How to Remove Vinyl Plank Flooring: Learn the Steps Involved!

So, you’ve decided to give your floors a makeover? Vinyl plank flooring has been a superstar in the home improvement world for a reason. It’s durable, stylish, and relatively easy to install. But what about when it’s time to say goodbye to your old vinyl planks and welcome a new look? Well, this article sheds light on how to remove vinyl plank flooring – be it a complete removal or a targeted extraction for repairs.

Before We Begin: A Close Look at The Big Picture!

Let’s talk stats. According to Market Insights, the vinyl flooring market is valued at $57,699.15 million, with a CAGR of 6.8% from 2023 to 2033. This indicates that a lot of homeowners prefer vinyl flooring and there’s a lot of vinyl planks out there, and eventually, many will need to be removed.

The good news is that removing vinyl plank flooring can be a relatively straightforward process, depending on the type of vinyl you have and how it was installed. There are two main categories:

1. Click-lock vinyl planks: These beauties interlock with a tongue-and-groove system, making installation a breeze (and removal, potentially easier!).
2. Glue-down vinyl planks: As the name suggests, these planks are secured with adhesive, making removal a bit more involved.

Salvaging vs. Sending to the Dump

Do you plan to reuse your LVP elsewhere? This will influence your removal technique. If you’re going for a clean getaway (reusing the planks), a more delicate approach is needed and you must know how to remove vinyl plank flooring for reuse.

How to Remove Vinyl Plank Flooring: A Step-by-Step Guide

Now, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty regarding how to remove vinyl plank flooring. Here are the steps you’ll need to follow, tailored to the two main installation methods:

How to Remove Vinyl Plank Flooring – Click-Lock Planks:

1. Prep Work is Key: Safety first! Clear the room of furniture and wear gloves, eye protection, and a dust mask. Having a trash bag and a pry bar (flat end recommended) handy is a good idea.
2. Finding the Starting Point: Unlike glued planks, click-lock systems offer a disassembly point. Typically, the last row installed (often near a doorway) is a good candidate. Using your pry bar, gently pry a plank up at the short end, where it connects to the previous plank.
3. The Unclicking: Once the first plank is loose, it’s like a domino effect. Carefully angle the pry bar under the long edge of the plank, near the joint, and unclick it from the neighboring plank. Remember, patience is key! Aggressive prying can damage the locking mechanism, rendering the plank unusable for reuse – so make sure you know how to remove vinyl plank flooring without damaging it.
4. Repeat and Release: Continue unclicking planks one by one, working your way inwards. If you encounter a stubborn plank, don’t force it. Sometimes, a little wiggle or a gentle tap with a rubber mallet on the opposite end can help loosen the connection.
5. Taming the Perimeter: Once you’ve reached the glued-down perimeter planks, things might get a little trickier. Here, a heat gun can be your friend. Caution: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe heat gun use. Gently warm the perimeter plank’s edge to soften the adhesive, then carefully pry it up with the flat end of your pry bar. Move slowly and be mindful of any subfloor beneath.
6. Cleaning Up the Act: Once all the planks are removed, it’s time to tackle the leftover adhesive. If you’re wondering how to remove glue from vinyl plank flooring, well – there are commercial adhesive removers available. However, always test them on an inconspicuous area first. For stubborn residue, a scraper can be helpful, but be cautious not to gouge the subfloor.

How to Remove Vinyl Plank Flooring (Glue Down System) – A Different Beast

For glued-down LVP, say goodbye to the click-and-release method. Here’s a different approach on how to remove vinyl plank flooring with glue:

1. Gearing Up for Battle: This removal process requires more muscle. You’ll need a heat gun, a putty knife, a flooring chisel, and a good amount of patience. Again, safety first – wear gloves, eye protection, and a dust mask.
2. Heat and Conquer: The heat gun is your main weapon here. Apply heat in sections to a plank, softening the adhesive. Important: Don’t overheat the vinyl, as it can warp. Aim for a low heat setting and test on a small, inconspicuous area first.
3. The Putty Knife Shuffle: Once the adhesive is softened, carefully insert the putty knife under the heated edge of the plank at an angle. Gently pry upwards, working your way along the plank as the adhesive releases. You might need to reapply heat and repeat this process section by section. Be mindful of the subfloor – avoid gouging it with the putty knife.
4. Flooring Chisel for Tough Customers: For particularly stubborn planks, a flooring chisel can be a helpful backup. Use caution! Place the chisel under the loosened edge of the plank at an angle, and gently tap it with a hammer to encourage the plank to release. Remember, aim for the adhesive bond, not the subfloor.
5. Release the Goo: Once all the planks are removed, you’ll likely be left with some residual adhesive on the subfloor. Here, a commercial adhesive remover can be your friend if you’re learning how to remove glue from vinyl plank flooring.

Choose a remover suitable for your subfloor type, and always test it in an inconspicuous area first. Following the manufacturer’s instructions, apply the remover to the adhesive residue and allow it to work its magic. Once softened, scrape away the adhesive with a scraper.

How to Remove Scratches From Vinyl Plank Flooring (Not Removal, But Helpful!)

While this guide focuses on how to remove vinyl plank flooring, here’s a quick bonus tip for those minor mishaps. If you’ve no clue how to remove scratches from vinyl plank flooring, a simple DIY can do wonders. Mix a small amount of white vinegar with olive oil to create a paste. Apply the paste to the scratch with a soft cloth and buff gently. Wipe away any residue with a clean cloth.

FAQS

How to remove carpet and install vinyl plank flooring?

Replacing carpet with vinyl plank flooring involves removing the old carpet (cut, pry, remove) and installing the new planks (choose, follow instructions, click and lock). Damaged click-lock planks can be removed by disassembling a section and tapping the short end to disengage the lock. Consult a professional if needed.

How to remove vinyl plank click flooring if it’s 10 years old?

Removing 10-year-old click-lock vinyl flooring is similar to newer ones, but expect more effort. Start from the edge, tap the short plank end to disengage the lock (use a tapping block and chisel if needed). Be patient with stubborn planks and avoid excessive force. If glued sections exist near the perimeter, use a heat gun to soften the adhesive before prying. Consider professional help for major challenges or subfloor damage

Do I need to acclimate vinyl planks before installation?

Yes, allowing the vinyl planks to adjust to the room temperature for 24-48 hours before installation is crucial. This prevents warping or gapping after installation.

What type of underlayment should I use for vinyl plank flooring?

The recommended underlayment depends on your subfloor type and the vinyl plank’s specifications. Generally, a moisture barrier is essential for most subfloors. Look for underlayment with sound dampening properties for added comfort, especially on upper floors.

How long will vinyl plank flooring last?

High-quality vinyl plank flooring can last 15-20 years or even longer with proper care and maintenance. This includes using protective mats in high-traffic areas and avoiding harsh cleaning chemicals.

The Final Word

So that’s how to remove vinyl plank flooring. It doesn’t have to be a backbreaking ordeal. Always know that the first step is identifying your installation type (click-lock or glue-down). Followed by prioritizing plank reusability if needed, and prioritizing safety with proper gear. With a little know-how, you’ll be well on your way to a smooth transition to your next flooring project.

If you think the task is too much for you – it’s better to call an expert floor installation company such as The ElmWood Flooring. You can give us a call at (773) 209-7499 to get an estimate.