Remove Tack Strips and Staples

What happens in this clip

After removing the carpet, carefully pull off all the tack strips from the risers and treads. Next, use a hammer and pliers to remove all the remaining staples embedded in the wood underlayment and along the edges of each tread. This is a tedious process, as there can be numerous staples on each stair. The video shows using both a hammer claw and pliers for this task.

Goal: Clear the stairs of all tack strips and staples, leaving a smooth surface.

What's used

Tools

• Ear Protection
• Earplugs
• Hammer
• Pliers

About the full video

This DIY project details the complete transformation of an old, carpeted staircase into a modern, visually appealing set of stairs with laminate treads and painted risers. The process involves removing old carpet, prepping the stairs, painting, modifying existing treads, installing new laminate, and reinstalling a painted railing.

Step 6 of 9: Remove Tack Strips

Using a pry bar or pliers, grip each tack strip and pull it upwards, removing the nails from the wood. Work across each stair tread and riser. Be cautious of the sharp pins on the strips.

Open this step in the guide

Every video in How to Remove Old Carpet from Stairs

1. Step 1: Secure the Area

   • 0:55–1:00 Prepare and Protect Adjacent Areas
   • 0:55–1:00 Seal Off Entryways
   • 0:26–0:34 Mask and Protect Surrounding Areas

2. Step 2: Loosen Carpet Edges

   • 0:58–1:33 Loosen Carpet from Tack Strips
   • 0:44–2:00 Remove Old Carpet

3. Step 3: Pull Carpet Up and Away

   • 0:21–0:50 Remove the Carpet
   • 0:58–3:40 Cut and Remove Main Carpet Sections
   • 0:44–2:00 Remove Old Carpet

4. Step 4: Remove Carpet Backing

   • 3:40–4:20 Remove Carpet Underpad
   • 0:02–0:09 Remove Carpet and Padding
   • 0:40–1:09 Remove Carpet Pad and Tack Strips

5. Step 5: Remove Padding

   • 2:46–3:43 Remove Carpet Padding
   • 1:00–1:25 Remove Carpet Pad
   • 1:33–1:40 Remove Carpet Padding

6. Step 6: Remove Tack Strips

   • 4:56–5:35 Remove Tack Strips
   • 0:31–0:55 Remove Tack Strips and Staples (this video)
   • 1:02–1:12 Remove Tack Strips

7. Step 7: Clean Stair Treads and Risers

   • 0:14–0:23 Initial Cleanup and Debris Removal
   • 0:23–0:26 Clean and Prepare Stairs for Finishing
   • 1:49–2:08 Clean Up Debris

8. Step 8: Inspect and Repair Stairs

   • 0:55–1:21 Apply Wood Filler to Blemishes
   • 7:20–7:30 Final Touches and Cleanup
   • 0:07–0:25 Inspect and Fill Imperfections

9. Step 9: Dispose of Materials

   • 1:07–1:12 Bag Carpet Sections
   • 7:37–8:39 Roll Padding with Tack Strips for Disposal
   • 3:46–3:50 Dispose of Carpet Debris