Laminate flooring is popular for its low maintenance and sleek appearance, but there may come a time when you need to replace it. Here are four simple steps to remove laminate flooring and prepare for new floors.
Step 1: Prepare the Area
- Remove Furniture: Clear all furniture from the area to make it accessible.
- Clean the Floor: Vacuum and clean the floor space to ensure safe handling during removal.
- Dry the Boards: Ensure all sides of your laminate boards are dry to prevent moisture damage.
Step 2: Gather Tools
You'll need:
- Pry bar
- Rubber-faced grouting float
Step 3: Remove the Flooring
- Pry Off Baseboards: Use a pry bar to remove baseboards or trim, revealing a gap between the flooring and the wall.
- Locate the Groove-Side: Find the groove-side of the floor panels, usually on the right or left side of the room.
- Disengage Panels: Start at a corner panel, place the grouting float on top, and push down and lengthways to dislodge it. Once disengaged, push it sideways to remove.
- Repeat: Continue this process, working down one row at a time.
Step 4: Clean Up
- Vacuum Debris: Use a vacuum cleaner to remove any dust or dirt left behind.
- Clean Panels (Optional): If reusing the panels, wipe them down with a micro-fiber cloth and a solution of 1 cup white vinegar mixed with 1 gallon hot water.
Tips for Adhesive Laminate
- Adhesive Removal: If adhesive was used, you might need a stronger tool like a pry bar and an adhesive remover for a clean finish.
By following these steps, you can effectively remove your laminate flooring and prepare the space for new installation.
