How to Remove Construction Adhesive Off a Bath Tub

Construction Adhesive on Bathtub

Construction adhesive was made to bond and to bond well, so it is no surprise that it is hard to get off of surfaces, including bathtubs. Whether it is newly applied or decades old, the removal is still the same. Within a few minutes of work, you should have a clean and smooth bathtub surface with no trace of any construction adhesive remaining.

Things You'll Need

• Razor blade scraper Adhesive remover Gloves Eye protection Paper towels Bathtub cleaner

Instructions

1. Scrape off the excess glue with a razor blade scraper. Hold the blade parallel with the surface of the bathtub so that you don't scratch or gouge the enamel surface.

2. Apply an adhesive remover, such as WD-40, Un-Du, acetone or denatured alcohol. Use caution when using chemicals like these and use gloves, eye protection and adequate ventilation. Let it sit for about one minute before scraping it again with the razor blade scraper. Most of the construction adhesive should now be removed.

3. Wipe the area again with the construction adhesive remover of your choice and rub it well with a paper towel. It may take a little rubbing to completely remove the film or residue left from the adhesive. Work in a circular motion until the area is clean.

4. Finish cleaning the affected area by spraying on a little bathtub cleaner and washing with warm water. Rinse and let dry.

Tips & Warnings

• If the adhesive is very old, the tub may be whiter underneath than the rest of the tub; there is nothing you can do about this. This method of removal will also work for the non-skid vinyl stickers used in bathtubs.

Resources

• Un-Du
• WD-40