How to Remove Flooring using an Electric Floor Scraper

Removing flooring is no picnic. It can be a time consuming and messy job if done by hand. But we would like to share with you a way to remove flooring easily and in less time.

The first thing you need to do is collect the right tools for the job. The easiest tool to use is an electric hammer with a floor scraper attachment. You can purchase hammers from most lumberyards. An SDS Max hammer is small and more well suited for homeowners. We carry a floor scraper attachment that is compatible with this hammer (you can find it here). You will also need a broom and dustpan for clean-up and a 5-gallon bucket or heavy-duty garbage bags would be helpful for disposal.

The next thing you need to decide is the pattern for removal. This will vary depending on the size and shape of your space, but we would suggest starting at an opening into the room and working in a straight line. It is also helpful to clean away debris as you go or have a second person cleaning up behind you.

When operating the hammer, don't hold the scraper higher than a 45-degree angle to prevent the shank going up into the hammer and causing damage. With an electric scraper you are not using it as a pry bar, so don't insert it under flooring and pull up, but rather hold it at the correct angle and push it forward. The hammer should be doing the work, not you.

Another thing to be aware of is joints and uneven areas. If you notice these before you start, be sure to mark them with a marker or paint, so you can move more slowly over them to prevent damage to the hammer of the scraper blade.

We hope these tips will help your project go smoothly and get you ready for your new flooring!

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