How to remove underlayment

Samantha
by Samantha
We are going to be removing (or attempting to remove) a few layers of linoleum tile that have been laid over top of the original hardwood. So far, the tiles themselves come up decently easy, but I have some concerns about the underlayment. So far, we have been able to get it to budge. Anyone have any tips or trick on how to get it up without damaging the floor underneath?
  1 answer
  • Greg Edwards Greg Edwards on Aug 21, 2015
    Depends on how it was laid. IF it is "screwed and glued" you are pretty much up the creek without a paddle. If it was put down using only a flooring nailer, you can try setting a circular saw to the depth of the piece, and cut out and pry up sections, but you can and probably will make a mistake or two along the way. No matter what technique you use, start at the edge or corner and look for any clues as to how it was put down. That is going to be your determining factor on how to remove it. If this is a kitchen, start where appliances sit over the flooring. This will give you a place you can experiment on without destroying the main floor.