This entry was posted on 10/2/2007 11:03 AM and is filed under Flooring.
Removing linoleum flooring can be a messy and often tedious task. The amount of time and effort it will take to remove the linoleum flooring in your home will depend on how long the floor has been in place, as well as the type of glue that was used in the installation. Occasionally, a stable linoleum flooring that is undamaged and firmly attached is left beneath the new flooring but, most of the time, homeowners prefer to remove the linoleum and start with a clean floor. Regardless of the removal method you choose, be prepared to put in some effort.
In most instances, it is impossible to remove both the linoleum and the adhesive at the same time. The type of material beneath the linoleum flooring is a major influence to the ease of the removal. Wood floors covered with linoleum, for instance, take much longer than concrete floors because wood is more likely to damage and more care must be taken. The most efficient tool to use is a razor blade, though paint scrapers are also commonly used. Removing linoleum with a strong adhesive from a concrete floor can easily snap your blades, so be prepared.
For best results, work on removing the linoleum in small sections by cutting strips and peeling away each area. This method will generally remove the surface flooring, as well as at least part of the supporting material, making it much less effort to remove all of the adhesive with little residue.
Once the top layers of linoleum have been removed, there are two widely used methods of removing the adhesive. For many, hot water is the preferred removal agent. This method involves pouring extremely hot or boiling water directly onto an area of the flooring, allowing it to soak into the adhesive before scraping it away. To minimize the mess, you can fold a towel and place it over the flooring before pouring the hot water on the floor.
Others have found that a solvent, like popular Krud Kutter, makes things much easier. Whichever method you use, work in small sections just as before, finishing up one area before moving on to the next. If you work with a chemical, be sure to follow the instructions and heed all safety precautions. Protect your hands as you work.
Heat can be a terrific aid in removing the adhesive as well. Start with a small area of the floor in an out of the way location, in a closet, for instance. Heat the adhesive with a hairdryer and use a beveled straight-edge blade, like a putty knife, to remove it. If you are removing linoleum covering a hardwood floor, take care to scrape in the same direction as the wood grain. You will also want a metal pan or other heat-resistant container to dispose of the remainders.
Once you are comfortable with removing the linoleum using heat, you can replace the hairdryer with a heat gun to make things go faster. There are a few risks involved with using heat. First, you must be careful not to get the floor too hot or it could sear the wood. It is also possible for the adhesive to seep into the floorboards as it melts. To minimize the chances of this happening, work in small areas and continuously move the heat gun. Scrape away all the residue immediately, finishing as quickly as possible.
All of this will usually still not remove all of the adhesive. After cleaning up as best you can, you can consider sanding the floor to remove the remaining adhesive or washing the floor with turpentine or mineral spirits. If you plan to install a new floor with a new adhesive, you can simply apply a wood sealant and be done.
For more information about flooring, visit: http://www.tipsonflooring.com and information if you are still unsure of the right flooring for you.
