What's under your floor is as important as the floor itself.

Sub-floors might be hidden but they are important to the performance of any flooring.

1. Foundation Inspection: Taking up the old floor allows you to inspect the sub-floor for any damage, rot, mold, or moisture issues. If these go undetected, they can compromise the flooring. It’s also important to know if the old floor you are working on has asbestos, so check before removing.

2. Level Surface: A clean, level sub-floor is essential for a smooth installation. Layers of old flooring can create an uneven surface, leading to problems with telegraphing, alignment, or gaping.

3. Longevity and Durability: Installing directly over old floors can shorten the lifespan of the new floor. Proper adhesion and stability are achieved only when the new floor is laid on a solid, secure foundation.

4. Avoiding Unwanted Movement: With multiple layers, floors can become less stable, leading to creaks or even loosening. Removing the old floor ensures the new installation is firmly anchored.

5. If using a underlayment product make sure it is factory approved and fully cured.

6. Warranty : Most  flooring warranties require removal of existing floors to ensure proper installation and performance. Skipping this step might void the warranty.