Ask Tom & Leslie

Laminate Floor Solutions

I am disabled, and we just bought a house and property in MO. I am trying with the help of my son and father-in-law to finish the basement.  Is it practical to cover the existing floor tiles on the basement floor, rather than try and remove them? I took other tiles, and cut them to size and glued them in. I was thinking of painting them, what do you think?
James B.  1-26-07 2:43pm

Congratulations on the new home!

Now lets talk flooring.  We’re not sure why you want to paint the tile. Don't like the color?  In bad shape?

If it is that you don't like the color, you can paint ceramic tile, but I would not recommend it for such a large and heavily used surface like the floor.  For a backsplash it is okay because you are not walking on it and moving furniture and toys all across the surface. 

You can install laminate flooring right over the tile.  If the tile is not cracked too badly and has an even surface you can use a foam underlayment and then install a floating laminate floor over the tile.  Laminate floor has a very durable surface and easy to install, most just snap right together, no glue necessary.  The laminate can look like anything from tile to wood so you have a lot of choices. 

The laminate will not only look great and be an excellent addition to your home it will also help when it comes time to sell.  A painted ceramic tile floor will not help to attract a buyer since it would most likely need replacing at that point.

Print Version

Search Related Topics: Fall, Flooring, Spring, Summer, Winter...