How to Install Laminate Flooring Over Ceramic Tile

Ensure that the ceramic tile floor is level and free of cracks. If needed, you can use epoxy to fill in gaps in the tile. However, this is also evidence that there could be problems with your subfloor. You might want to consult with a professional before continuing.

Roll out the moisture barrier. Tape the pieces together with duct tape where necessary.

Roll out the padding on top of the moisture barrier. Again, tape pieces together with duct tape.

Cut one of the laminate flooring pieces in half. Set this in the corner of the room, about 1/8 inch from the wall. You can use tile spacers to help maintain this distance.

Lay another piece of laminate against the first, alongside the short end. Use spacers to keep this laminate square in line with the first. Snap the pieces of tile together. Put a small block of wood against the top of the new laminate piece, opposite of the end connected to the corner piece. Gently tap a hammer on this block to ensure the two laminate pieces are tightly fitted together.

Repeat this process until you get to the other corner. Measure and cut this laminate piece. You will have to slip this into place with a pry bar.

Start the next row with an uncut piece of laminate. This will give the floor a staggered look. You will also have to tap this row into the row next to it with the block of wood and the hammer to ensure a good fit.

Repeat laying the rows until the entire room is finished.

Cut and measure baseboard molding for along the floor. This will hold the laminate in place and also cover up the gap between the flooring and the wall. Remove the tile spacers before nailing the molding in place.