Remove Glued Wood Floors: DIY Guide & Save!

Removing a glued wood floor can seem like a Herculean task, but with the right know-how, it’s entirely manageable. The Home Depot supplies a range of tools, including scrapers and pry bars, which are essential for this type of project. Many homeowners in Atlanta, for instance, have successfully tackled this challenge to renovate their spaces and save money. Understanding the properties of the adhesive used is crucial because different types require different removal techniques. This guide will walk you through how to remove wood floors that are glued down safely and efficiently, turning what seems like a daunting job into a rewarding DIY accomplishment.

Tackling Glued-Down Flooring: A DIYer’s Journey

Glued-down flooring. Just the words can send shivers down the spine of even seasoned DIY enthusiasts. It’s the flooring project that everyone loves to hate, the one that tests your patience, your strength, and sometimes, your sanity.

But fear not! While it’s undoubtedly a challenge, removing glued-down flooring is absolutely achievable as a DIY project. With the right approach, tools, and a healthy dose of perseverance, you can conquer this beast and save yourself a significant chunk of change in the process.

Why DIY? The Allure of the Self-Made Floor

Let’s face it: hiring a professional to remove flooring can be expensive. Labor costs add up quickly, and before you know it, you’re looking at a bill that could rival the cost of the new flooring itself.

That’s where the beauty of DIY comes in. By taking on the project yourself, you’re not only saving money, but you’re also gaining a sense of accomplishment that’s hard to match.

There’s something incredibly satisfying about transforming your space with your own two hands.

Plus, you get to learn new skills along the way. Who knows? Maybe you’ll discover a hidden talent for demolition!

Reality Check: Time, Skill, and Sweat Equity

Okay, let’s be realistic. Removing glued-down flooring isn’t a walk in the park. It requires a significant time commitment, especially if you’re dealing with a large area or particularly stubborn adhesive.

It also demands a certain level of physical fitness. Expect to be scraping, prying, and sweating for hours on end.

As for skill level, it’s fair to say that some DIY experience is helpful, but not essential. As long as you’re comfortable using basic tools and are willing to learn as you go, you should be fine.

A Word of Caution: Safety First!

Before you grab your scraper and dive in, it’s crucial to acknowledge the potential risks involved. Removing glued-down flooring can generate a lot of dust, and some adhesives may contain harmful chemicals.

Safety should always be your top priority.

Make sure you wear appropriate protective gear, including safety glasses, work gloves, and a dust mask or respirator.

Ventilation is also key, especially if you’re using solvents to soften the adhesive. Open windows and doors, and consider using a fan to circulate fresh air.

Glued-down flooring removal is within reach! Just be prepared, be safe, and get ready to transform your space.

Gearing Up: Essential Tools and Materials for the Job

Okay, you’re ready to rip up that old flooring! But before you start swinging a hammer, let’s make sure you have the right tools and materials for the job. Trust me, being prepared will save you a ton of time, frustration, and maybe even a trip to the emergency room.

Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

The Core Arsenal: Tools You Can’t Live Without

These are the absolute essentials. Don’t even think about starting without them.

• Floor Scraper/Putty Knife: This is your primary weapon. Look for one with a sturdy handle and a sharp, wide blade (3-6 inches). A flexible blade is ideal for getting under the flooring, but a stiffer one can be useful for stubborn spots.

• Hammer/Mallet: You’ll need this to tap the scraper under the flooring. A rubber mallet is gentler and helps prevent damage to your scraper.

• Heat Gun: Heat is your friend when it comes to softening adhesive. Use it carefully and avoid overheating the flooring or subfloor.

• Shop Vacuum: Glued-down flooring removal is a messy job. A shop vacuum is essential for keeping the dust and debris under control.

• Safety Glasses/Goggles: Flying debris is a real hazard. Protect your eyes! Goggles offer more complete protection than glasses.

• Work Gloves (Chemical Resistant): Protect your hands from adhesives, solvents, and sharp edges. Chemical-resistant gloves are a must if you’re using solvents.

• Dust Mask/Respirator: Breathing in dust and adhesive fumes is not good for you. A dust mask will offer some protection, but a respirator is recommended, especially if you’re dealing with older flooring that may contain asbestos (if you suspect this, get it professionally tested!)

• Knee Pads: You’ll be spending a lot of time on your knees. Trust me, your knees will thank you.

• Pry Bar/Crowbar (Use with Caution): This can be helpful for lifting larger sections of flooring, but be very careful not to damage the subfloor. Use a piece of wood as a fulcrum to protect the subfloor.

Helpful Allies: Tools That Can Make the Job Easier

These tools aren’t strictly necessary, but they can definitely speed things up and make your life easier.

• Chisel: For those really stubborn spots where the scraper just won’t cut it.

• Oscillating Multi-Tool: This versatile tool can be used to cut around obstacles, remove grout, and even scrape away adhesive.

• Reciprocating Saw (Sawzall): Great for cutting flooring into smaller, more manageable sections, especially if you’re dealing with a large area.

• Circular Saw: Similar to the Sawzall, but better for making straight cuts. Again, be careful not to cut into the subfloor.

The Solvent Solution: Breaking Down the Glue

• Solvent: A solvent can help to soften the adhesive, making it easier to scrape away. Mineral spirits, acetone, or adhesive removers are the most popular.

  • Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and work in a well-ventilated area.

  • Consider using a citrus-based solvent; it is more eco-friendly and smells better.

  • Test the solvent in an inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t damage the subfloor.

Know Your Enemy: Flooring and Adhesive Types

Finally, understanding what you’re up against—the type of flooring and adhesive used—can significantly impact your approach. Vinyl, linoleum, carpet, and tile each have unique removal challenges. Similarly, the type of adhesive varies. Some are water-based and easier to remove, while others are epoxy-based and require more aggressive methods. Identifying these materials will help you tailor your strategy for maximum efficiency.

Prepping the Space: Safety and Preparation are Key

Alright, so you’ve got your tools assembled and you’re probably itching to start tearing up that old floor. Hold your horses! This is where a lot of DIYers drop the ball, and trust me, proper preparation is half the battle (and the best way to avoid a trip to urgent care). Let’s walk through how to prep the room so your flooring removal goes smoothly and, most importantly, safely.

Clearing the Decks: Removing Everything from the Room

First things first: empty the room completely. I’m talking everything. Furniture, rugs, curtains, lamps – the works. The goal is to have a completely blank canvas to work with.

This not only gives you the space you need to maneuver, but it also protects your belongings from dust, debris, and potential damage. Trust me, you don’t want to be scrubbing adhesive off your grandmother’s antique dresser.

Creating a Fortress: Containing the Dust

Flooring removal is a messy business. Dust, debris, and potentially harmful particles will be flying everywhere. Your goal is to contain the mess as much as possible.

Sealing Off Doorways

The best way to do this is to seal off the doorway with plastic sheeting. You can buy inexpensive plastic drop cloths from any hardware store. Simply tape the plastic sheeting securely to the doorframe, creating a barrier that will prevent dust from escaping into other parts of your home.

Consider an Air Purifier

If you have one, running an air purifier in the room can also help to reduce the amount of dust in the air. It’s not a substitute for proper ventilation and sealing, but it can be a helpful addition.

Safety First: Gearing Up to Protect Yourself

This cannot be overstated: safety is paramount. Removing flooring can expose you to all sorts of hazards, from flying debris to harmful chemicals.

Essential Safety Gear

Here’s a rundown of the essential safety gear you’ll need:

• Safety Glasses/Goggles: Protect your eyes from flying debris. This is non-negotiable.
• Work Gloves (Chemical Resistant): Protect your hands from sharp objects and potential irritants in the adhesive.
• Dust Mask/Respirator: Protect your lungs from dust and harmful particles. A basic dust mask is better than nothing, but a respirator with a particulate filter is highly recommended, especially if you’re dealing with older flooring.
• Knee Pads: You’ll be spending a lot of time on your knees, so protect them! Your joints will thank you.

Breathe Easy: The Importance of Ventilation

Many adhesives contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can be harmful to your health. Proper ventilation is crucial to minimize your exposure to these chemicals.

Opening Windows and Doors

Whenever possible, open windows and doors to create cross-ventilation. This will help to circulate fresh air and remove fumes from the room.

Using Fans

If opening windows isn’t enough, use fans to help circulate air. Position fans to blow air out of the room, directing fumes and dust away from your work area.

Solvent-Specific Ventilation

Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for any solvents you’re using. Some solvents require specific ventilation measures, so be sure to read the label carefully.

By taking the time to properly prepare the space, you’ll not only make the flooring removal process easier and more efficient, but you’ll also protect yourself and your home from potential hazards. So, gear up, seal off the room, and get ready to tackle that old flooring!

Alright, so you’ve got your tools assembled and you’re probably itching to start tearing up that old floor.

Hold your horses! This is where a lot of DIYers drop the ball, and trust me, proper preparation is half the battle (and the best way to avoid a trip to urgent care).

Let’s walk through how to…

The Removal Process: Step-by-Step Guide

Okay, so you’ve prepped the room, donned your safety gear, and are ready to wage war on that stubborn flooring. The key here is to be methodical and patient. This isn’t a sprint; it’s a marathon.

Let’s get to it!

Softening the Adhesive: Your First Line of Attack

The first order of business is to soften that glue. You’re not going to get anywhere trying to brute-force your way through completely dried adhesive. Trust me, I’ve tried it – you’ll just end up with a sore back and a barely-moved floor.

Here’s how to weaken that tenacious bond:

Heat Gun Method: Gentle Warmth and Persuasion

The heat gun is your friend.

Set it to a low or medium setting and move it slowly and steadily over a small section of the flooring (think a square foot or so).

Don’t hold it in one spot for too long, or you risk scorching the flooring or even the subfloor.

The goal is to warm up the adhesive just enough to make it pliable. As you heat, use your floor scraper to test the area.

If it starts to give way with moderate pressure, you’re on the right track. Scrape as you go, reheating as needed.

Solvent Application: Chemical Warfare (the Safe Way)

Solvents can be very effective.

But always, always read the manufacturer’s instructions and take necessary safety precautions (ventilation, gloves, respirator, etc.).

Apply the solvent liberally to a small area and let it sit for the recommended time. This allows the solvent to penetrate and break down the adhesive.

Again, test with your scraper. The flooring should lift much more easily. You may need to reapply the solvent for particularly stubborn areas.

Important Note: When using a solvent, follow safety guidelines and always keep pets and children away from the area.

The Moisture Factor: A Word of Caution

Moisture can be a double-edged sword.

On one hand, excessive moisture can weaken the adhesive over time (hence why flooring sometimes peels up on its own in damp areas).

On the other hand, introducing more moisture isn’t always the answer.

Too much water can damage the subfloor. If you suspect moisture is already an issue, try to address the source before you start removing the flooring.

The Scraping Process: Angle, Pressure, and Patience

Once the adhesive is softened, it’s time to scrape.

This is where your floor scraper and a little elbow grease come in.

Finding the Right Angle

The angle of attack is crucial.

Hold the scraper at a low angle (almost parallel to the floor) and apply firm, steady pressure.

Experiment to find the sweet spot where the scraper glides under the flooring without digging into the subfloor.

The Importance of Patience

This process takes time.

Don’t rush it. Working methodically in small sections will yield much better results and minimize damage.

If you get tired, take a break. You’re more likely to make mistakes when you’re fatigued.

Dealing with Stubborn Areas: When All Else Fails

Inevitably, you’ll encounter areas where the flooring just won’t budge. Don’t panic! Here are a few tricks to try:

The Chisel Approach: Precision Removal

For small, localized areas, a chisel can be your best friend.

Position the chisel at the edge of the stubborn flooring and tap it gently with a hammer or mallet.

The goal is to break the adhesive bond without damaging the subfloor.

Alternative Methods: When Muscle Isn’t Enough

Oscillating Multi-Tool: An oscillating multi-tool with a scraper attachment can be very effective for removing adhesive residue.

Needle Nose Pliers: Using needle nose pliers and working by pulling back can be useful.

Subfloor Damage: Proceed with Caution

Be extremely careful not to damage the subfloor during the removal process. Gouges, cracks, and uneven surfaces will need to be repaired before you can install new flooring.

If you’re unsure about a particular method, err on the side of caution and try something less aggressive.

Remember, a little extra time spent now can save you a lot of headaches (and money) later.

Good luck, and happy scraping!

Alright, so you’ve conquered the glued-down flooring removal – awesome job! But don’t think you’re done just yet. What lies beneath that old flooring is just as important as the new surface you’re planning. This stage is all about setting up an ideal foundation.

What good is that fancy new vinyl or laminate if it’s sitting on a lumpy, uneven surface? Not much, trust me. Subfloor preparation is the unsung hero of any flooring project. It’s the key to a long-lasting, beautiful result.

Let’s walk through the critical steps to ensure your subfloor is ready for its close-up:

Subfloor Preparation: Creating a Smooth Foundation

The Initial Cleanup: Vacuuming Like You Mean It

The first order of business: get rid of all the debris. I’m talking dust, chunks of old adhesive, rogue nails, the works. A shop vacuum is your best friend here. Don’t just give it a quick once-over; thoroughness is key.

Imagine trying to lay a new floor over a bed of grit and grime. Not ideal, right? Use a crevice tool to get into every corner and along the edges where the wall meets the subfloor. Vacuum multiple times, moving in different directions. Your new floor will thank you.

Adhesive Removal: The Sticky Situation

Even after a valiant scraping effort, you’re bound to have stubborn adhesive remnants clinging to the subfloor. Now’s the time to tackle them. You’ve got a few options here, each with its pros and cons:

Scraping

For smaller areas of residue, a good old-fashioned scraper can work wonders. Use a sharp blade and apply consistent pressure, working at a low angle. It’s tedious, but effective for small amounts.

Grinding

For larger areas or more stubborn adhesive, a floor grinder (with the appropriate abrasive pad) can be a lifesaver. Be cautious, though! Grinding can create a lot of dust. Wear a proper respirator and consider using a vacuum attachment to minimize the mess.

Chemical Floor Stripper

If you’re dealing with a particularly thick or resilient adhesive, a chemical floor stripper might be necessary. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, and always prioritize ventilation. These chemicals can be harsh, so proper safety gear is essential: gloves, eye protection, and a respirator.

Damage Assessment: Spotting the Problems

With the adhesive gone, you can get a clear view of the subfloor itself. Now’s the time to play detective. Look for any signs of damage:

• Water stains: These could indicate leaks that need to be addressed before you install new flooring.
• Soft spots: These indicate rot or weakness and likely need replacing.
• Cracks or holes: These need to be filled and leveled for a smooth, even surface.

Repairing the Subfloor: Fixing the Foundation

Depending on the type and extent of the damage, you’ll need to take appropriate action. Here are a few common scenarios:

• Replacing damaged sections: If you find rot or extensive water damage, the affected section of the subfloor might need to be cut out and replaced with a new piece of plywood or OSB.
• Filling cracks and holes: Use a wood filler or patching compound designed for flooring applications to fill any cracks or holes in the subfloor. Let it dry completely and sand it smooth.
• Securing loose boards: If you find any loose or squeaky boards, drive screws through them into the floor joists below to secure them.

Leveling the Playing Field: Creating a Flat Surface

Even if your subfloor looks perfectly fine to the naked eye, it might have slight imperfections that could affect the finished floor. That’s where leveling compound comes in.

• Self-leveling compound: This liquid mixture is poured onto the subfloor and spreads out to create a perfectly level surface. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, and be sure to seal any cracks or holes to prevent the compound from leaking through.
• Feather finish: A feather finish is ideal for filling in small imperfections.

Leveling compound is your secret weapon for addressing minor dips and uneven spots. It creates a smooth, uniform surface that ensures your new flooring looks its best and lasts for years to come.

The Final Sanding: Ensuring Adhesion

Before installing your new floor, give the subfloor one final sanding with fine-grit sandpaper. This creates a slightly rough surface that helps the adhesive bond properly, ensuring a strong and long-lasting installation.

The Ultimate Vacuuming: For Real This Time

Dust is the enemy of good adhesion. Vacuum every surface of the subfloor and pay extra attention to the corners. You may even consider running a damp cloth across the surface to pick up any remaining particles.

By following these steps, you’ll create a solid, level, and clean foundation for your new flooring, setting you up for a successful and beautiful finished product. Remember, patience and attention to detail are key!

Cleaning Up and Wrapping Up: The Final Touches

Alright, so you’ve conquered the glued-down flooring removal – awesome job! But don’t think you’re done just yet.

What lies beneath that old flooring is just as important as the new surface you’re planning.

This stage is all about setting up an ideal foundation.

What good is that fancy new vinyl or laminate if it’s sitting on a lumpy, uneven surface?

The Art of Responsible Disposal

Let’s face it: removing flooring creates a lot of waste.

From the old flooring itself to the adhesive residue and even your disposable gloves, you’ve got a pile of stuff that needs to go somewhere.

But where?

Here’s the deal: tossing everything into your regular trash bin isn’t always the best (or even legal) option.

Different municipalities have different regulations, so it’s crucial to do your homework.

Start by contacting your local waste management authority or checking their website.

This will help you understand what materials they accept, if there are any specific disposal requirements, and whether you need to take certain items to a designated recycling center or hazardous waste facility.

For example, some adhesives might be considered hazardous waste due to their chemical composition.

Similarly, certain types of flooring, like vinyl, might be recyclable in some areas.

Consider renting a dumpster if you have a significant amount of waste to dispose of.

It’s often the most convenient solution, especially for larger projects.

Just be sure to check with the rental company about any restrictions on the types of materials you can put in the dumpster.

The Final Inspection: Is Your Canvas Ready?

Think of your subfloor as a painter’s canvas.

Before you start applying the masterpiece, you need to ensure the surface is clean, smooth, and ready to receive the paint.

The same principle applies here.

Before you even think about unrolling that new flooring, grab your shop light and get down on your hands and knees (knee pads, remember!).

Conduct a thorough inspection of the entire subfloor.

Are there any remaining bits of adhesive clinging on for dear life?

Any sneaky nails or staples poking up?

Any cracks or uneven spots you missed earlier?

Address these issues now.

A simple pass with a scraper or putty knife can often do the trick for minor adhesive residue.

A hammer can take care of those stray nails or staples.

A leveling compound is your best friend for filling in cracks and smoothing out uneven surfaces.

Pay special attention to the perimeter of the room and any areas where you had particularly stubborn adhesive removal challenges.

These are the spots most likely to harbor hidden debris or imperfections.

Once you’re satisfied that the subfloor is as smooth and clean as possible, give it one final pass with the shop vacuum.

This will remove any lingering dust or debris that could interfere with the adhesion of your new flooring.

Breathe Easy: The Importance of Air Quality

Remember all those solvents and dust you stirred up during the removal process?

Even after cleaning, residual odors and particles can linger in the air.

Open windows and doors to ventilate the space thoroughly.

Consider using an air purifier to help remove any remaining airborne contaminants.

This is especially important if you have allergies or sensitivities to chemicals.

Finally, give yourself a pat on the back.

You’ve successfully removed your old flooring and prepared the subfloor for its next chapter.

Take a moment to appreciate your hard work and get excited about the transformation to come.

Alright, so you’ve conquered the glued-down flooring removal – awesome job! But don’t think you’re done just yet.

What lies beneath that old flooring is just as important as the new surface you’re planning.

This stage is all about setting up an ideal foundation.

What good is that fancy new vinyl or laminate if it’s installed on a poorly prepared subfloor? Let’s dive into potential problems and how to sidestep them.

Considerations and Potential Issues: Avoiding Common Mistakes

Removing glued-down flooring can be trickier than it looks on those home improvement shows.

It’s not just about brute force; it’s about strategy and knowing what to avoid. Let’s talk about some common pitfalls and how to navigate them successfully.

The Subfloor is Your Foundation: Protect It!

The most critical thing to remember is the subfloor is the base for everything.

Think of it as the foundation of your house: if it’s damaged, everything built on top will suffer.

Aggressively hacking away at the old flooring can easily gouge or splinter the subfloor.

These imperfections will telegraph through to your new flooring, creating an uneven and unprofessional look.

Recognizing Subfloor Damage

Keep an eye out for:

• Deep scratches or gouges.
• Splintering or crumbling.
• Water damage or rot (especially around edges).
• Loose or squeaky areas.

Damage Control

If you do accidentally damage the subfloor, don’t panic!

Small scratches can often be filled with wood filler or patching compound.

Larger areas may require more extensive repairs, like replacing sections of the subfloor.

Consider consulting with a professional if you’re unsure about the best course of action.

Common Removal Mistakes: Learn from Others

Rushing the job is a recipe for disaster.

Here are some common mistakes people make when removing glued-down flooring:

• Not using enough heat or solvent: Trying to scrape up cold, dry adhesive is an exercise in futility (and back pain!).
• Using the wrong tools: A flimsy putty knife is no match for stubborn adhesive. Invest in quality tools.
• Applying too much force: Gentle persuasion is often more effective than brute strength, especially near the subfloor.
• Ignoring safety precautions: Protect your eyes, hands, and lungs!
• Forgetting to take breaks: This is physically demanding work.

The Importance of Pacing Yourself

Removing glued-down flooring is a marathon, not a sprint.

It can be tiring work, and it’s easy to get impatient and start rushing.

However, pushing yourself too hard can lead to mistakes and injuries.

• Take frequent breaks: Get up, stretch, and walk around.
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water.
• Listen to your body: If you’re feeling pain, stop and rest.
• Spread the work over several days: There’s no shame in breaking the project into smaller chunks.

By avoiding these common pitfalls and pacing yourself, you’ll be well on your way to a successful flooring removal project. Remember, patience and careful attention to detail are key!

Cost and Benefits: Is DIY Flooring Removal Worth It?

Alright, so you’ve conquered the glued-down flooring removal – awesome job!

But don’t think you’re done just yet.

What lies beneath that old flooring is just as important as the new surface you’re planning.

This stage is all about setting up an ideal foundation.

What good is that fancy new vinyl or laminate if it’s installed on a poorly prepared surface?

Let’s talk brass tacks.

Is tackling this project yourself really worth the sweat, the potential backache, and the time commitment?

Let’s break down the financial side and weigh it against the value of your time and sanity.

DIY vs. Professional: The Bottom Line

The most compelling reason many homeowners opt for DIY flooring removal is, plain and simple, money.

Hiring a professional flooring contractor can easily set you back between $3 to $8 per square foot for removal alone.

That’s a significant chunk of change, especially if you’re dealing with a large area.

On the other hand, going the DIY route means you primarily pay for tools and materials.

The start-up investment might feel scary.

However, the overall cost is typically substantially lower.

Let’s look at a rough breakdown:

• Professional Removal (estimated): For a 500 sq ft room, expect to pay $1,500 – $4,000.
• DIY Removal (estimated):
  • Tool Rental/Purchase: $50 – $200 (depending on what you already own).
  • Solvents/Supplies: $30 – $100.
  • Disposal Fees (if any): $0 – $50.
  • Total: $80 – $350.

As you can see, the savings can be considerable.

Factoring in the Non-Monetary Costs

Before you jump for joy at the potential savings, remember that time is money.

DIY flooring removal is labor-intensive.

Are you willing to dedicate a weekend (or several) to the project?

Consider your physical capabilities as well.

This task involves a lot of bending, scraping, and potentially working in awkward positions.

If you have back problems or other physical limitations, hiring a professional might be a worthwhile investment in your well-being.

On the flip side, DIY offers a great sense of accomplishment.

There is a certain satisfaction that comes from doing the job yourself!

You are also in full control of the process.

Estimating Your Material Needs: Don’t Get Caught Short

Accurately estimating your material needs is crucial for a successful and cost-effective DIY project.

Running out of solvent halfway through the job can be a major headache.

Here’s a simple guide:

• Solvent: Check the product label for coverage estimates (square feet per gallon). Always buy a little extra to account for variations in adhesive thickness.
• Safety Gear: These should be purchased outright. Consider them an investment if you plan to tackle more home improvement projects.
• Disposal: Research local regulations for disposing of construction waste. Factor in any associated fees.

When to Call in the Pros

Despite the cost savings, there are scenarios where hiring a professional is the smarter choice:

• Asbestos Concerns: If you suspect the old flooring or adhesive contains asbestos, do not attempt to remove it yourself. Asbestos removal requires specialized training and equipment. Contact a qualified professional immediately.
• Extensive Subfloor Damage: If you uncover significant damage to the subfloor, a professional can assess the problem and recommend the appropriate repairs.
• Time Constraints: If you’re under a tight deadline to complete the project, hiring a professional can save you valuable time and ensure the job is done efficiently.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to DIY or hire a professional comes down to your budget, your skills, your physical capabilities, and your time.

Weigh the pros and cons carefully to make the best choice for your situation.

So, there you have it! Removing glued wood floors isn’t exactly a walk in the park, but with a little elbow grease and the right tools, you can definitely tackle this project yourself. Hopefully, this guide has given you the confidence to get started and save some serious cash. Now get out there and reclaim your subfloor!