Understanding exactly what you need to complete a specific job before walking into a store or rental center will save considerable time, effort and headaches. Here are some details for ensuring you make the most of your time while successfully completing the job without damage or injury.

Before going out to get a floor-covering stripper, take some notes about exactly what needs to be done. This helps in finding the right machine and blade to do the job.

First, write down what will need to be removed: linoleum, carpet, vinyl composition tiles (VCT), ceramic tiles and so forth. Different blades remove different types of material, so it’s important to know exactly what the material is.

A stripper blade that works perfectly for removing tile may simply slide under carpet and stop. Floor covering that has been applied in sheets, such as linoleum and carpet, will need to be sliced as it is removed so that it comes off in strips. This job requires a scoring blade, which is bent up at each end in order to cut through the material as it releases from the floor below. The wrong kind of blade will only hinder the process.

Conversely, a blade with forked teeth will be of little help on carpet, but it will make quick work of removing ceramic tile. When it comes to vinyl and linoleum tiles, a straight blade with a beveled edge does best.

Adhesives

Next, attempt to find out what attaches the flooring to the subsurface below since this, too, can dictate what blade to use or if a second blade is needed. Thick, strong glue under linoleum will require a different blade than loosely attached carpet. It also will be more easily removed with a smaller blade.

A stripper will always produce the same amount of force, but if that force drives a 6-inch-wide blade as opposed to a 16-inchwide blade, there will be more force per blade inch, resulting in a stronger effort removing the floor covering. A second blade could be needed to remove any mastic residue left behind, which will be more important for applications requiring a smooth surface, such as painting concrete.

Before selecting a blade, consider the area size as well. While a 10-inch blade may be among the most common, blades up to 16 inches wide are available and will clear a large area faster. For a very large job, such as an office complex, a ride-on stripper may be more effective. Conversely, 6-inch blades are available and will be easier to maneuver in small areas, such as closets. Smaller blades also will function better if the subsurface is uneven or misaligned since a wider blade may get hung up on uneven surfaces.

Also, know how much power will be available for the floor-covering stripper. In older, urban areas, 115 volts may not be available in the summer due to power demand, and reduced power could cause the motor to overheat. If this is the case, consider alternative power sources or, if possible, wait until a cooler season to perform the task.

Make the Most of It

When picking up a floor stripper, make the most of the trip. Inquire about all of the pieces that will make the job ahead easier, faster and safer.

For instance, ask whether the machine is equipped with a ground-fault interrupter. This will provide for safer operation should there be moisture in the carpet (water and electricity definitely don’t mix) or if the stripper should accidentally slice the cord. These could be hazardous situations, but a GFI should prevent shock. If the available machines are not equipped with a GFI, it’s a good idea to get one to use with the stripper.

Next, consider extension cord needs. A heavy-duty cord constructed with at least 12-gauge wire will be needed to prevent overloading. Don’t try to substitute with a cheaper alternative that may already be on hand. Additionally, know the distance to the closest electrical outlet to ensure the extension cord will be long enough. Keep in mind, however, that the longer the cord, the more resistance there will be and the warmer the machine will run.

Convenience is another important factor with the machines. Some manufacturers make strippers with wheels positioned for easy maneuvering up and down stairs.

Check on features that may make it easier to transport as well. Lifting handles will make the unit easier to load and unload, and a foldable handle will minimize the machine’s size for loading into a smaller vehicle. Lighter models and handheld options are other great features.

Not only do floor-covering strippers differ in features, but they may also vary in operation. Ask the rental center operator or store clerk to review operation steps and key features, such as how to adjust the handle and advice for controlling the machine. Inquire about manufacturer tip sheets or booklets that may be of assistance and refer to the operator’s manual before starting the machine.

If renting the unit, do a quick inventory of pieces to make sure that the machine and necessary blades are included. It’s not unusual to forget the blade, especially since the front end of the machine tapers to a sharp point without a blade attached. Also, ask how long it has been since the blades have been sharpened to ensure it will operate at peak effectiveness. Each blade should be razor sharp. For safety reasons, do not attach the blade to the machine until arriving at the destination. Before starting the machine, ensure that the lubricant levels are adequate and that the machine’s fasteners are tight.

Stripping Safely

Upon reaching the worksite, there are a few more things to know to help the job go smoothly and quickly. First and foremost, keep safety in mind. If the machine stops running or fails to run, survey the surroundings. It may be the GFI kicking in rather than a machine defect. The same is true in machines equipped with a thermal relief connection, which will switch the motor off if it becomes too warm. Should this happen, allow the motor to cool and try switching to a shorter extension cord before restarting the stripper.

Before plugging in the machine, doublecheck that the unit is off. If the machine is plugged in with the power switch in the “on” position, the stripper could get away, damaging the surface or machine or even injuring somebody. Some manufacturers provide a circuit-interrupter-type switch to prevent this from happening, but it’s always best to check first.

Before starting the machine, know what material comprises the subsurface. If a wood floor is underneath the flooring, use the stripper blade with the beveled edge down (some manufacturers will etch this message directly onto the blade). If it’s concrete below, turn the beveled edge up. It may seem like a minor step, but it will mean the difference between getting the job done safely and possibly not getting it done at all.

When the blade’s bevel is facing up with a wood floor below, the machine may become uncontrollable. Additionally, the blade will dig into the wood rather than remove the flooring. When it comes to finding a floor-covering stripper, a bit of homework ahead of time will pay dividends in the end, and a little good advice will go a long ways. By having all the right equipment — from the correct type and size of blade to the necessary accessories — you will be set up for success. Missing any of these pieces could cause additional, unnecessary trips to the store or result in a struggle to remove the flooring. Save the time and headaches by making notes first. Then, get moving and ace that application.

 ❑ Dennis Von Ruden is president of General Equipment Company, which rents floor care and other industrial equipment.