To think these underlay fragments need to be removed before the new underlay goes down?

[orderly]

We've just taken up the old underlay, prior to decorating and getting new underlay/carpets. Some of the staples were left behind, and some of them have tufts of underlay stuck underneath (see photo). DH and I are disagreeing over whether we should go to the effort of pushing out the bits of carpet with a screwdriver before bashing in the staples so they don't stick up. DH says he's happy to bash in the staples so long as he doesn't have to push out the underlay fragments first because he thinks that's not necessary. I think if the underlay is left behind we'll be able to feel the lumps. Who's right?

Can’t you pull the staples out with a hammer claw, even with the underlay there?

(You’re right. If a job’s worth doing, it’s worth doing well.)

I think you’re right too.

you are right. You need to get it back to a reasonable you smooth surface.

Yep, I'd remove the old underlay, (and the staples!) with a claw hammer...

Yes, I'd prefer them to come out - bashing them in was meant to be a compromise to save effort. Of course I can do it myself whichever way I like, but I was hoping to delegate the job.

I’d have thought using the claw would be easier, don’t just pull, use the hammer as a lever by bracing it against the floor.

Pull them up

Pull them up, it'll be all nobbily otherwise - surely?