How to Remove a Foam Carpet Pad That Is Glued

A foam carpet pad is placed underneath a carpet to provide stability and cushion it as well. Often the carpet pad is stapled to the floor, but sometimes glue is used instead to keep it in place. Removing a foam carpet pad that's glued to a floor is not the easiest process; in fact, it is usually quite tedious. However, ambitious do-it-yourselfers can handle the job.

Utility knife
Pliers
Sponge
Mineral spirits
Putty knife
Clean cloth

Instructions

- 1
  Cut the foam carpet pad into manageable strips, using a utility knife. Do not cut so deeply that it scratches the floor underneath.
- 2
  Pull back the edge of one strip of the foam carpet pad, using pliers. Do this slowly to avoid tearing the carpet pad.
- 3
  Soak a sponge with mineral spirits and apply underneath the area where the foam carpet pad is stuck to the floor.
- 4
  Scrape up the foam carpet pad strip, using a putty knife, while simultaneously pulling back the carpet pad with pliers. Start on one strip at a time and gradually work your way across the entire pad. Be careful to not scratch the floor.
- 5
  Soak a clean cloth in mineral spirits and clean up any glue residue left on the floor after you have removed the foam carpet pad.

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