Removing old laminate flooring typically involves carefully disassembling the planks one row at a time.
Here's a breakdown of the process, generally:
-
Start at a wall: Begin at the edge of the room, usually along a wall where the flooring meets the baseboard.
-
Remove baseboards (if necessary): Carefully pry off the baseboards or molding to expose the edge of the laminate flooring. This may require a pry bar and hammer.
-
Identify the locking mechanism: Laminate flooring planks typically interlock. Figure out which direction you need to lift or tap to disengage the planks.
-
Disassemble the first row:
- Use a tapping block and hammer to gently tap the end of the first plank to disengage it from the adjacent plank.
- Carefully lift the disengaged plank up and out.
-
Continue row by row: Repeat the tapping and lifting process for each plank in the first row, then move to the next row. As you move across the room, the planks may become easier to remove.
-
Dispose of the flooring: Once removed, dispose of the laminate planks properly, following local regulations for waste disposal.
Important Considerations:
- Safety: Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from debris and sharp edges.
- Damage: Be careful not to damage the subfloor during the removal process.
- Tools: A pry bar, hammer, tapping block, and safety glasses are usually needed.
- Direction: The video suggests planks become easier to remove as you move across the room.
