Removing Carpet

1. Cut around thresholds - Removing old carpeting is fairly straightforward. Start by cutting through the carpet near the door thresholds where the carpet is attached. Depending on the thickness of the carpet and the sharpness of your utility knife, you may be able to cut through both the carpet and the pad at one time. If not, you can always go back after the carpet has been removed and cut and roll the pad. This is also the time to remove any old metal thresholds with a pry bar.

2. Cut and roll carpet and pad - Next, cut the carpet into strips that will be easy to roll up. I?ve found that 3-foot strips work best. After cutting the carpet into strips, roll them up and set them aside for disposal. If you cut through both carpet and pad, you may be able to roll them up together. If not, pull up the pad and roll it separately. Most carpet padding is stapled down?just give it a good yank, and it?ll pull right up. Note: If you?re removing cushion-backed carpet that was glued down, you?ll need to remove the adhesive residue with a floor scraper.

3. Remove tackless strips - If you?re planning on laying new carpet, inspect the tackless strips to see whether they can be reused: The points need to be sharp and angled toward the wall. Replace any worn-out sections with fresh strips. If the tackless strips are in bad shape or you?re not reinstalling carpet, work around the perimeter of the room, removing the strips with a pry bar and a hammer. Finally, use a putty knife to pry up and lift out any staples remaining from the carpet padding.