[withhope2010]

HELP PLEASE?! I wish to remove the very old, dust laden :eek: carpets located in the front stairwell.
I lifted up a corner and see that there are wooden tack strips that are glued down VERY VERY tightly. I tried to pry one up and it was absolutely impossible.
I would greatly appreciate any tips on a safe product which I can use to remove these wooden strips that are holding the carpets down. :confused:(and any tips on how to remove these wooden tack strips safely?) (My Son has allergies and I would like to know of any safe, (as natural as possible), product, preferably with low toxicity & low odour, which I can use to remove this glue?)
The stairs are made of some type of 1950's/60's style - a type of stone, which appears as many mixed mottled colours(difficult to describe).
Thank you!:)

[ballengerb1]

You are hoping for a chemical fix for the issue and I doubt there is one. However, there is a physical fix. Get a 1" chisel, lay it flat to the floor and drive it between the tackless strip and the floor. You mat dull the chisel after a few feet but it should do the job.

[hkstroud]

On the chance that some type of construction adhesive was used pour some mineral spirits (paint thinner) around the wood, let it sit for about five minutes then try prying the strip up.

[creahands]

Use a carpet stair tool. Start at one end and work your way across

Chuck

[franmurf]

I would try to use one of the new multimaster tools that have oscillating blades-it is a great tool to have in your toolbox anyway-here are some of your choices Oscillating Multi-Tool Shootout Comparison —Professional tool reviews for the average Joe