Pulling up old linoleum is harder than installing it. Some homeowners skip the trouble by laying new flooring directly over the existing surface. This adds at least 1/4 inch (6.35 mm) to your floor height. If that extra height doesn’t fit your doorways or transitions, you need to scrape. Expect a lot of crawling.
Before you grab a knife, check for asbestos. Older floors often contain these fibers for durability. If the material crumbles during removal, you’re breathing hazardous particles. A lab test confirms presence, but if your house was built before 1980, assume the adhesive contains asbestos. Do not remove asbestos-containing adhesive yourself. Local regulations typically ban homeowners from this task. You will need a licensed contractor.
How to Cut and Lift Linoleum Strips
Prepare your tools. You need a utility knife, a flat narrow putty knife, and stiff scrapers. Wear eye protection and work gloves.
- Cut the linoleum into strips. Aim for widths between 6 and 12 inches (15.2 to 30.5 cm).
- Use the putty knife to lift one edge of a strip.
- Pull the rest of the strip away. Pry up stubborn sections with the knife.
- Repeat until the entire surface is gone.
Why Scaping Adhesive Is the Hardest Part
The linoleum comes off relatively easily. The glue underneath is the real challenge. This step is slow and physically demanding. Work in small sections. Use a stiff scraper to remove the backing and adhesive. If you feel like you are making no progress, you are not alone.
How to Handle Stubborn Adhesive
Chemical solvents handle what the scraper misses. Read the product label carefully. Ventilation is non-negotiable here. Open windows. Use fans to push air out. Follow the directions on the can to the letter.
Asbestos remains the biggest risk in this project. If you are unsure about the material, stop. Call a professional. The health hazard outweighs the cost of a contractor.
Will your floor be completely smooth after scraping? Maybe not. Some texture will remain. That is usually fine for new flooring. Just make sure it is stable and dry before you start the next phase.
