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How to Remove Old Carpet Before a New Installation

Carpet Flooring in Ottawa, ON from Advantage Flooring

Thursday, April 24, 2025-

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Preparing for a carpet replacement project requires proper planning and execution. Removing old carpet might seem straightforward, but doing it correctly can save you time, money, and ensure your new carpet installation goes smoothly. At Advantage Flooring, we've helped countless Ottawa homeowners through this process, and we're sharing our expertise to make your carpet replacement journey easier.\

Planning your carpet removal project

Before diving into carpet removal, take some time to prepare:
 

  • Clear all furniture from the room
  • Gather necessary tools (utility knife, pliers, work gloves, mask, knee pads)
  • Create a disposal plan for the old carpet
  • Ensure you have enough help, as carpet can be heavy

 

Planning ahead helps minimize disruptions during your carpet replacement process. Remember that proper removal is the foundation for a successful new carpet installation.\

Step-by-step carpet removal guide

Removing the carpet

Start by pulling the carpet from one corner of the room. Most carpet is only attached around the edges, so once you free a corner, you can usually pull it up with relative ease. Cut the carpet into manageable strips (about 3-4 feet wide) using a utility knife as you remove it. This makes the old carpet much easier to handle and dispose of.
 

When searching for "carpet shops near me" for your new flooring, ask if they include old carpet removal in their services. Many professional installers offer this as part of their carpet replacement cost.
 

Removing carpet padding

After removing the carpet, you'll need to address the padding underneath:
 

  • Pull up the padding just as you did with the carpet
  • Remove any staples securing the padding to the subfloor
  • Scrape away adhesive residue if the padding was glued down

 

The padding is often in worse condition than the carpet itself, so don't be surprised if it comes up in pieces. Cheap carpet installations often use lower-quality padding that breaks down faster, which is why investing in quality materials for your new carpet is important.
 

Removing tack strips and preparing the subfloor

The final step involves dealing with tack strips – the wood strips with sharp tacks that hold the carpet in place around the room's perimeter:
 

  • Use a pry bar and hammer to carefully remove the tack strips
  • Pull any remaining staples from the floor
  • Sweep and vacuum the subfloor thoroughly

 

If you're planning to handle the new carpet installation yourself, ensuring the subfloor is completely clean and smooth is essential. Any debris or uneven areas will be noticeable under your new carpet.\

Common challenges during carpet removal

Removing old carpet can present some unexpected challenges:
 

  1. Hidden damage: Sometimes, removing carpet reveals damaged subfloors that need repair before new carpet installation.
  2. Adhesive residue: Some carpet installations use adhesive that can be difficult to remove completely.
  3. Dust and allergens: Older carpets contain significant dust and allergens, so wearing a mask is highly recommended.

 

If you encounter serious subfloor issues during your carpet replacement project, it might be worth consulting professionals. The carpet replacement cost might increase if substantial repairs are needed, but addressing these problems is crucial for a lasting new installation.\

When to consider professional carpet removal

While DIY carpet removal is possible, there are scenarios where professional help makes sense:
 

  • Large areas with multiple rooms
  • Physical limitations that make heavy lifting difficult
  • Tight timelines for completing your carpet replacement
  • Concerns about proper disposal of old materials

 

Professional carpet removal services ensure the job is done efficiently and prepare your home perfectly for new carpet installation. When looking for "carpet shops near me," inquire about their removal services as part of the complete package.\

Experience the Advantage Flooring difference for your next carpet project

At Advantage Flooring, we specialize in making your flooring projects stress-free with our convenient shop-at-home service throughout Ottawa, Manotick, Nepean, Kanata, and Orleans. Contact us today to schedule your free in-home consultation, or visit our Ottawa showroom by appointment to explore quality carpet options at competitive prices. Let our experts help make your carpet replacement project a success from removal to beautiful new installation!