Linoleum removal can be one of the most stubborn flooring projects you’ll tackle. Because linoleum is typically fully glued to the subfloor, removal often means cutting, heating, scraping, and lifting aggressively bonded layers of material and backing.
For small spaces, hand tools will get you through it — slowly.
For larger rooms or heavy adhesive, a powered scraper is the only way to get clean, even results without exhausting your entire weekend (or your crew).
At Eddy Floor Tools, we’re all about making tough flooring removal faster, cleaner, and easier. The Eddy floor scraper is a compact, do-it-all flooring tool trusted by demolition, renovation commercial flooring pros and DIYers alike for their power, durability, and ability to solve the awkward, hard-to-reach jobs bigger tools simply can’t handle.
Method 1: Manual Removal (Traditional Hand Tools)
Manual removal is a budget-friendly option for small rooms and lighter adhesive. It’s slow, but it works — as long as you’re comfortable putting in the elbow grease.
Step-By-Step
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Score and cut the linoleum
Use a utility knife to slice the flooring into small, manageable sections. -
Lift from a corner
Insert a putty knife or scraper under the edge and pry upward. -
Loosen the adhesive
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Use a heat gun to warm stubborn glue, or
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Apply warm, soapy water to soften older adhesive.
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Scrape as you go
Remove linoleum along with any felt or paper backing stuck to the floor. -
Clean the area
Remove debris and exposed adhesive before moving to the next section.
Tools Required
Utility knife • Putty knife/manual scraper • Heat gun or warm water
Ideal For
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Bathrooms, closets, and small rooms
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Thin or lightly bonded linoleum
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DIYers looking for a low-cost solution
Pros
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Inexpensive
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No power tools needed
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Simple setup
Cons
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Slow and physically demanding
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Backing often tears and sticks to the subfloor
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May require adhesive remover or extensive scraping
Method 2: Power Removal (The Eddy Floor Scraper)
The fastest, cleanest, and most efficient way to remove glued linoleum.
When linoleum is fully bonded — especially in kitchens, hallways, offices, or large commercial spaces — manual methods simply can’t keep up. That’s where the Eddy Floor Scraper shines.
The Eddy Floor Scraper slices under linoleum, felt backing, and adhesive in broad, clean passes. The result: a smoother subfloor and dramatically reduced labour.
Step-By-Step
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Prep yourself
Wear your protective equipment such as goggles. -
Prep the space
Remove furniture and create a clear path for the machine. -
Slide the blade under the flooring
Position the Eddy at a corner or starting edge. -
Power on and glide forward
The machine cuts beneath the linoleum and adhesive, lifting everything in long strips. -
Work in overlapping passes
Move across the room until all material is removed. -
Finish corners and edges
Only small touch-ups should be needed.
Best For
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Kitchens, offices, schools, retail spaces
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Large renovations
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Thick or stubborn adhesive
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Residential and commercial removal projects
Pros
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Removes linoleum much faster than hand tools
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Reduces strain — the machine does the heavy lifting
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Leaves a smooth, ready-to-install subfloor
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Cleaner, more controlled process
Cons
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Requires power and some space to maneuver
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Higher upfront cost than hand tools, but worth it for large projects
Google-Style FAQs
How do you remove old glued-down linoleum?
Cut it into strips, loosen adhesive with heat or warm water, and scrape it up. For a faster method, pros use powered scrapers like the Eddy Floor Scraper, which cut below the glue and lift flooring in wide paths.
How do I know if my linoleum contains asbestos?
Pre-1980s linoleum may contain asbestos in the backing or adhesive. Signs include dark felt backing or brittle material. To confirm, send a small sample to a certified asbestos testing lab before removal.
How do professionals remove vinyl or linoleum flooring?
They use commercial-grade powered scrapers like the Eddy Floor Scraper for consistent, adhesive-breaking passes across the entire room.
Is linoleum usually glued down?
Yes. Most linoleum is either perimeter bonded or fully glued, meaning removal almost always requires scraping tools or a scraping machine like the Eddy Floor Scraper.
Why Professionals Choose Eddy Floor Tools for Linoleum Removal
They are multi-purpose, versatile tools
Eddy Floor Tools are compact, powerful, and built for the complex parts of every job and every space. The Eddy Floor Scraper can be used for multiple flooring types and also cuts through tough glue, linoleum, adhesives and backing layers in a single motion - providing demolition for flooring and floor preparation in a single tool.
Fast, Professional Results
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Removes linoleum in a fraction of the time
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Handles stubborn adhesives with ease
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Leaves the subfloor smooth and ready for new flooring
Lightweight & Easy to Use
Contractor-grade performance without unnecessary weight. Perfect for professionals who spend long hours as well as homeowners and DIYers. It’s foldable and lightweight design allow it to be transported easily in your vehicle.
How to Remove Linoleum with the Eddy Floor Scraper (Quick Guide)
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Prep the Room – Clear obstacles and ensure proper ventilation.
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Start at a Corner – Slide the blade under the linoleum.
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Power & Glide – Let the Eddy lift flooring and adhesive in clean strips.
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Clean Up – Vacuum debris and scrape remaining edges.
Eddy Floor Scraper: Quick Product FAQ
Who uses it?
Contractors, demolition teams, property managers, restoration teams, and DIY homeowners.
What makes it different?
It removes linoleum and adhesive faster and cleaner than manual or handheld scrapers — while protecting the subfloor. It is a multi-purpose tool and has commercial-grade power but can easily fit into tight or awkward spaces.
Is it good for large jobs?
Yes. It’s ideal for residential and commercial spaces where time and quality matter.
Is it homeowner-friendly?
Absolutely. Professional-grade performance with simple, intuitive operation.
Ready to Remove Linoleum Flooring the Fast, Clean, Professional Way?
Small scrapers are fine for bathrooms — but for anything bigger, nothing compares to the speed and finish of the Eddy Floor Scraper.
If you want a clean subfloor, less labour, and faster results, Eddy is the smart choice.