How to Rip Up Carpet

If you dislike your current carpet so much that you are ready to rip it up, this article is for you.

I am a big advocate for DIY whenever possible.

I like fixing things around the house because it shows my creative side and saves me a great deal of money.

Before you go and rip up the carpet, you have to consider what carpet removal and replacement entails.

Once you do, everything will go swiftly. Some of the things you need include gloves, a utility knife, dust mask, hammer, duct tape, and pry bar.

The tools will be essential for successful carpet removal.

It will be much easier with this step-by-step guide…

Step 1: Remove Obstacles

First, you have to get rid of anything that might prevent you from ripping up the carpet.

Remove furniture to make a clear pathway from the room to the outside. Consider removing the skirting board if it’s an obstacle.

I would also advise you to vacuum before removing the carpet. It will reduce the amount of dust which can be a very annoying obstacle.

There should be no wall trims around the perimeter that may prevent the removal process.

Step 2: Use The Pry Bar To Pull Back The Carpet

If tack strips hold the carpet, detach it first before you start pulling it back.

The pry bar will help you get a firm grip of the carpet; once you do, you can set it aside.

Ensure you pull it back enough to a point where it will not fall back if you let go.

At this point, you will realise having an assistant is not a bad thing.

If the material is heavy, you will need someone to help you pull back. After pulling, you should cut the carpet into strips using the utility knife.

After the pieces are cut, use duct tape to secure them into rolls. Continue the same until you are done with the whole room.

If you encounter a metal transition, only cut the carpet and leave the transition. Once you have your secured rolls, you can move on to the next step.

Step 3: Remove Carpet Padding and Adhesive

Carpet padding should be lighter than the carpet, so removing it will be much simpler.

Pull back one of the padding edges, and cut it. You should be able to remove larger pieces because it is light.

When you have difficulty pulling out the carpet padding, it means it’s held to the floor by adhesive.

You can use the flat side of the pry bar to loosen the padding by forcing it between the floor and padding. You can also use a putty knife.

Step 4: Clean the Subfloor

Once you are done with the padding, you must ensure the subfloor is ready for the next carpet.

Check the tack strips; if they are in good shape, you can leave them, but if they are rusted, get rid of them.

Find out if there are any squeaky panels on the subfloor that needs to be repaired. If you find them hammer a few nails to make them secure.

Now that you have successfully removed the old carpet, you can decide what to do next.

You may refinish the hardwood or install a new carpet.

Ripping Up Your Carpet

You have to find the right tools, remove obstacles, pull the carpet and cut it before removing the padding and cleaning the subfloor.

You have to follow the steps and wear protective gear to avoid injuries.