Remove or cover old floors – which is the better solution?

Whether renovating, redesigning or refurbishing, the question often arises with ageing floors: should the old floor be removed or simply covered? Both options have their advantages and disadvantages – and they have a decisive impact on the amount of work involved, costs and sustainability. In this article, we show you what matters – and what advantages modern design floor coverings such as CERAMIN® offer.

Removing flooring – the classic method with substance

Advantages:

  • A clean start: during removal, the substrate can be professionally inspected, levelled and prepared.
  • No compromises on installation height: Every millimetre counts, especially when renovating – door frames, furniture and stair connections remain unaffected.
  • Removal of old pollutants: Older PVC or carpet flooring in particular can contain harmful substances such as plasticisers or asbestos.


Disadvantages:

  • Time-consuming and costly: Removing old flooring, especially if it is glued down, can be a laborious task.
  • Noise, dust & disposal: A particular challenge in inhabited rooms – and not always feasible.

Covering old floors – the smart alternative

Advantages:

  • Quick renovation without demolition: Ideal for rented flats or when time is tight.
  • Less dirt, less effort: no noise, no dust, no disposal – a real bonus in everyday life.
  • Acting more sustainably: Existing materials are preserved – in combination with a recyclable floor covering such as CERAMIN, this is an environmentally friendly solution.

Requirements:

  • The old floor must be stable, level and dry.
  • Soft surfaces such as carpets or loose tiles are not suitable.
  • The installation height and impact sound should be carefully checked.

CERAMIN – the perfect solution for both approaches

Whether you decide to completely remove the old floor or plan to cover it, CERAMIN design floor coverings offer you maximum flexibility.

Why CERAMIN®?

  • Extremely dimensionally stable – even when floating installation
  • Ideal for old tiles thanks to low installation height
  • Low emissions & healthy living – no PVC or plasticisers
  • 100% recyclable – it couldn't be more sustainable


CERAMIN really shows its strengths when laid on old tiles or screed: the floor is particularly thin and resilient.

Our conclusion: It depends on the floor and your goals.

Choose to remove if:

  • Contaminants suspected in old coating
  • the old floor is badly damaged
  • you want to play it safe in the long term and technically


Select the overlay if:

  • you want to work sustainably and conserve resources
  • the old coating is stable
  • you want to save time, money and effort


With CERAMIN flooring, you are in good hands in both cases.

FAQ – frequently asked questions on the topic

Can I lay CERAMIN on tiles?
Yes – CERAMIN is perfectly suited for installation on solid existing floor coverings such as tiles.
What do I need to consider regarding the installation height?
CERAMIN is particularly thin and prevents typical problems on door frames and transitions.
Is CERAMIN suitable for rented accommodation?
Yes – CERAMIN can be laid as a floating floor and removed again without leaving any residue.

Share Post

Posts that might also interest you:

Klicksystem-Verlegung eines Bodenbelags – einfache und schnelle Montage
Magazine

Laying floor coverings – how to do it step by step

With good preparation, the right materials and a little patience, you can lay floor coverings yourself. Make sure the subfloor is level and clean, acclimatise the flooring properly and leave sufficient expansion joints. Whether you use a click system or adhesive, modern design floors such as CERAMIN can be laid precisely and easily. With the right care, your floor will remain beautiful and durable for a long time.

Read More »
Jemand wischt den Boden in der Wohnung oder dem Haus mit einem blauen Wischmopp
Magazine

Bodenbelag pflegen – so bleibt Ihr Boden lange schön und werterhaltend

A well-maintained floor not only makes your home more beautiful, but also lasts longer and retains its value. In this article, you will learn how to properly clean and care for your flooring—whether it's laminate, engineered wood, or hardwood. You'll get practical tips on which cleaning products are suitable, how to avoid scratches and wear, and how to keep your floor looking beautiful for a long time with little effort. This way, you can ensure that your floor shines day after day – without any major maintenance.

Read More »