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There are plenty of reasons you may need to removelaminate flooring.
Luckily, the only thing easier thaninstalling laminate flooringis removing it.
Reusing Laminate Flooring
In many cases, reusing laminate flooring is feasible.
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Additionally, verify the space matches the specifications of the laminate you’re reusing.
For example, don’t install laminate flooring intended for above-grade use in abasement.
The boards may simply be glued together or the flooring itself may adhere to the subfloor.
In this case, a heat gun can help loosen adhesive and a floor scraper canremove adhesivefrom the subfloor.
Glued flooring can’t be reused, so don’t worry about damaging it as you remove it.
Safety Considerations
Demolition of any kind is dangerous.
Even a project like removing laminate flooring carries risks, and you should always wear appropriate safety gear.
Gloves will protect your hands from cuts, as the edges of the laminate can be sharp.
To protect your knees, wear knee pads or use a foam kneeling cushion.
If you find a screwed-down bracket beneath the transition strip, remove that as well.
All transition strips are a little different and you may need to adjust these methods to remove yours.
This is a necessary step if you plan to reuse the trim.
If it’s too close to the wall, use a pry bar to flip it up.
Remove Remaining Rows
Continue removing each row by popping the joints loose.
To make quick work of cleaning up, create neat stacks of flooring as you go.
Clean Up the Subfloor
Remove any debris from the subfloor using a wet/dry vac.
If necessary, scrape up any adhesive or residue.
For some stubborn adhesives, a heat gun will help soften them.
Modern advancements have allowed up to 85% of laminate flooring’s mass to be recycled.
However, this is only true for certain laminate flooring materials.
Check with your manufacturer for advice on recycling your specific material.
