How to Remove Contact Paper Adhesive
Contact paper is a popular solution to protect the surfaces inside cabinets and drawers. Waterproof and stain-resistant, contact paper makes the job of cleaning these wood surfaces easier. The paper consists of two layers, the waterproof top layer and the adhesive bottom layer. When the paper is worn, faded or just in need of an update, the top layer of the contact paper may be removed easily, but the contact paper adhesive can be difficult to remove. With the proper strategy and tools, however, the job can be done much more efficiently. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Remove the drawer or shelf containing old, worn contact paper, and place it on a flat work surface. Because removing the contact paper adhesive can be a messy job, working outside is ideal.
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Blow hot air onto the contact paper using the hair dryer on the highest heat setting. Keep the hair dryer a few inches from the paper. Begin on the edge or corner of the paper.
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Use the scraper to remove as much of the adhesive and paper as possible as the adhesive softens from the heat. Scrape gently, being careful not to damage the wood under the paper.
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Dip a large sponge or rough cloth into any type of acidic cola and apply liberally to any remaining adhesive. Thoroughly scrub the wood until it is free of all adhesive.
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Rinse the wood with water to remove all traces of cola. Allow to dry completely before painting or applying new contact paper.
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Tips & Warnings
Cola is the easiest and most cost-efficient adhesive remover, but commercially available adhesive solvents can be substituted if needed.
If the heat from the hair dryer does not easily remove the paper, try scoring the top layer of the paper. Use a wallpaper scoring tool or razor blade to cut into the top layer of the contact paper. The heat from hair dryer should then be able to reach and relax the adhesive underneath.
References
- Photo Credit wallpaper with a rolled edge image by Cherry-Merry from Fotolia.com
