| Yes you can install new
hardwood floors over old, but there are several
considerations to think of. If you are installing
by nail or staple down method
directly over a solid 3/4" hardwood floor,
direction must be opposite the old, otherwise you
will get gapping as both floors will expand and
contract together. By installing perpendicular
(shown below 40 year old existing floor) you
not only get a stronger floor but expansion
properties are limited, or the underlying floor
will expand and contract in the opposite
direction. If you're
set on insisting the new be installed in the
same direction, one safe  alternative is to install minimum 3/8" plywood
over the existing floor by screwing and gluing.
Frankly we feel gluing is overkill but some follow
this procedure.
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