequate planning. Some of the benefits are as follows:

    Budget-Friendly

    Direct laying over the tile saves the labor cost of removing the old tile and disposing of it, making it a cost-effective option.

    Saves Installation Time

    This is a time saving option as it helps save time in removing the old tile and preparing the floor from scratch for installation. This results in faster work in less time.

    Elevate Aesthetic

    Wood extends a warm and natural look to the room adding an aesthetic element to the space in the simplest form.

    Available in Multiple Options

    Wood flooring is a versatile material available in various styles, designs, and finishes which can complement any interior design style.

    East to Maintain

    One of the best features of wood flooring is its low maintenance. It merely needs regular sweeping and occasional mopping.

    Comfortable

    Wood flooring has unmatchable underfoot comfort compared to tiled flooring. You feel more comfortable during the colder months.

    Reduces Noise

    Wooden flooring helps in controlling noise in the rooms transforming it into a soothing place for relaxation.

    Durable

    High-quality engineered wood flooring tolerates high foot traffic, and that’s why it is preferred for its durability.

    Environment-Friendly

    Hardwood Floor
    Photo: @afs_flooring

    It is considered eco-friendly because it cuts down on the disposal of old tile, reducing waste.

    Cons of Wood Flooring Over the Tile

    Lifting of Tile Beneath the Floor

    There's a chance of tile beneath the floor lifting over the period. However, tiles pasted for longer periods have minimal chance of lifting.

    Uneven Base

    If the tile surface is uneven, it’ll create an uneven base for wood flooring that may cause damage to the wood over the years.

    Moisture

    Often, tiles in the kitchen and laundry area are exposed to moisture which can seep through the lines not grouted for long and damage the wood flooring, causing warp and mold growth.

    Adhesive Issue

    The perfect adhesive is essential to lay the wood floor over the tiles. In the absence of proper adhesive, the bond between tile and wood will weaken, resulting in loose boards.

    Increase in Floor Height

    The normal floor height will increase which may create problems at the doorways and other rooms.

    Things to Consider Before Installing Hardwood Floor Over Tile

    Perfect Condition of the Existing Tile

    The existing tile surface should be free from cracks and damage. The surface should be leveled for proper installation.

    No Dampness

    Moisture content present in the floor can affect the quality of wooden flooring, so make sure there’s no moisture rising from the tiles.

    Clean Tile

    Clean the tile properly before installation. The tile should be free from dust, grease, or debris to ensure a strong bond between tile and wood flooring.

    Check for Floor Height

    Laying wood floor over tile increases the floor height, so make sure the increased floor height will not create hindrances with baseboard or door clearance.

    Select the Right Wood Flooring

    Choose engineered wood flooring as it is more stable and less prone to warping.

    Prepare the Surface

    Make the surface of the tile roughly ground for better adhesion between the tile and wood flooring.

    Opt for the Appropriate Installation Method

    Amongst various installation methods, check for suitable installation methods for the floor of your house.

    Suitable Adhesive

    It is advisable to confirm from an expert the suitability of the adhesive for laying wood flooring over the tile.

    Hire a Professional Installer

    Hardwood Floor Installation
    Photo: @iacamericanfloors

    Always hire an expert to understand the best installation option for long-lasting results. The experts bring in years of experience and advice based on their experience.

    Various Installation Method

    There are numerous ways to put wood floor over the tile discussed below:

    Glued Down

    This is one of the most popular installation methods. This method involves applying adhesive to the back of the hardwood log and pressing hard over the existing tile. Choose the best quality adhesive to ensure the floor stays in place for long.

    Interlocking

    This is another popular method of installation that involves laying a layer of foam padding on the existing tile and installing the hardwood log to each other using tongue- and- groove- system.

    Cost of Installation

    The cost of installation of a hardwood floor starts from $8 per square foot. However, it depends on the type of wood, the type of existing tile, the size, and the services required for installation.

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