How to Clean Up Floor Tile Adhesive

When all the tiles are removed, all that's left behind is the mess of glues and adhesives that were hidden beneath. The adhesive that holds the tile in place is strong and adheres well, but it isn't at all cooperative when it comes time to get rid of it. Getting rid of floor tile adhesive is a much easier task with the right materials and knowledge. Learn how to remove this sticky substance with only a little time and effort.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Hair dryer
• Scraper
• WD-40
• Dry ice
• Metal tray
• Dish soap
• Clean cloth

1. Heat the glue with a hair dryer to soften it. Hold the hair dryer on the adhesive for 10 to 15 minutes and scrape it away with a scraper.

2. Spray the area with WD-40 and allow it to soak for 5 to 10 minutes before taking it off with a scraper.

3. Set a small bit of dry ice on a metal tray and let it stay on the adhesive for 30 seconds. Move the tray. The adhesive will now be frozen and brittle and should scrape off.

4. Press a strip of duct tape onto the area firmly. When you peel it away, the adhesive should come up with it. Repeat the process until all the adhesive is gone.

5. Add 2 tbsp. of dish soap to 1 quart of warm water. Apply the solution to the adhesive with a clean cloth and allow it to soak for at least 5 minutes. The scraper should be able to take the adhesive off now.

Tips & Warnings

• Always wear gloves when handling dry ice.