What often appears to be an easy DIY cork floor removal can quickly turn into frustration when the removal process fails. Cork floor removal is notorious for being difficult due to its stubborn adhesive being well-bonded to the subflooring underneath. When improperly removed, cork flooring can leave behind uneven patches and residue that will negatively impact the installation of your new flooring. Trying to save costs with a DIY attempt more often than not results in costly subfloor repairs and potential permanent damage. Avoid the unnecessary trouble by choosing a professional removal service that guarantees a clean, efficient, and stress-free removal process from the start.

Specialised equipment is one of the biggest benefits of choosing professional cork floor removal services. When removing cork floors, industrial-grade machinery, such as specifically designed blades and jackhammers, is used to ensure that even the strongest adhesive can be removed and the damage to the subfloor is minimised. This process and the specialised tools prevent gouging and mark to the underlying subfloor, avoiding the need for costly repairs before new flooring can be laid.
When you choose a professional cork floor removal service, you are choosing an expert who thoroughly understands the foundation of your floor and can maintain the integrity of your subfloor. Professionals understand the grinding and preparation your subfloor needs to meet the exact flatness requirements, a step often neglected in DIY removals. Any imperfections left by the old adhesive can result in uneven wear and an overall unprofessional finish. During professional removals, potential issues such as moisture and mould growth can also be identified early on, preventing future implications.
Subfloor Condition and Preparation
Clients must recognise that the removal and grinding process does not constitute final floor preparation or levelling for a new installation. Concrete slabs vary widely in condition, and the flatness tolerances required by new flooring materials also differ significantly. For instance, Timber and vinyl almost always require additional preparation (+/- 3mm over 3m), such as floor levelling or feather coats. Because of this, the removal service cannot guarantee the subfloor will be 100% ready for every new floor type.
Following the initial cork removal, the subfloor’s condition must be further assessed to determine whether additional preparation or floor levelling may be necessary. This depends on the slab’s requirements and the tolerances of the new floor. This preparation is often a supplementary service, but an essential step to ensure the longevity and quality finish of the new floor.
Engaging a professional cork removal service ultimately saves you time and money. While a DIY cork floor removal project may seem like the cheaper alternative, it tends to not only result in unnecessarily long labour time but also potential repair costs when things go wrong. What might take a homeowner a painful week of laborious effort can often be accomplished by a professional crew in a single day. Additionally, professional services handle all logistics, safety protocols, and the clean-up process, saving you the extra time and costs that would otherwise be incurred by doing it yourself.
Hiring a professional to remove cork flooring ensures that the removal process is kept safe, clean and dust-free from start to finish. The demolition process is inherently dangerous, but with professionals who are familiar with safety processes and industrial-grade equipment that reduces dust to a minimum, it keeps the removal process safe and protects the air quality. A professional crew also ensures that waste is handled and disposed of under proper regulations, eliminating all legal and logistical liabilities for the client.
Removing cork flooring does not have to be a source of stress or a financial risk. Leaving the hard work to the experts ensures a streamlined, efficient and compliant service that delivers quality results.
At All Stripped Demolition, we offer comprehensive cork floor removal services that cover the entire process, from the initial consultation to waste disposal after the removal process. With the assistance of high-powered vacuum systems, we also minimise dust, protecting your air quality and maintaining a clean environment. Contact our team today to find out more about our cork floor removal service, or visit our website to get a free estimate.