How to Remove Adhesive Strips on Metal
Adhesive strips are used to secure a variety of things to metal. How difficult they are to remove depends on the type of adhesive and the length of time the adhesive has been on the metal. The longer the adhesive strip has been there or the stronger the adhesive, the harder it will be to get the adhesive off. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Dirt-erasing sponge
- Petroleum jelly
- Toothbrush
- Scratch-free pad
- Towel
- Baking soda
- Hairdryer
Instructions
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1
Peel the adhesive strip off of the metal surface if possible. The strip may stretch and break, but it still may be possible to remove the adhesive strip. Some adhesive residue may remain.
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2
Use a dirt-erasing sponge to remove any adhesive. This works well if the adhesive strip hasn't been in place for very long. If the adhesive strip has been there for a while, this method may remove only the coloring from the strip and leave the sticky residue.
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3
Rub petroleum jelly on any remaining adhesive. Allow it to set for at least five minutes. Scrub the adhesive and petroleum jelly with a toothbrush or scratch-free pad. Wipe off with a clean towel.
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4
Mix water into baking soda until it forms a paste. Apply the paste to any adhesive that wasn't removed by the petroleum jelly. Leave the paste on the area for at least four hours. If possible, leave it on overnight. Scrub the area with a towel soaked in hot water. Rub in circles until the adhesive is gone.
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5
Heat the glue with a hairdryer if heat won't damage the surface or surrounding surfaces. When the adhesive is softened, wipe it off using a warm, soapy towel. Clean any remaining soap off the area with a damp towel.
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Tips & Warnings
All of these methods except the one in Step 2 can be done even if some of the adhesive strip material remains on top of the adhesive.
Covering the adhesive strip may be possible if you are unable to remove the adhesive.
If you are working with a metal surface that may be easily damaged, test the method you plan to use on a small and inconspicuous area to ensure that the surface isn't damaged.
