How to Remove and Replace Vinyl Flooring

Vinyl flooring is a great option for homeowners. It’s low maintenance and ideal for areas that experience high levels of moisture — such as kitchens and bathrooms. However, vinyl can easily become worn and tattered. When this happens, it’s time to remove your old vinyl flooring and replace it.

In this guide, we give you step by step instructions for removing and replacing old vinyl floors.

Tools You’ll Need

● Flat pry bar

● Hammer or mallet

● Utility knife

● Heat gun or adhesive remover

● Work gloves

● Wood block

Step 1: Remove Baseboard Trim

Sometimes the baseboards are installed over the vinyl. In this case, remove the baseboards in order to remove the vinyl flooring. To do this, place a wood block a few inches above the baseboard. Next, place the wide end of the pry bar where the baseboard meets the wall. With a mallet or hammer, gently tap the top of the pry bar to force it under the trim. Then, slowly pry the trim away.

Tip: If you want to reuse the trim, mark the back of the trim with its location for easier reinstallation.

Step 2: Start in the Center of the Room

Oftentimes, when vinyl flooring is installed, only a 6-inch perimeter is glued down. This means the center of the vinyl flooring stays loose. Therefore, it’s best to start working in the middle of the room.

Use a utility knife to make a cut straight down the middle of your floor — 8 inches away from the walls. Be sure to keep your cuts parallel to the walls.

Step 3: Cut Flooring into Strips

Make narrow cuts that are about 12 inches apart. Cutting small strips will make removing the vinyl easier. Once cut, gently lift the vinyl until you reach adhesive near the perimeter. Use a scraper to loosen the vinyl from the adhesive. If you’re having a hard time pulling off the vinyl, use a pry bar and hammer to chisel away at the adhesive.

As you chip away at the old adhesive, use your other hand to peel back the vinyl. Be sure that you are removing the full thickness of the flooring and not the vinyl sheet.