I'm looking for advice on installing 3/4" prefinished hardwood flooring over existing sheet vinyl in our kitchen and breakfast area.

House is 14 years old. The 1/16" sheet vinyl is over 1/4" plywood over 23/32" OSB. The vinyl appears to be glued down well throughout. The 4" wide hardwood will run perpendicular to the joists and a wall in the middle of the house. I'll be using 2" staples.

1. Is there any reason to use felt or rosin paper between the vinyl and the hardwood? Is there potential for squeaking between the wood and vinyl if I don't?

2. The floor is fairly flat throughout, except at one end where it suddenly drops about 3/8" over the last 3' at the wall that's mentioned above. At its worst the dip is 1/2". I've looked into raising the floor from below but it's not a feasible option. What's the best way to shim this low strip up to an acceptable height? Would you foresee problems if I added 1/4" plywood and/or vinyl (that I took up from another section of the floor where I'll be installing tile) and then feather it with felt? Other ideas?

I'd welcome any other thoughts or suggestions you'd care to offer.

Thanks!

- Bernie

installing over vinyl is no problem, its actually a very good vapor retarder. level with the vinyl and felt, sounds like your on the right track.