How To Remove Vinyl Flooring From Wood Subfloor

How to Remove Vinyl Flooring from Wood Subfloor

Removing vinyl flooring from a wood subfloor can be a manageable task with the right tools and techniques. Follow these steps for a successful removal:

Safety First: Wear protective gear, including gloves, safety glasses, and a dust mask, to avoid exposure to dust and debris.

Prepare the Room: Remove all furniture and other items from the room. Secure loose baseboards and moldings. Lay down drop cloths to protect the floor and surrounding areas from dust.

Score the Vinyl: Use a utility knife or scoring tool to make shallow cuts into the vinyl flooring, perpendicular to the wood grain of the subfloor. This will make it easier to peel off the vinyl later.

Remove the Vinyl: Starting at an edge or corner, carefully peel back the vinyl flooring. Use a putty knife or scraper to gently pry away the vinyl from the subfloor. Avoid gouging the wood beneath.

Remove the Adhesive: Once the vinyl flooring is removed, there may be adhesive residue left on the subfloor. Use a chemical stripper or adhesive remover specifically designed for vinyl flooring. Apply the remover according to the manufacturer's instructions and scrape off the softened adhesive with a putty knife.

Clean the Subfloor: Wipe down the subfloor with a damp cloth to remove any remaining dust or debris. Allow the subfloor to dry completely before installing new flooring.

Additional Tips:

If the vinyl flooring is particularly sticky, you may need to use heat to soften the adhesive. Use a heat gun or hair dryer cautiously on a low setting to avoid damaging the wood subfloor.
If the vinyl flooring is glued down, you may need to use a power tool, such as a circular saw or reciprocating saw, to cut through the adhesive. Exercise extreme caution when using power tools.
Be patient and take your time. Removing vinyl flooring can be tedious, but with care and precision, you can achieve a clean and durable surface for your new flooring.