Taking Up a Rubber-Backed Carpet

Remove Carpet

• The first step in removing rubber-backed carpeting is peeling up the carpet itself. The top layer usually peels off of the rubber backing, which is stuck to the sub-floor with mastic adhesive, according to "Edmonton Real Estate Weekly." Cutting the carpet into smaller pieces makes it easier to handle. Trying to remove the backing and the top layer of carpet in one piece rarely works -- once the carpet is gone you'll gain access to the stubborn, stuck-on layer of rubber backing.

Scrape It

• The main tool used for peeling up unwanted rubber backing is a scraper. A variety of scraping tools work for this job, including specialty devices marketed for removing carpet backing. A wallpaper shaver or chisel tool with a long handle attachment works equally well and is easier to find, notes Ask Tool Talk. Scraping up the backing takes time and effort, but it is the only method that allows you to leave a sub-floor like hardwood undamaged by being careful not to gouge or scratch it.

Solvents

• Most solvents, including paint thinner and rubbing alcohol, will have no effect on the rubber backing or will melt it and make a sticky mess. The careful application of lacquer thinner loosens carpet backing without melting it, according to Aldon Chemical. The lacquer thinner you choose to use should feature xylene or toluene as a main ingredient. Try using both solvent application and scraping to remove as much of the backing as possible in tough spots.

Hot and Cold

• If scraping and applying lacquer thinner doesn't work on the carpet backing, you'll need a hair dryer or a heat gun. Heating the backing with a heat gun softens it and makes it easier to scrape up. Cooling the rubber also works. Thin slices of dry ice harden the backing and any adhesives used when set out over the floor, according to "Edmonton Real Estate Weekly." Use thick gloves to prevent burns from handling the dry ice and keep the room well-ventilated while using it. The brittle rubber breaks easier when you use the scraping tool on it.