How Do I Remove Glued Linoleum From Hardwood Floors?

Take care when removing linoleum glue from hardwood floors.

Except for the time it takes, removing glued linoleum from hardwood floors is not much different than removing it from any other subfloor. A power sander, water soak or heat gun will easily get rid of old linoleum glue on concrete, but these methods are not an option for hardwood floors. Minimize damage to the wood by using an adhesive solvent and scrape; you'll have to refinish the floor anyway. Work slowly and patiently and you'll be able to save the underlying floor.

Things You'll Need

• Utility knife
• Work gloves
• Rubber gloves
• Heavy-duty scraper
• Linoleum glue solvent
• Mineral spirits
• Rag

Instructions

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.

Tips & Warnings

• Look for a scraper with a razor-sharp edge and replacement blades in case of breakage.

• Linoleum flooring manufactured before 1986 may contain asbestos. Do not remove linoleum you think may contain asbestos. Instead, contact a linoleum manufacturer to ascertain the likelihood that your linoleum contains asbestos. Then contact a certified asbestos removal contractor to have it removed professionally and safely.

References

• Home Addition Plus: How to Remove Linoleum - Some Easy Guidelines
• Flooring Guide: Removing Linoleum From Hardwood Floors