How to Remove Construction Adhesive

Construction adhesive can bond for a lifetime.

The variety of construction adhesives available on the market is designed to bind together surfaces under the toughest of circumstances. From the mortar behind your tiles to the glue that holds your countertop in place, these adhesive can last a lifetime, so removing them for renovations or remodeling can present a serious problem. A number of household solvents and professional products can do the job.

Things You'll Need

• Rags and sponges
• Water
• Scraper
• Utility knife
• Acetone
• Solvent
• Paintbrush
• Sandpaper or steel wool

Instructions

1. Wipe down the adhered joint with a damp cloth to remove surface dirt and dust. This will enable the adhesive remover more direct contact to the surface.

2. Scrape at the joint with a razor edge scraper or utility knife to remove any loose or easily removed adhesive. Get as much adhesive out of the joint as you can.

3. Ventilate your work area by opening windows or activating exhaust fans. This will prevent irritation or health damage from strong fumes.

4. Soak a rag or sponge in acetone. Apply the acetone directly to the construction adhesive, soaking the surface as much as possible. Allow 10 minutes for the acetone to dissolve the adhesive, then scrape away all loosened adhesive with a scraper or putty knife. Continue until all adhesive is removed.

5. Paint professional adhesive solvent directly onto the joint. Allow the remover to work for the time indicated on the label, then scrape away all loosened adhesive. Continue to apply the solvent until all adhesive is removed.

6. Sand the surface with fine-grit sandpaper or #0000 grade steel wool to remove residual adhesive traces.

7. Wipe down the surface with a damp cloth to remove residual sanding dust and chemical remover.

Tips & Warnings

• For mastic, thinset or mortar, applying heat from a hair dryer or cold from a piece of dry ice will deactivate the adhesion between the surfaces.

• Read all instructions and warnings on your specific removal product before beginning your work. Some of these chemicals are extremely toxic and produce strong fumes.

• Some chemical solvents, including acetone, can discolor or damage some surfaces. Spot test any adhesive removers you try to use on an inconspicuous area of your surface to make sure it will not mar anything important.

• Do not use water on wallpaper or drywall surfaces, as the water can damage the surface.

References

• Super Glue Corporation: Removing Super Glue
• Ask the Builder: Adhesive Removers