Wood flooring glue is incredibly strong; this can make the task of removing flooring planks a very arduous one. However, if you're willing to put the work into this labour-intensive DIY job, you'll find installing a new sub floor much easier.
Here's a guide detailing how you can go about removing a glued-down wood floor:
Step 1 - The first thing you'll need to do is determine the thickness of the floor; this can be done by removing the skirting board, which will expose the gap between the wall and the wood flooring. To get an accurate measurement, drop a ruler into the gap and make a note of the thickness.
Step 2 - Cut the floor into square-foot sections with a circular saw (it should be set to the depth of the sub floor).
Step 3 - Make sure you start the removal process at the wall. Take a pry bar and force it underneath the newly cut square with a hammer. Gradually pry the flooring away from the floor. Repeat the process until all squares have been removed.
Step 4 - Grab a floor scraper and work at removing the glue from the sub floor. Floor scrapers can be rented or bought from a DIY store.
Step 5 - Pour boiling water onto a remaining traces of glue to melt it down. Use old rags to soak up the water and glue; when the water has cooled, wipe away.
The latest flooring news, courtesy of Floors Online.
Date : 31/01/2012
Category: Flooring Industry News