How Do I Remove Glued Linoleum From Hardwood Floors?
- 1). Remove the linoleum with a utility knife, cutting it into manageable strips or sections. Be careful not to cut through the linoleum and glue to the underlying hardwood. Then pry up the linoleum. (Your scraper can help you lift the lip on the edges.)
- 2). Apply a solvent to the hard, dried linoleum glue. Mineral spirits will work to soften and dissolve tar-based (dark brown) linoleum adhesive, so wipe on a generous amount. For lighter colored adhesive, check your local home improvement store for linoleum glue solvents or removers. Then apply them to the glue according to the manufacturer's instructions. Start with a small, easy-to-manage section. Once the glue is removed (following the instructions in steps 3 and 4), apply the solvent to another section.
- 3). Scrape up the bulk of the linoleum glue with your scraper once it has softened. Reapply the solvent to glue that is still hard. To minimize the damage to the hardwood, hold the scraper as parallel to the ground as you can while maintaining full blade contact with the floor. Use long, deliberate strokes and work slowly to minimize nicks and scratches.
- 4). Wipe up any residual glue with a rag soaked in the solvent.
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