Removing Wall-to-Wall Carpet

Removing old carpet is the classic weekend project that delivers immediate, high-impact results. Whether you are prepping for hardwood installation or simply reclaiming the character of an original floor, the process is straightforward but physically demanding. It's less about finesse and more about managing the sheer bulk of old materials. Done well, this process leaves your subfloor clean and ready for its next life, with all staples removed and the perimeter clear of debris. Take your time with the edges to avoid damaging your baseboards, and keep a heavy-duty pair of gloves on throughout the entire process to protect your hands from carpet backing and tack strip nails.

1. Slice Into Manageable Strips. Use a sharp utility knife to slice the carpet into long, 3-foot wide strips. Push the blade deep enough to cut through the backing, working in straight lines to make rolling easier.
2. Haul Out The Heavy Rolls. Starting from a corner, pull up the carpet strips and roll them tightly. Use duct tape to secure each roll so it doesn't unspool while you move it out of the room.
3. Strip Away The Underlayment. Roll up the foam or felt padding underneath. Most padding will be stapled or glued down; pull firmly but keep your leverage low to avoid splintering the subfloor.
4. Pry Out The Perimeter Strips. Use a pry bar to lift the tack strips nailed along the perimeter of the room. Position the pry bar directly under the nails to pop them out without cracking the baseboards.
5. Remove Every Last Staple. Use a flat-head screwdriver or a staple puller to remove the thousands of remaining staples from the subfloor. This is tedious, but essential for a smooth finished floor.
6. Vacuum Clean To The Subfloor. Vacuum the entire subfloor thoroughly with a shop vac to remove dust, grit, and debris. Inspect the subfloor for any rot or loose sections that need repair before moving on to new flooring.