What should technicians do first when removing tack strip (gripper) from a concrete floor?

When removing tack strip (gripper) from a concrete floor, the recommended first step is to tap the side of the tack strip to break it loose from the concrete. This method helps in loosening the adhesive and any mechanical fasteners that may be holding the tack strip tightly in place, making the removal process smoother and more efficient. By doing this, technicians can effectively minimize the risk of damaging either the concrete floor or the tack strip itself during the removal.

Using pliers directly to pull it up can be tempting but may not work well if the strip is firmly attached. Removing it directly by hand without first loosening it can lead to unnecessary effort and possibly injury or damage. Leaving the tack strip in place if it’s deemed unnecessary is not advisable, as it can interfere with subsequent installations or create an unsafe condition. Thus, the approach of tapping to loosen is both sensible and effective in ensuring a clean and safe removal process.