We are planning to install a new floating floor. Currently, there is a laminate floor that I believe (?) is laid directly on the tongue and groove, possibly with a poorly insulated intermediate joist. There is likely some type of underlay foam. Under the floor, there is a crawl space with relatively high humidity, which is managed through negative pressure ventilation and controlled dehumidification. The floor we are considering installing is a wooden floor. What I'm wondering is whether it has any "construction-related" significance if I remove the old floor or not? Could it possibly even be better (?) to leave it in place? Are there any aspects regarding moisture? Regarding "seal" against the crawl space? The new floor will obviously add some height, so it also depends on whether it can be resolved with thresholds, etc.
 
Probably not. Keep in mind that it may creak and crack if you lay the new floor directly on the old one.
 
Jonatan79 Jonatan79 said:
Most likely not. Keep in mind that it may creak and crack if you lay the new floor directly on the old one.
it looks like this underneath.... and if I don't remove the old one, there will be large height differences compared to, for example, stone in front of the fireplace..

Close-up of a wooden floor edge with uneven levels and marble-like surface underneath, suggesting potential height differences if not removed. Joining of different floor levels with tiles and wooden boards, showing a mallet and white underlayment; tools for renovation work visible.
 
The laminate floor likely also provides some insulation...
 
What temperature is the crawl space? I would remove the laminate and use underlay foam that suits the new floor.
 
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Yes, the crawl space needs insulation as it is currently unheated. I believe that the "new" floor on top of the original floor actually makes a difference in the insulation. However, it is somewhat tempting to sand the original...
 
Well, don't expect a new floor to affect the temperature much. Do you know if the insulation in the floor structure is poor or what type it is?
 
Jonatan79 Jonatan79 said:
Well, don't count on a new floor doing much for the temperature. Do you know if the floor joist insulation is bad or of what type?
Yes, it is bad. Looks like mineral wool. I will probably supplement with foam from underneath.
 
Checked and it's 15C in the crawl space, so all in all quite warm...
 
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