How to remove flooring / floorboards

If a room's floorboards are old and worn they will need removing. Follow this simple step-by-step guide to learn how.

Level of difficulty

Level 2: Intermediate

What you need

• Safety goggles
• Hammer
• Saw
• Power drill
• 2 x bolster chisels
• Chisel

The steps to follow

Lifting square-edged boards

1. Open all windows for proper ventilation.
2. Wear a safety mask and goggles.
3. Remove the skirting boards.
4. Start by removing the floorboards from the side of the room. Slide the blade of a bolster chisel into the gap between the boards close to the end of the floorboard.
5. Carefully lift up the edge of the floorboard.
6. On the other side of the floorboard, place a second bolster chisel blade into the gap close to the end of the board.
7. Loosen the other end of the board.
8. Lift the end of the floorboard with the claw of a hammer and slide a chisel under it.
9. Lift it and remove the floorboard.
10. With a pair of pliers, remove the nails.

Lifting a continuous floorboard

1. Because a continuous floorboard is usually under a skirting board, it's best if you cut the board in half before lifting it.
2. Cut the middle of the floorboard with a saw.
3. Lift up the centre of the floorboard with a bolster and slide a chisel under it.
4. Cut through the nails horizontally and the centre of the joist with a saw.
5. Lift up the two boards with a bolster and slide a chisel under each.
6. Cut the joints of the tongue-and-grooved board.
7. Slide the blade of a saw into the gap between two floorboards and saw off their joists between the tongue-and-grooved boards.
8. Drill three or four holes to make an access slot for the saw.
9. To avoid cutting into any hidden cable or pipes, make short stroke cuts.
10. Lift and remove the floorboard.

Related articles

• How to repair squeaking floors
• How to remove skirting boards

Don't want to DIY? Get recommended flooring specialists for your home improvement job.