Is it time for a new carpet? Do you want to save some money? Then use DIY tips and tricks to get rid of it. There are a few steps you can follow easily during such a carpet removal project.
You’ll be surprised how easy it is to rip up carpets when you actually use DIY carpet removal tips and tricks. All it takes is to start with one corner and use these tricks to remove the carpet in no time.
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Get the Right Tools for Carpet Removal
You can’t complete a carpet removal project without the right tools and equipment. Otherwise, you’ll end up either hurting yourself or doing a terrible job. For personal protection, you’ll need heavy-duty work gloves and masks.
When you’re handling tack strips, you could easily hurt your hand without gloves on. Also, when you’re dealing with an old carpet that’s been around for a while, dust is something you may not prevent. Therefore, the only way to safeguard your health is to wear a mask.
Starting the job requires equipment such as pliers, a utility knife, etc. All of these items play a role in a smooth carpet removal project.
Locate a Corner to Start the Carpet Removal
It’s easier when you start the carpet removal project from one end of the room as opposed to the middle. Cut a section of the carpet using the knife on one corner and begin to pull. This will make it faster for the rest of the sections to come off easily.
Pull it up
Pulling up follows the cutting of the carpet from one end of the room. You’ll use a pair of pliers for this procedure to rip it off the tack strip as you hold it down. Back away from the starting corner as you rip it up.
Immediately you have about three to five feet of carpet, you can now begin cutting it up in strips. Cutting them in such trips makes it easier for you during disposal. After all, you’ll need to dispose of the carpet in the end.
Get a Dumpster or Garbage Bag
After the carpet removal, you’ll need a way of disposing of the remnant junk. Leaving the items on the curb isn’t a good idea unless you’ve talked to the city’s management and reached a consensus. The best option, therefore, is to rent a dumpster or get garbage bags. The latter would be cumbersome since you’ll need several of them to hold all of the remaining pieces.
The most feasible option, in this case, is to rent a dumpster. A 10-yard dumpster is enough to sustain the entire flooring project. The best part about a dumpster is that you work at your own pace. You could complete the project in a week, or opt to just do it in several days – the choice remains yours.
Once you’re done with the carpet removal project and the dumpster, you can call the company to come to haul it away. The costs range depending on the company you choose, that’s why it would help if you compared rates beforehand. One pro tip is to never fill the dumpster to the brim. Aside from spilling over, it may attract a fine or extra charge from the waste company.
Work With Caution during the Carpet Removal
This is not a life and death job, but you’ll still need to take precautions and care. For instance, with the garbage bags that you bought, toss the scraps inside as you move from one point to the next.
To prevent damage to the floor, try and ensure that you remove the tacks carefully. This should especially be the case when you intend to maintain the floor after the carpet removal project. Also, when you’re dealing with hardwood floors, you have to be extra cautious.
Again, this level of care comes in handy when you’re getting new carpeting. You’ll end up saving some significant amount of money in the end.
Handle the Finishing Touches Effectively
After the carpet removal project, you’ll have some leftover padding and pieces all over the floor. You’ll need to remove them, especially when you plan to install a new carpet. Even if you’re retaining the current flooring, you won’t leave it in a mess, of course.
Some carpet removal companies offer the cleaning for free. However, if you’re working on your own, then you should get some help from friends or family. Because clearing the entire house on your own may be a tall order.
Take your Time and Work within your Limits
Only you know how strong you are, and your level of stamina. If you can’t finish up the project in a week, don’t hurt yourself trying to do so. There’s no hurry and you’re not competing with anyone – take your time.
Final Thoughts
Wrapping up, carpet removal shouldn’t be your hassle this week, especially when you apply the tips and tricks above.