Q: I am looking into the purchase of a home that was built in 1895. Previous owners have covered the original hardwood floors with ceramic tile, which was then covered with floating floors. The surface is about 1200 sq. ft. I have been told by many people that this is a very difficult job (that I would leave to professionals).
How ambitious a project is this? How expensive?
A: Very ambitious. Removing the laminate is one thing. The tile is another. Breaking up the tile and hauling it away. Removal of mesh, etc. Not easy or fun by anyone’s imagination. I think you have to assume the original floor is not restorable, so that should be removed to the sub floor. I would then screw down 3/8 spruce sheeting and the hardwood floor of your choice, best to be finished on site.
This will cost in excess of $15 per sq. ft. for removal of all this flooring, supply and install of plywood and new floor and finishing. On a bright note, this is a once in a lifetime investment which won’t have to be repeated. If you are up to it, you can do all the rip out or “grunt” work to reduce costs.
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