Removing Linoleum Tiles From a Concrete Floor

One of the reasons linoleum has been a popular choice in flooring over the years is because it's easy to maintain. Removing linoleum from a concrete floor, however, is anything but easy. The glue, or mastic, that is used to adhere linoleum creates a very strong bond that generally requires several methods, several hours and a fair amount of elbow grease to remove. Additionally, it is difficult to remove the linoleum and mastic without causing some damage to the flooring beneath it, although concrete can take more punishment than other types of flooring.

Utility knife
Long-handled razor scraper and extra razors
Old towels
Boiling water
Heat gun or blow dryer
Trash bag
Protective gloves
Commercial mastic remover (optional)

Instructions

- 1
  Cut into the linoleum with a utility knife, and peel up as much of the tile as possible. It will likely come up in pieces rather than in whole tiles.
- 2
  Place old towels on top of the mastic and linoleum pieces. Pour boiling water onto the towel, and allow it to sit for several minutes to soften the glue.
- 3
  Work a razor scraper under the linoleum, and scrape up as many of the tile pieces as possible. Reapply the towels and boiling water as needed.
- 4
  Use dry heat to soften the glue if the boiling water method proves unsuccessful. Aim a heat gun or hair dryer on a high setting at the mastic. Work the razor scraper under the linoleum pieces and scrape them off as the glue softens.
- 5
  Apply a chemical-based solvent to stubborn spots. Wear gloves, ventilate the area well and use the solvent according to the manufacturer's directions. Work in small areas to avoid excessive exposure to the chemicals.

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