Staples in wood floors

Problem: I pulled up carpeting that was placed over my pine floors,but now I've got to get rid of the staples that were used to hold the carpetingdown. How can I do this without gouging the soft pine floor?

Solution: Gently slide the edge of a putty knife under the staple,then slide a screwdriver under the staple (and over the putty knife) and pop thestaple out. The putty knife protects the floor from getting gouged. This methodworks great without scratching or nicking the floor. Some staples can be easilypulled out with pliers, also with the putty knife slid underneath. -- Jim onThe Old House Web Bulletin Boards