How to Remove Laminate Flooring Like a Pro: Step-by-Step Guide for Homeowners and DIYers in the US

Thinking about pulling up your old laminate flooring? Whether you’re renovating, planning a fresh look, or dealing with water damage, removing laminate flooring isn’t as intimidating as it seems—especially if you know the right process. As someone who’s tackled dozens of these projects for clients and my own home, I’ll walk you through every step, share key mistakes to avoid, and sprinkle in a few tips for saving time and stress. Ready to roll up your sleeves?

Project Planning: Assess Before You Start

First things first: know what you’re working with. Laminate flooring generally uses a floating installation method—not glued to the subfloor—unless you have older glued-down laminate. Start by inspecting your floor around the edges (especially under baseboards and molding) to see how the planks are connected. You’ll often find they snap together, making removal much easier. Gather essential tools: pry bar, utility knife, hammer or mallet, pliers, and heavy-duty gloves.

If you want to visualize your new space or experiment with layout before pulling the planks, try sketching your ideas using a free floor plan creator. It’s always smart to map out your project and estimate how long it’ll take—most living rooms can be cleared in 2–4 hours, while kitchens and tricky nooks may take longer.

How to Remove Laminate Flooring Step-by-Step

1. Prepare the Area: Remove all furniture. Take out baseboards or molding with a pry bar, starting gently to avoid wall damage. Keep undamaged trim for reuse later.

2. Identify the Starter Plank: Locate a spot near the wall where you can easily lift a plank. Most floating laminate has expansion gaps for this reason—offering space to wedge your pry bar under the edge.

3. Remove the First Row: Slide the pry bar under the plank and gently lift until it pops out. Once the first plank is up, others fall into line quickly.

4. Continue Across the Room: Work row by row, stacking planks as you go. For glued laminate, use a utility knife to score the joints before prying up.

5. Check for Underlayment: Some floors have a foam underlay or vapor barrier beneath. Decide if you’re reusing it or tossing it—often, it’s best to replace for optimal sound and moisture protection.

6. Clean Up: Sweep up debris, nails, and dust for a fresh slate. Now’s a great time to check the subfloor for any signs of damage or unevenness before installing new flooring.

Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them

One rookie error? Forgetting to check for hidden nails under planks—this can gouge your subfloor. Always keep an eye out for tack strips or staples, especially around doorways. If you hit resistance, stop and reassess instead of yanking, which could chip trim or the planks themselves.

Another common issue: damaging your wall when prying off baseboards. Work slowly, use a wide putty knife, and be patient. If you’re stripping laminate from a kitchen or bath, watch out for water-damaged planks—they can crumble or stick, needing a little extra coaxing.

Best Free Tools for Beginners

Not sure you have all the right equipment? Start basic: pry bar, mallet, utility knife, tape measure, and heavy gloves are non-negotiables. For tougher jobs, a small oscillating tool helps cut through stubborn glue. If you want to visualize the project before starting, try a 2D floor planner online—it’ll help you estimate the scope and plan your next steps with confidence.

Case Study: Kitchen Laminate Removal in Minneapolis

Last year, I helped a homeowner in Minneapolis remove a water-damaged laminate kitchen floor. Her biggest challenge was hidden mold beneath the planks. We used standard tools plus a moisture meter to identify trouble spots. By lifting the flooring row-by-row and swapping in new underlayment, we finished in one afternoon—and her new space is now healthier, brighter, and ready for gatherings.

If you ever run into stubborn floor adhesives or tricky layouts, consulting a room planner can help. You’ll avoid costly mistakes by understanding how your space works before you start the actual tear-out.

FAQ

1. How long does it take to remove laminate flooring in a living room?
2. Most standard rooms take around 2–4 hours. Larger or more complicated spaces (with lots of trim or glue) can take longer.
3. Can I reuse my underlayment after removing laminate floors?
4. If it’s in good shape and not stained or torn, yes. However, replacing it usually gives you better insulation and moisture protection.
5. What tools do I need for removing laminate flooring?
6. Pry bar, utility knife, mallet, putty knife, heavy gloves, and sometimes a moisture meter for water-damaged areas.
7. Do I need to remove baseboards before pulling up laminate?
8. Usually, yes. Removing baseboards makes it easier to lift planks without damaging walls or floors.
9. Is glue-down laminate flooring harder to remove?
10. Definitely harder than floating floors—you’ll need to cut and pry carefully. Consider using an oscillating tool for stubborn glue.
11. Should I use a professional for large rooms or DIY?
12. Most homeowners can tackle small-to-medium spaces. For big or complex areas, hiring a pro saves time and stress.
13. How do I dispose of old laminate flooring?
14. Check local regulations—many town dumps or recycling centers accept building materials. Some laminate is recyclable; check with manufacturers or use local resources.
15. How do I prep the subfloor after removing laminate?
16. Sweep thoroughly, check for damage or moisture, and repair any subfloor issues before installing new flooring.
17. What’s the fastest way to tear out laminate in a kitchen?
18. If planks aren’t glued, removing trim and pulling rows up from the wall is quick. Watch for appliances and fixtures that can block access.
19. Can I use a 3D floor planner to visualize my new design?
20. Absolutely! Plug your room into a 3D floor planner to test layouts and decide what new flooring fits best.
21. How do I deal with mold or water damage under my laminate?
22. Lift planks carefully, use a moisture meter to find affected spots, and treat any mold before laying new floors.
23. Any tips for beginners wanting to avoid mistakes?
24. Go slow, label and save baseboards, check for hidden nails, and plan layouts using a DIY room decor tool before starting.