Can plank linoleum be installed over ceramic tile?

[Lois S.]

I have a small kitchen contiguous with a large family room.  The floor is tile. Several tiles in the kitchen area are cracked, & I was hoping to remove & replace just the few cracked tiles next to the sink, but I can't find the same tile size available. (17.5 X 17.5) .

If I wanted to just put a new floor on top of the tile, what would be the best choice - or is this even a good idea?

Thanks

[Mike Koprowski]

Hey Lois, 

I think you're probably referring to LVP or Luxury Vinyl Plank flooring?  Linoleum can be sold in tile or plank form but in the big box stores it's usually LVP that you're looking at.

Cracking tile is generaly caused by one of two reasons, an improper bond either between the tile and mortar or the mortar and subfloor. OR the subfloor has too much flex in it causing the tile and grout to crack, usually along the plywood joints.

LVP can be installed over an existing tile floor but I'd definitely check the manufacturer spec. sheet before purchasing to make sure its an acceptable substrate.  As with any subfloor/substrate you'll want to make sure its VERY flat/smooth, imperfections will telegraph upward because the LVP material is thin and flexible. If there are any high corners sticking up from the initial tile installation you'll want to grind them down level of the other tiles around it to avoid air gaps between the new and old floors.

Hope this helps a bit, good luck!

[Lois S.]

Thanks Mike.  Yes, I was thinking of LVP.

After I posted, I did find a story that recommended a skim coat over the tile to smooth it out.  

The cracked tiles look like something heavy was dropped on them. Probably a heavy pot.

[Bruce Woodruff]

You would definitely want to skim the tile before installing LVP. Can you find a very similar tile and cut it to fit?

[Lois S.]

Unfortunately the tile is no longer sold.  I might find something similar, or just try to patch it & the tenant can put a kitchen rug or pad in front of the sink area, which would cover it.

Is this damage something that tenant should be charged for if I could hire someone to replace the tile?

[Gavin M.]

If you have broken tile it’s possible something was dropped on them. Or you might have cracking grout or loose tiles throughout the area. You can’t skim over failing tile. If your confident it’s installed well then you can skim over it and install lvp.