Thinking of updating your kitchen or utility room flooring but don’t want the hassle of ripping up old quarry tiles? You’re not alone!
Thinking of updating your kitchen or utility room flooring but don’t want the hassle of ripping up old quarry tiles? You’re not alone! A lot of homeowners wonder whether you can lay cushion vinyl flooring over tile, and the good news is—yes, you can! Laying vinyl flooring over an existing floor, such as tile, can save you the time and expense of tile removal, while still giving you a fresh and modern look.
But, as with most DIY projects, there are a few things to get right first.
Customer Question: Madeleine asked:
"I have ordered samples of your cushion vinyl flooring sheet and am keen to lay this in our kitchen / utility room. We currently have quarry tiles (1960 ones) – not lovely old ones and wonder if it's possible to lay this straight over the top – we are worried it may not adhere properly – have you any advice please? Also we have 2 dogs, will this be robust enough for their paws or will it mark easily?"
Best4Flooring Paul answers:
"The cushion floor can actually be loose laid onto the quarry tiles providing they are completely flat and you can also use spray adhesive/double sided tape around the edges. If you are wanting to fully adhere the vinyl down then you would need to add a layer of self-levelling screed or plywood to the quarry tiles. In regards to your dogs, like any cushion floor, they will puncture/split if a sharp object is dropped, so the claws may well tear the vinyl over time. In regards to marking the floor, dirt will be easily washed off with warm water."
How to Install Vinyl Flooring Over Quarry Tiles
If your quarry tiles are flat and stable, you’re in luck—you can lay vinyl flooring right over the top. But if you’re dealing with uneven tiles, deep grout lines, or an older surface that’s seen better days, you’ll need to put in a bit of prep work first to achieve a successful installation that lasts the test of time.
1. Prep Like a Pro
No matter what type of floor you’re working with, a good clean is always the first step. Dirt, grease, and dust can mess with adhesion, so grab your vacuum, mop, and some warm water and give those tiles a proper scrub. A clean surface makes all the difference when it comes to getting a smooth, long-lasting vinyl flooring installation.
2. Level Things Out
If your tiles are uneven, now’s the time to fix it—because once the vinyl goes down, every little dip and grout line could start to show through. If you want a flawless, professional finish, filling in those gaps with a self-levelling compound is a step you won’t want to skip!
Assessing the Quarry Tiles
- If there are dips or gaps, use a self-levelling screed to smooth things out.
- Check for cracks or loose tiles—if you find any, get them fixed before moving forward.
- Fill deep grout lines with thin-set mortar and let it dry completely (no shortcuts here—24–48 hours is best). Rushing this step can cause major problems later.
- Once dry, sand down any rough spots and give the floor another sweep.
3. Protect Against Moisture
Quarry tiles can sometimes be prone to moisture issues. If you’ve ever noticed damp spots on your current flooring, consider adding a damp-proof membrane (DPM) before installing your vinyl flooring over tile. Some screed includes built-in moisture resistance, which can save you a step.
4. Time to Lay the Vinyl
Now for the fun part—installing your cushion vinyl!
- Unroll the cushion vinyl flooring and let it sit in the room for at least 24 hours to acclimate.
- Measure and cut your flooring to size with a sharp utility knife, leaving a little excess around the edges.
- If you’re going for a loose lay installation, use spray adhesive or double-sided tape to secure the edges and prevent movement.
- For a fully adhered installation, spread a vinyl flooring adhesive and press the vinyl into place.
- Use a roller to smooth out bubbles, and trim any excess vinyl for a neat finish.
- Transition strips may be needed between vinyl over tile and adjacent flooring types to accommodate height differences.
If you’re worried about minor imperfections in the subfloor, choosing felt-backed cushion vinyl can help create a smoother look and feel.
Laying vinyl over floorboards? Check out this guide for more installation tips!
Get Ready to Feel Inspired…
If you’re looking for a flooring upgrade that’s comfortable, stylish, and easy to install, cushioned vinyl flooring is the perfect choice. Whether you love the look of natural wood, elegant tiles, or something bold and modern, there’s a design to suit every space.
Explore our full range, order free samples, and enjoy fast delivery—so you can get started on your dream floor today. Shop now!
Alternatives to Laying Sheet Vinyl Flooring Over Your Existing Tile Surface
If laying sheet vinyl over your existing tile floors doesn’t feel like the right fit for your space, there are a few other options to consider.
Removing the Existing Tiles
Taking out your old ceramic tile floors gives you a fresh, clean subfloor, making it easier to install any type of flooring—whether that’s luxury vinyl, laminate flooring, or even hardwood flooring. While this method is more labour-intensive (and messy!), it gives a completely level surface and eliminates any concerns about grout lines showing through.
Luxury Vinyl Flooring – A Floating Alternative
Another popular option is luxury vinyl plank, which offers durability and a variety of design choices. Click-lock luxury vinyl plank (LVT) or rigid core vinyl (SPC/WPC) are great alternatives if you want to install new flooring over quarry tiles without adhesives or major prep work. These planks lock together and “float” over the existing surface, making installation quick, DIY-friendly, and completely reversible—perfect for renters or anyone who wants an easy update.
Before installing, check that the quarry tiles are level, with no dips greater than 3mm, to avoid an uneven finish. Since quarry tiles often lack a damp-proof membrane (DPM), adding a moisture barrier or using a self-levelling screed with built-in DPM can prevent future issues. Some click vinyl tile products include built-in underlay, but for those that don’t, an LVT-specific underlay is recommended for extra comfort, sound reduction, and stability.
While floating vinyl flooring is a fantastic alternative to fully adhered vinyl, proper preparation is key to ensuring a smooth, durable finish. If you’re unsure whether your floor tiles are suitable, getting a professional opinion before installation can help avoid problems down the line - our team are here to help!
Laminate Flooring – Another DIY-Friendly Alternative
If vinyl isn’t quite right, laminate is another solid option for covering existing flooring. Thanks to its floating click system, installation is fast, simple, and glue-free, making it a great choice for DIYers. Plus, with realistic wood and stone designs, you get the high-end look of natural materials without the high-end price tag.
Laminate has come a long way—many modern options are water-resistant, so they’re suitable for kitchens and even bathrooms. As we've mentioned, because quarry tiles can hold moisture, a good underlay is essential to prevent damp issues and add a little extra comfort underfoot. If you’re after a stylish, budget-friendly alternative that’s easy to install, laminate could be just what you need.
Cant decide between LVT and Laminate? Read our guide to find out which is right for you!
Final Thoughts
Yes, you can lay vinyl sheet flooring over tile, but surface prep is key. If the tiles are smooth and level, you can loose lay the vinyl or secure it with adhesive. If the grout lines are deep or the tiles aren’t perfectly even, use a self-levelling compound for the best results.
Ready to Transform Your Floors?
Explore our full range of vinyl, laminate, and luxury vinyl flooring today. Order free samples, get expert advice, and enjoy fast, hassle-free delivery—so you can start your flooring project with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install cushion vinyl over any type of tile?
Yes, vinyl flooring can be installed over most tile surfaces, as long as they are clean, level, and in good condition. However, if the tiles are uneven or have deep grout lines, extra preparation like screed may be needed to create a smooth surface.
How do I deal with grout lines when laying vinyl over existing tiles?
If the lines are shallow, they usually won’t be an issue. But for deeper lines, filling them with floor patching compound or self-levelling screed will prevent them from showing through the vinyl over time.
Is cushion vinyl flooring durable enough for pets and high-traffic areas?
Cushion vinyl floors are comfortable underfoot and easy to clean, making them great for pets and busy households. However, sharp claws can puncture the surface over time. For extra durability, consider a thicker vinyl with a reinforced wear layer or trim your pet’s nails regularly to prevent damage.
What’s the best way to maintain vinyl flooring?
Vinyl flooring is low-maintenance—just sweep or vacuum regularly to remove dust and dirt, and mop with warm water and a neutral cleaner. Avoid steam mops and harsh chemicals, as they can damage the protective surface.
What are my alternatives if I don’t want to lay vinyl over tiles?
If installing vinyl over tiles isn’t ideal for your space, you can either remove the existing tiles for a fresh subfloor or opt for floating laminate or click vinyl flooring, which don't require adhesives. Both options provide a stable and stylish finish while ensuring long-term durability.
