How to Remove Laminate Tile

Laminate tiles are a step above vinyl flooring and are popular in many homes. Still, they must be removed if you are going to install real hardwood or ceramic tiles. It is not difficult to remove laminate tiles, although you do need to make sure that all of the adhesive is scraped off the surface before you install your new floor.

Things You'll Need

• Floor scraper or putty knife Hot water Blade knife

Instructions

1. Remove the molding along the walls so that you can access the edge of the tiles. The molding is called "quarter round" or "shoe" molding and is usually just a thin strip of wood or laminate that is laid down where the wall meets the floor.

2. Pour some hot water on the edge of the tiles and let it sit for about five minutes. If you want to save the tiles to be used later, skip this step, as it could damage the edges of the tiles.

3. Use the putty knife or floor scraper to carefully pry up the edge of the tile. The hot water will have loosened the adhesive, making it easier to remove the tile.

4. Repeat Steps 2 and 3 until all of the tiles have been removed. To make the job go faster, use the knife to score the edges of a few tiles at once, and try to remove them at the same time (for example, peel up a section that equals four tiles).

5. Scrape up any remaining glue. You may have to pour more hot water on the glue, or use a commercial adhesive remover.

Tips & Warnings

• Work in small sections. For large tiles, maybe four tiles at a time. For small tiles, one-foot-square sections work well.

Resources

• DIY Network: How to Install Laminate Flooring Tiles