Best Way To Remove Old Linoleum Flooring

Removing old linoleum flooring can be a daunting task, but it's one that can be accomplished with the right tools and a little bit of elbow grease. Here are the steps on how to remove old linoleum flooring:

1. Safety First

Before you start, there are a few safety precautions you should take. Wear gloves and a dust mask to protect yourself from fumes and debris. Open windows or use a fan to ventilate the area.

2. Remove Baseboards and Trim

Using a pry bar, carefully remove the baseboards and any other trim around the edges of the room. This will give you access to the edges of the linoleum.

3. Score the Linoleum

Use a utility knife to score the linoleum in several places. This will help to loosen the adhesive and make it easier to remove.

4. Heat the Linoleum

Use a heat gun or hair dryer to heat up the linoleum. This will soften the adhesive and make it easier to remove.

5. Pry Up the Linoleum

Use a pry bar or putty knife to pry up the linoleum. Start at one corner and work your way around the room. Be careful not to damage the subfloor.

6. Remove the Adhesive

Once the linoleum is removed, you will need to remove the adhesive from the subfloor. You can do this with a chemical stripper or a scraping tool.

7. Clean the Subfloor

Once the adhesive is removed, you should clean the subfloor with a degreaser or cleaner. This will help to remove any remaining adhesive or debris.

8. Dispose of the Linoleum

Once the linoleum is removed, you will need to dispose of it properly. Contact your local waste management company for instructions on how to do this.

Additional Tips

If the linoleum is particularly old or damaged, you may need to use a power tool to remove it.
Be patient and take your time. Removing linoleum flooring can be a time-consuming process.
If you are not confident in your ability to remove the linoleum flooring yourself, you can hire a professional to do it for you.