I've installed 2000 sqft of engineered hardwood flooring, which doesn't seem to mind minor imperfections, but my linoleum is extremely sensitive and reveals every tiny bump. I've tried using a thin foam underlayment, but it hasn't helped. I'm reluctant to apply another layer of self-leveling compound to the slab. Are there easier ways to deal with this issue? Would switching to Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) help cover these blemishes? I prefer to stick with the linoleum since it's for my laundry room, where looks aren't the main concern.
3 Answers
When we installed marmolium, we were advised to use a minimum of 1/4” or 3/8” sanded plywood on the subfloor, filling and sanding down any screw holes or seams. Since it's a laundry room and you've already got a cement layer, why not just top it off with an epoxy coating? It could simplify things.
One option is to install a 1/4” plywood subfloor on top of your existing slab. Just remember to glue the seams well to avoid any issues later on.
Any thin flooring, including linoleum, will settle into the contours of the surface beneath it over time, so the bumps will still affect how it feels.
I totally hear you on your linoleum woes, but some imperfections are just part of the game. You might want to consider adding a nice rug over the trouble spots—it’s a laundry room, after all!