The foundation of any commercial space lies beneath our feet — the flooring. Not only does it serve a functional purpose, but it also significantly influences the ambiance and aesthetic of a room. Over time, even the most durable flooring can show signs of wear, tear, and aging.

Whether it’s due to high foot traffic, water damage, or simply the desire for a fresh look, the need for flooring replacement is inevitable. This guide is designed to offer a step-by-step guide through the intricate process of how to replace your flooring.

When To Remove Old Flooring

Flooring, like any other component of a building, has a lifespan. While some materials might last decades, others may show signs of wear and tear sooner. Recognizing the right time to remove and replace old flooring is crucial not only for aesthetic reasons but also for safety and functionality.

Here are some clear indicators that it’s time to bid farewell to your old flooring:

Visible Damage

The most apparent sign is visible damage. This can manifest as:

• Cracks or Breaks – Common in tiles and some types of solid hardwood floors.
• Stains – Persistent stains that resist cleaning, especially on carpets or vinyl.
• Tears or Rips – Often seen in vinyl or linoleum flooring.
• Warping or Cupping – Typically a result of moisture damage in wooden floors.

Upgrading to a modern, high-quality flooring can significantly boost the value of a property. That makes flooring upgrades an attractive option for those considering selling or renting out their space.

Persistent Odors

If your flooring, especially carpet, emits a persistent musty or unpleasant odor even after cleaning, it might be harboring mold or mildew. Not only does it hurt the ambiance, but mold can also pose health risks. Old carpets can also create unpleasant aromas that trap allergens, dust mites, and other irritants.

Excessive Wear and Tear

High traffic areas, like hallways or commercial spaces, tend to show wear sooner. Look for:

• Fading – Due to sunlight or heavy use.
• Thinning – Especially in carpets where the pile becomes flat or worn down.
• Loose Tiles or Planks – Indicating adhesive failure or subfloor issues. If you notice that the floor feels uneven underfoot or there are visible dips and rises, it could indicate issues with the subfloor or the flooring material itself.

Outdated Appearance

Sometimes, the flooring might be in decent condition, but its style is outdated, clashing with modern decor or renovations. Updating the flooring can rejuvenate the appearance of the entire space.

How To Replace Old Flooring

Replacing old flooring is a transformative process that can breathe new life into your space, no matter how many square feet you’ve got to work with. But before you can lay down that shiny new floor, there’s the critical task of removing the old one.

Step 1: Gather your materials

Having the right tools can make the removal process smoother and more efficient:

• Pry Bars – Essential for lifting tiles, wooden planks, or laminate floors.
• Floor Scraper – A manual tool that’s great for removing adhesive residues or thinset after tile removal.
• Power Scraper – For those tougher materials or larger areas, a power scraper can save time and effort.
• Disposal – Consider renting a dumpster or arranging a disposal method for the old flooring. Some companies specialize in recycling old flooring project materials, so it’s worth exploring eco-friendly disposal options.

Step 2: Remove the old flooring

Begin by removing all furniture, rugs, and movable items from the space. Wear protective gear, including gloves, safety goggles, and a dust mask. This will protect you from sharp objects, dust, and any chemicals or mold that might be present.

Depending on the types of flooring you’re dealing with, the removal process will vary:

• Carpet – Initiate the process from a corner, using a utility knife to cut into manageable sections. Once cut, pull up each section, rolling it as you go for easier disposal.
• Ceramic Tile – Begin by breaking a single tile using a chisel and hammer. This will create an opening, making it easier to remove adjacent tiles. Remember to wear protective gear to guard against sharp tile shards.
• Wood – Wooden planks can be pried up using a pry bar. Start at an edge and work your way inwards, plank by plank.
• Laminate Flooring- Laminate floors typically employ a click-lock system. Begin from a wall and gently lift the boards to disengage them.
• LVT – Depending on the adhesive used, LVT can either be peeled off or might require a scraper for removal.
• Polished Concrete – This flooring type requires a grinding process to remove the polished layer, revealing the raw concrete subfloors beneath.
• Epoxy – A combination of mechanical scraping and chemical strippers can be used to remove epoxy coatings.
• Vinyl – Similar to LVT, vinyl can be peeled or scraped off, depending on its age and adhesive.

Many flooring materials can be recycled or repurposed, reducing the environmental footprint of your renovation project.

Step 3: Prepare the surface for new flooring

With the old floor gone, you’re left with a blank canvas. But before laying the new flooring, you have to prep the surface:

• Use a broom and vacuum to remove any debris left behind. For adhesive residues, a combination of a scraper and adhesive remover can be effective.
• An uneven floor can lead to issues down the line, from uneven tile placement to squeaky wooden planks. If you notice any dips or rises, a self-leveling compound can create a smooth, even surface.
• Any cracks, holes, or imperfections in the substrate should be addressed now. Depending on the severity, you might need fillers, patches, or even a section of new substrate.
• Moisture can be a silent destroyer, especially in commercial spaces. It’s essential to ensure the surface is dry. Any trapped moisture can lead to mold or mildew growth beneath the new floor. Moisture meters are available for accurate readings, or you can consult a professional.

Step 4: Applying the new flooring

Carpet Rolls & Modular Tiles

Rolled carpeting is ideal for large, open areas. It’s installed by rolling out the carpet, cutting it to fit, and then adhering it to the floor using carpet glue or tacks.

Carpet tiles are versatile and can be mixed and matched to create unique designs. They’re typically installed using adhesive dots or tabs.

Ceramic Tile, Wood, Laminate Flooring, LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tile)

These materials are installed by first laying down a substrate or underlayment. Then, the flooring material is attached using adhesive, nails, or a click-lock system.

Polished Concrete (Machine Process)

Polished concrete is achieved by grinding the concrete surface using a series of progressively finer diamond grinding tools. The result is a shiny, smooth surface that’s both durable and low-maintenance.

Epoxy (Painted Surface)

Epoxy flooring is a resinous flooring system that’s applied in layers. The surface is first primed, then the epoxy resin is mixed and applied. Once cured, it creates a glossy, durable surface.

Vinyl (Sheet/Roll)

Vinyl flooring comes in large sheets or rolls. It’s laid out, cut to fit, and then adhered to the substrate using a special adhesive.

Get Expert Help With Your Flooring Replacement Project

If you’re considering a commercial renovation project and need expert guidance on flooring replacement, don’t hesitate to start a conversation with Indecca.

Our team of professionals is equipped with the knowledge and experience to ensure your project is executed seamlessly, meeting both your aesthetic and functional needs. Start a conversation with us today.