How to Remove Carpet Padding Stuck on Hardwood Floors
Real hardwood floors are often gems covered by carpeting. Many homeowners will find them unexpectedly when they go to replace carpet or repair squeaky floorboards. If you have found hardwood floors hidden beneath carpeting, you may decide to bring them back to their original glory and luster.
Some of the carpet padding may have become stuck to the floors over time or may have been glued over the floors. With a little persistence, carpet padding can be removed from hardwood floors.
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Remove the bulk of the carpet padding by using needle nose pliers to pull out the staples. Pull off as much carpet padding as you can with your hands.
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Heat stuck-on carpet padding with a heat gun or hair dryer, taking care not to burn the floor. Scrape off with a putty knife.
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Soak an old rag in mineral spirits and apply it to the remaining stuck-on carpet padding. Once the adhesive has softened (it may take a few minutes), use the putty knife to scrape off the carpet padding.
Things You Will Need
- Needle nose pliers
- Mineral spirits
- Rags
- Heat gun or hair dryer
- Putty knife
Warning
Be careful when using mineral spirits, as prolonged inhalation may be dangerous. Wear gloves and safety goggles when using mineral spirits. Read appropriate safety information (provided as a link) before use.
Writer Bio
Heather Finch has been a freelance writer since the turn of the 21st century. Her official career began during her freshman year of college writing editorials about anything from manners to politics. Writings by Finch have appeared in the Western Herald, the Sturgis Journal and eHow.com. She has a bachelor's degree in creative writing and environmental studies.
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