How to remove vinyl flooring

Vinyl flooring is popular for its durability, affordability, and its easy installation. If you’ve moved into a new home and are looking for a change of scenery, or if your existing vinyl floors need replacing, you may want to remove your vinyl and update your room’s décor. It’s important to know how to properly remove vinyl floors, as the wrong method could damage your subfloor or make a new installation more difficult.

Our guide will explain everything you need to know before you remove vinyl flooring, from the tools you’ll need, to the options for replacing your floors. Read on for a step-by-step guide on removing vinyl floors from your home.

When to remove your vinyl flooring

Typically, sheet vinyl flooring can last between 10 and 20 years with the right level of care. If your floors have been damaged, though, then you may need to repair your vinyl flooring or replace it sooner. Here are some signs that you may need new vinyl flooring:

Warping, curling, or bubbling

While vinyl flooring is highly water-resistant, it can still be prone to moisture damage over time, which will cause your floors to expand. This is likely to leave pockets of air underneath your vinyl, or it will curl the edges of your sheets. While these can be fixed in small amounts, extensive warping is a sign that you may need to replace your flooring.

Deep tears and gouges

Similarly, small tears and scratches in vinyl flooring can be repaired by replacing the affected area with a new sheet. However, large and deep tears are much harder to fix, and may lead to your vinyl needing a replacement.

Stains and fading

Removing stains from vinyl flooring is usually relatively simple, but some deep-set stains are much tougher to get out. Plus, when exposed to direct sunlight for too long, your vinyl flooring’s image layer can begin to fade and lose its visual appeal. If your stained or faded vinyl is affecting the look of your room, it’s time to remove it.

An uneven surface

When laying vinyl flooring, it’s important to make sure your subfloor is level, clean, and even. Issues with your subfloor can lead to your vinyl flooring squeaking when walked on, and can make your surfaces feel uneven. Removing your vinyl flooring and levelling your subfloor can help you avoid these issues in future.

What do you need for removing vinyl flooring?

Here’s a list of tools you’ll need before you remove your vinyl flooring:

• Utility knife
• Mallet/hammer
• Pry bar
• Heat gun
• Scraper
• Wood block
• Work gloves and protective clothing

A heat gun is a useful tool, but it’s extremely important to be careful when using it. Don’t use the heat gun near flammable materials, and make sure to wear gloves at all times to avoid burning yourself.

How to remove glued vinyl flooring

Now that you’re prepared, follow our step-by-step guide for removing vinyl flooring easily:

1. Clear the area – Take any furniture and obstacles out of your room so that you can lift your vinyl flooring without obstruction.
2. Remove any trims – Skirting boards and baseboards can get in the way when trying to remove vinyl. Cut any sealant along the wall with a utility knife, then gently pull the board away from the wall using a flat pry bar and a mallet. Placing a wood block behind the bar can help to protect the wall.
3. Start cutting your vinyl towards the centre of the room – When installing vinyl flooring, you typically only need to use adhesive on the edges of your room. This means that the centre will be the easiest area to lift. Begin making cuts towards the centre of the room, starting about 8 inches from your walls. Make sure to keep these cuts parallel to the wall, and cut in narrow strips to make your vinyl easier to lift.
4. Start lifting – Once you’ve made a series of small stripes, start gently pulling each strip up. Some parts of your vinyl may still have adhesive attached, so use a scraper to loosen any strips that are harder to lift. You can also use a heat gun to warm the surface of the vinyl in small sections, then pulling the flooring back.
5. Remove adhesive from your subfloor – Your subfloor will likely have some leftover glue once you’ve removed your vinyl, so make sure to clean it off once you’ve finished lifting your sheets. Mix warm water with soap and cover the affected area evenly, leaving your solution to soak in for a while. This will help to soften the glue, which can then be removed with a scraper. Your heat gun can also help to soften the glue for a quicker method.
6. Clean your room – Finish by vacuuming or sweeping any dirt and debris that has been left behind by the removal process.

What can you replace vinyl flooring with?

Before we explain how to take up vinyl flooring, it’s important to consider what materials you’ll be replacing your floors with. One important distinction to remember is that LVT and sheet vinyl are different materials with their own pros and cons, despite both being made from vinyl.

You can replace your vinyl floors with any flooring material you like, but each material has different properties, meaning they may have pros and cons compared to sheet vinyl. Consider your options to see which material may be best for your room, or read our run-down of the top flooring trends for inspiration. 

Conclusion

You should now know how to remove vinyl flooring in your home without damaging your room or your subfloor. Remember to be safe when handling your tools, and always call a professional if you don’t feel confident in your DIY abilities.

Looking for replacement vinyl flooring in your home? Trust Flooring King to provide the best brands in the UK at an affordable price. From wood effect sheet vinyl, to tile effect vinyl flooring, we offer a range of designs to give your home the best look possible. Browse our range of flooring today to find your ideal fit, or get in touch with one of our experts to see how we can help.
Still need more advice? Our vinyl flooring guide explains all you need to know about this durable flooring option. You can also learn how to revive an old vinyl tile floor to refresh your room without needing to replace your flooring.