Removing carpet strips from interior concrete

terri77

I'm in a condo with a concrete floor downstairs. Until I put in kitchen cabinets, I don't want to finish the floor, but the carpet has GOT to go now. Since I'm not sure if I want a full tile floor, I decided to live with the concrete for a bit and see what a hard floor will be like (temperature, comfort, etc.). Carpet came up easily enough, but the strips along the walls are an issue.

First of 2 issues: The wood is almost rotted through and comes off easily, but there are rusted nails/tacks into the concrete that are stuck. Prying them up with a crowbar is pulling up chunks of concrete as well. As I may decide to just finish the concrete instead of tiling, I'm concerned about filling these in with something that looks different from the surrounding concrete.

I have read through many posts, and other than a mention that my problem is normal, I haven't found much.

Is there any way to deal with these nails without damaging the concrete? If not, what should I fill in the holes with?

Second issue: I was told that a concrete sealant will have to be removed before eventual tiling. Is there a less penetrating, more temporary option I can use for a year or so? I understand that water-based acrylic may do the trick, but wanted to confirm.

Background: The slab was poured about 30 years ago, and yes, there has been a flood or two from leaks over the years...

Thanks in advance!
Terri

joecaption

There hardened nails so there's no gental way to get them out without some slab damage.
Vacuum the holes and use non gypsom floor leveler to fill them in.
And yes there going to show if you try something like staining the floor.

Fix'n it

i had to do that, years ago. i was surprised at how well some of those nails stuck.

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terri77

Honestly, how did they even get them in? I couldn't believe the damage...

joecaption

There easy to get in, one strick with a hammer and there in. It's getting back out that's hard.