How to Remove Carpet in 6 Steps?

In this guide, you will find a 6-step summary for effectively removing carpet, focusing on safety, removal methods, and cleaning adhesive residues.

It also provides information on preparing carpet tiles for potential reuse and Composil's reuse and recycling services.

Is your carpet showing signs of wear and becoming dull? It might be time to consider replacing it. But how can you effectively remove your carpet to install a new one without too much difficulty, and especially on a properly prepared floor?

We provide you with some tips to follow in 6 steps 😉!

Step 1: What tools are needed to remove carpet?

Detailed list of necessary tools

To begin with, make sure you have on hand several essential tools that you will need throughout the process:

• A retractable blade knife
• A scraper
• Protective gloves
• A mask filtering dust particles

Finding the right tools is crucial to ensure careful and safe work. We recommend taking the time to purchase and prepare your equipment.

Step 2: How to remove carpet while ensuring your safety ?

Safety first

Once you have gathered all the necessary tools, you can now remove all furniture and objects from the carpeted area. This will provide you with a clear space and reduce the risk of accidental contact with heavy, sharp, or pointed objects.

Throughout the process, we also recommend wearing protective gloves and a filtering mask. Like many products and materials used in construction and renovation, adhesive, for example, can degrade and release particles into the air when removing carpet. Overall, it's always advisable to protect yourself from harmful particles or substances present in the air.

This step is important to prevent any risk of accidents that could occur if you decide to remove your carpet yourself, without hiring professionals.

Step 3: How to remove the carpet without damaging it?

There are several methods to remove carpet. In any case, we advise you to be gentle and not rush, especially if you want to preserve the structure and condition of your carpet for potential reuse.

Using a retractable blade knife

A common approach is to start from the furthest corner of the room and gently lift the carpet using a retractable blade knife. Once you have lifted a corner, continue to move forward gradually, gently pulling the carpet off the floor. Use a scraper to remove any remaining pieces of glue or adhesive while taking care not to scratch the floor.

 Using steam

Steam can be a valuable ally if you're removing your carpet yourself. Indeed, steam softens the glue, making it easier to peel off the carpet without damaging it.

If you find yourself in a situation where your carpet is excessively glued down, we recommend using steam to soften the glue and facilitate removal.

These tasks can be delicate for individuals without the necessary experience, so it's important to hire professionals and choose a qualified carpet service provider for a clean and neat result.

Step 4: What product to use to remove carpet glue residues ?

Now that your carpet is completely removed, it's crucial to "purify" your floor thoroughly of all residues, especially the glue firmly stuck on the surface. For this step, we recommend starting with a few effective products that you'll need to get.

Recommended product selections

To remove this glue, we recommend the following products:

1. Chemical adhesive removers :

   • Use chemical solvents specifically formulated to break down adhesives without damaging the floor. For example, try the adhesive remover HG Dissolvant or UHU Glue Remover.

2. Acetone :

   • Apply acetone to a cloth and rub the sticky areas. Ensure the room is well-ventilated and wear protective gloves.

3. Isopropyl Alcohol :

   • Use isopropyl alcohol to soften and remove adhesive residues. Apply the alcohol to the glue and let it sit for a few minutes before scraping.

4. Steam Cleaner :

   • Use a steam cleaner to soften the glue, making it easier to scrape off and remove.

 Usage Tips:

• Test the product on a small area first to ensure it does not damage the floor.

• Protect yourself by wearing gloves, a mask, and working in a well-ventilated area, especially when using chemical solvents.

• Allow the product to act for the recommended time to achieve the best results.

Step 5: How to clean adhesive residues after removing the carpet?

Once you have chosen the most suitable product for your situation, you will again need the previously mentioned tools for the manual procedure. Once more, we strongly encourage you to wear a respirator mask, especially for this step.

Manual Procedure

This step is crucial as its proper execution will allow you to start afresh and prepare for the installation of new carpet or another type of flooring.

Let's get started! Here are the steps to follow for effective cleaning of residues:

1. Manual Scraping of Adhesive Residues:

   • Use a scraper or spatula to remove the larger pieces of adhesive. Work carefully and precisely to avoid damaging the underlying floor.

2. Application of Dissolving Products:

   • Apply an adhesive remover to areas where the glue is particularly stubborn. Allow the product to sit for the recommended time as per the manufacturer's instructions.

3. Steam Cleaning:

   • Use a steam cleaner to soften and remove adhesive residues. The heat from the steam helps break down the glue, making scraping easier.

4. Wiping and Drying:

   • Wipe the floor with a clean, damp cloth to remove any remaining product and adhesive. Then, dry the surface with a dry cloth to prevent any lingering moisture that could affect the installation of the new carpet.

5. Final Cleaning:

   • Vacuum the floor to remove any last debris and ensure the surface is perfectly clean and smooth before installing the new carpet.

Step 6: How to prepare carpet tiles for reuse?

Inspection and Preparation for Reuse

To prepare carpet tiles for reuse, follow these steps:

• Inspect each tile to identify damaged or stained areas and set aside those in poor condition.

• Dust off the tiles using a vacuum cleaner and a soft brush to remove surface dirt and debris.
  
  
• Use a specific carpet shampoo with a rotary brush or a steam cleaner for deep cleaning.
  
  
• Treat stubborn stains with an appropriate stain remover and rinse the tiles with clean water.
  
  
• Allow the tiles to dry completely flat in a well-ventilated area, avoiding direct sunlight exposure.
  
  

• After drying, inspect the tiles again to ensure they are clean and in good condition.

• Optionally, treat the tiles with an anti-dust mite spray for additional protection.
  
  
• Stack the cleaned tiles in a dry and clean area, covering them with a tarp or cloth to protect them from dust and contaminants.

Composil's Reuse and Recycling Services

Explanation

At Composil, we have developed a comprehensive service for valorizing your carpets: the reuse and recycling of carpet tiles. With over 30 years of experience dedicated to carpets, we offer our clients a 100% circular service to maximize the protection and longevity of their investment. Among other services, we meticulously remove your carpet tiles and sort them based on their condition for optimal future use.

Quality Guarantee

Tiles in good condition are refurbished by us and then reused in the market. Tiles that are too damaged are entrusted to our various recycling partners, including the leader and pioneer Tarkett, to be recycled and transformed into raw materials for the production of new tiles.

Through our professional intervention, you streamline the removal process and ensure the floor surface is smooth and ready for the addition of a new covering. We guarantee minimal losses in terms of carpet tiles, thereby extending their lifespan, reducing waste, and cutting CO2 emissions.

Here's a summary of our solution, tailored just for you!

📋 Conclusion: 

As you have understood, removing a carpet requires patience, a well-prepared methodology, and the appropriate tools.

By following these steps, you can succeed while preserving the quality of the floor and preparing for the installation of a new covering.

5 Key Points to Remember:

1. Essential Preparation: Gather the necessary tools and ensure the work area is properly prepared.

2. Safety: Protect yourself with safety equipment and ensure the room is clear of any obstacles.

3. Choosing the Right Products: Use appropriate products to remove residues and prevent damage to the floor.

4. Residue Cleaning: After removal and using the right product, equip yourself with suitable tools to thoroughly clean the floor and minimize residues.

5. Final Inspection: Your carpet still holds value! You may not realize it, but your carpet can still be valuable in the market. Don't hesitate to consult specialists for an assessment.

Congratulations! By following these tips, you will be able to remove your carpet successfully and prepare your floor to receive a new covering.