How To Remove Laminate Floor Planks

Laminate flooring is a popular choice for many homeowners due to its durability, affordability, and ease of installation. However, there may come a time when you need to remove laminate floor planks, whether it's for repairs, renovations, or a complete flooring replacement. Removing laminate flooring can be a relatively straightforward process, but it's important to do it carefully to avoid damaging the planks or the subfloor.

Tools You'll Need:

Before you start, gather the necessary tools for the job:

Laminate flooring pull bar or pry bar
Hammer or mallet
Utility knife
Duct tape (optional)
Floor protector (optional)

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Protect the Floor:

If you're concerned about damaging the subfloor, place a floor protector, such as a piece of plywood or cardboard, under the area you'll be working on.

2. Remove Baseboards and Trim:

Remove the baseboards and any other trim that's attached to the floor. Pry them off gently using a pry bar.

3. Locate the Starting Point:

Find a loose or damaged plank that's not in the middle of the room. This will be your starting point for removing the planks.

4. Insert the Pull Bar:

Slide the laminate flooring pull bar under the edge of the plank at an angle. Tap the bar gently with a hammer or mallet to loosen the lock.

5. Pry Up the Plank:

Once the lock is loose, pry up the plank gently. Place a piece of duct tape on the exposed edge of the plank to prevent scratching the subfloor.

6. Remove Subsequent Planks:

Continue prying up and removing the adjacent planks, working your way towards the opposite wall.

7. Remove the Last Row:

The last row of planks may be more difficult to remove. Use a utility knife to cut the planks lengthwise near the wall and pry them up individually.

8. Clean the Subfloor:

Once all the planks are removed, clean the subfloor thoroughly to remove any debris or adhesive.

Tips for Removing Laminate Floor Planks:

Go slow and be patient. Trying to remove the planks too quickly or forcefully can damage them.
If the planks are glued down, you may need to use a solvent to loosen the adhesive before prying them up.
Wear gloves and safety glasses for protection.
If you encounter any obstacles, such as nails or staples, use a utility knife to carefully cut them away.
Dispose of the old laminate flooring responsibly by checking with your local waste management authority.

Conclusion:

Removing laminate floor planks can be a simple task if done properly. By following these steps and using the appropriate tools, you can safely remove your old laminate flooring and prepare your subfloor for new flooring or repairs.