If you've decided to perform the carpet removal task yourself, there are a few crucial tips that should help make things go smoothly. Many people assume that carpet removal is a complicated process that requires specialized equipment and tools. The good news is that the process doesn't take long, and most importantly, no technical carpet removal skills are a must. However, for the tools, there are just a few that you’ll need to have.

But that’s just it. You won’t need to have all those sophisticated gadgets carpet removal companies come with. Well, if you could have them, that’d be great, but they aren’t a must – that’s the point. The expectations versus realities of carpet removal are so vast that you could get confused. But we’ve made it easier for you to understand.

Expectation: You Don’t Need to Buy Carpet Removal Tools at all

Reality: You need to have Carpet Removal Tools

You have to purchase carpet removal tools before starting the job. A tack strip often comes with rental carpets. And you’ll need to get the right tools that can help you remove such tack strips on your carpet.

Carpet removal tools include a metal blade with a loop to hook onto the tack strip. This should help you to attach the carpet tack strips well so that you can remove them conveniently. There are several other tools that you’ll need for carpet removal, which you can always find in your local hardware store.

Another great way to remove carpet involves using a pry bar. A pry bar consists of a long, thin metal bar that you can pull across the room to pull the rug out.

Many home improvement stores rent carpet removal tools. These rental tools include carpet scrapers, pliers, utility knives, and others. All of these items can work together or independently. Follow the right procedures for specific instructions on how to use each of these tools.

If you are renting carpet removal tools, most of them will also have instructions for prepping the floor before using them. This might include wiping down the floor using a damp mop or using a cleaning solution or a carpet cleaner. Be sure to follow any instructions carefully so that the carpet removal will go smoothly. Test the tools out thoroughly before you embark on the project.

Expectation: It’s an Easy Job

Reality: Carpet Removal is Easier Said than Done

Often, many people assume that DIY carpet removal is a straightforward exercise. While we may want to encourage you that this is the case, we would only be deceiving you. And we both don’t like lies, right? The truth is that carpet removal is quite rigorous. We’re not trying to scare you, but only telling you the reality of things on the ground.

This is especially the case when you’re removing carpet from the stairs and hard-to-reach areas. You’ll have a bit of difficulty, especially if you’re alone. But luckily, thanks to effective DIY methods, you should be fine removing the carpet from your house. As long as you have the right tools mentioned above, you should be good to go.

The reason people opt to hire carpet removal companies is to evade the struggle of having to deal with the whole project on their own. But if you want to make it a bit easier for yourself, consider spreading the project for several days. Make it lighter by doing so instead of claiming to complete it in one or two days.

Expectation: You Don’t Have to Sort Out the New Installation Immediately

Reality: You Should Always Think Ahead

Before you start removing the carpet, make sure the new carpet installation is in place. Find out if you’ll still use DIY methods of carpet installation or if you’ll depend on help from professionals.

If you need to make any adjustments, the previous carpet removal methods you used will likely help with the new carpet installation. The process of carpet installation is merely the reverse of carpet removal. So, you can still borrow one or two things.

Just in case, it is best to play it safe and make sure the surface is clean and dry before you begin. You might even consider hiring cleaners to do a thorough job before you install the new carpet.

Once the surface is ready, all that is left is to install the new carpet. As with the old carpet installation process, be sure to follow any instructions given to you by your installer. If there are any special instructions or tips needed, be sure to ask your installer about it.

The floor must be level and clean before beginning any job. With some preparation and the right timing, you can ensure the success of your project.

The same case applies if you’re changing the flooring. Some people have carpet removal projects so that they can switch to hardwood flooring. Although for this case, you might have to get pros to help you out.

Final Thoughts

Now that’s what expectations and realities play out during carpet removal. Get yourself ready to handle the DIY project professionally. But in the meantime, be realistic in your approach.