How To Remove Laminate Flooring: 4 Simple Steps to Follow
Laminate flooring is a popular choice for homeowners looking to install new floors. Its low maintenance and sleek appearance has made it a go-to option for many people. Laminate flooring is often used as an easy replacement for old, dirty carpet or difficult vinyls that cannot be removed easily. However, there comes a time when you may need to remove your laminate flooring and replace it with something else. Here are four steps on how to remove laminate flooring so you can put in new floors!
4 Simple Steps To Remove Laminate Flooring:
- First, remove furniture from the area where your laminate flooring will be removed. This will make it easier for workers to access your floor.
- Next, make sure all sides of your laminate board are dry before beginning any work on your floor. You don’t want any moisture seeping into the wood or causing swelling which could cause damage to your foundation or walls.
- Then, gradually peel back each layer of the laminate while being careful to keep the backing intact
- Finally, use a vacuum cleaner or air compressor to suck up any loose debris left behind
Preparation
Laminate flooring is easy to install and just as easy to remove… when you know how. Here are a few things to know in preparation for removing your laminate flooring. The edges are fragile, so if you’re looking to reuse or keep the quality of your laminate flooring then be sure to disassemble the edges with care.
Before you get started, make sure you have your tools and materials ready. You’ll only need two tools for this straightforward removal process:
- Pry bar
- Rubber-faced grouting float
Once you’re confident you have everything you need to start the removal process, start by removing all furniture and clutter from the space so you have a clean canvas to remove your laminate flooring. After removing all furniture, make sure to clean and vacuum the floor space. This may seem like a waste of time as the flooring will be removed, however, it will ensure that the flooring is clean and safe for handling during the removal process.
Now you’re ready to start lifting your laminate flooring.
Removal
Laminate flooring was traditionally installed using glue or nails which made for a lengthy removal process. However, contemporary laminate flooring is now made with a locking mechanism that simply unlocks when you want to separate and remove them.
Laminate flooring is easy to install and just as easy to remove… when you know how. Here are a few things to know in preparation for removing your laminate flooring. The edges are fragile, so if you’re looking to reuse or keep the quality of your laminate flooring then be sure to disassemble the edges with care.
The first step in the removal process is to pry off the baseboards or trim using a pry bar. This will reveal a 10-12mm gap between the flooring and the wall. You’ll need this gap to shift and remove the laminate floor boards from each other.
Next, locate the groove-side of the floor. This will be on either the right or left-hand side of the room. Once you’ve located the groove-side of the floor panels, start by gently pulling the corner panel away from the rest of the flooring.
This is where the rubber-faced grouting float comes in. Place the grouting float on top of the corner panel, push down on it then push the board lengthways toward the wall. This action will dislodge it from the adjoining laminate panel. Once disengaged, push it sideways to remove it from the plank to which it is attached.
Once your corner panel is removed, simply repeat this process working down one row at a time.
You may also want to keep in mind whether adhesive was used in attaching your laminate flooring and consider using a more powerful adhesive remover when removing your laminate flooring. If adhesive was used, you will need a stronger tool such as a pry bar and maybe even some adhesive remover to make sure you get a clean and smooth finish.
Cleaning
Once you’ve cleared and removed all laminate flooring from your space, you can use a vacuum cleaner to help remove any dust or dirt from your space. Make sure your space is free of dust, clutter and tools so your new flooring can be installed with ease.
If you’re looking to reuse or keep your flooring, be sure to clean your laminate floor boards. Take a microfibre cloth, spray it with laminate cleaning solution and simply wipe down your floor boards so they are ready to use.
For any easy laminate safe cleaning solution, simply mix 1 cup of white vinegar with a gallon of hot water. Pour the solution into a spray bottle for easy application that won’t cause any water damage or bubbling to your laminate flooring. The vinegar will act as a natural cleaner and stain remover for a quick and easy DIY cleaning solution.
