When you have to remove flooring in a smaller area, such as a small office or residential area, a walk-behind, power floor scraper can save time and get excellent results. To help you make your next floor removal process easy and efficient, we’re sharing how to operate a power floor scraper for best results.

When to Use a Power Floor Scraper

Walk-behind power floor scrapers can be used on a wide variety of materials, including:

  • Carpet
  • Tile
  • Linoleum
  • Laminate
  • Wood and parquet
  • Vinyl – sheet, tile, and plank
  • Rubber and mastic coatings
  • Adhesive, tape, and gum

While ride-on floor scrapers are ideal for medium to large jobs, a self-propelled walk behind floor scraper can tackle small to medium sized jobs with ease. More compact options, like the Bully Stripper 8-inch Floor Scraper, can negotiate stairs and navigate compact areas with ease.

Choosing the Right Scraper Blade

Your scraper will only be as effective as your blade is, so it’s important to choose the right one for your project.

  • Chisel blades are designed for thinset, adhesive, tile, and stone;
  • Use a scraper blade with the beveled edge down at a flatter angle when using on a wood subfloor;
  • Keep the beveled side up on concrete at a sharp angle
  • Use a wide, u-shaped blade for carpet;

Operating a Power Floor Scraper

While most ride-on floor scrapers are powered by propane or batteries, a walk-behind scraper can be plugged into a wall in most cases. Before starting, make sure you have a clear path ahead of you. This isn’t just referring to debris and furniture, it’s also important to know where expansion joints in concrete are located so you don’t jam your blade.

While every scraper has slight differences, the operation is fairly similar and universal.

  • Inspect the equipment for damage and defects before starting;
  • Install the proper blade prior to using and adjust the angle of the blade;
  • Adjust the wheel and handles to the proper height for safe and comfortable operation;
  • Switch the dial into the ‘On’ position and move at a consistent pace forward into the floor covering. The blade should push through and remove the material.

If the scraper isn’t cutting through the material, or it’s just skimming over the surface instead of getting under the flooring, you may have a dull blade that needs to be changed out. If the blade is new, you may need to raise the angle of the blade to get a deeper cut, though if the problem is the blade itself, you may inadvertently damage the subfloor or concrete slab below.

Order Your Floor Scraper and Accessories Today

If you are ready to upgrade to a power floor scraper over a manual option so you can save time and improve results, we’ve got everything you need including different blades and . From high-quality, durable floor scrapers to replacement floor scraper blades and accessories, get the gear you need for your next project. Reach out to us today at  (815) 472-9754 or by filling out our contact form to get started!