How to Get Rid of Carpet Glue

Remodeling projects may include removing carpet adhesive from hardwood or concrete floors.

Remodeling a room or entire building can consist of a series of arduous tasks. One of these tasks may be removing the carpet glue left on hardwood or concrete floors. Whether you want to restore a hardwood floor to a more natural appearance or clean a concrete base, properly removing glue is key. If the concrete surface is not clean, tiles and carpet installed in the future may come loose and require replacement.

Things You'll Need

• Floor scraper
• Chemical adhesive remover
• Angle grinder (optional)
• Absorbent towels
• Chemical stripper for wood floors

Instructions

Removing Glue From Concrete Flooring

1. Attempt to scrape off the residue solely with a scraper. This alone may work and prevent the need for any chemical strippers.

2. Apply a chemical stripper/adhesive remover and let it sit for at least 30 minutes or as directed on the stripper label. Newer, less-toxic strippers are often citric acid or soy-based and tend to have less fumes.

3. Alternatively, use a portable angle grinder fitted with a carbide/diamond grinder cup and, if possible, connect it to a shop vacuum to reduce the dust that will be generated.

4. Rinse or thoroughly wash off the stripper or dust with water.

Removing Glue From Hardwood Flooring

1. Heat or boil water.

2. Pour water onto the adhesive or onto absorbent towels, then apply them to the glue on the floor. This should loosen the glue into a sort of slimy goo and make it removable.

3. Wash off the loosened glue residue using plain water or soap for wood floors.

4. If plain boiled water does not work to remove the glue, locate a chemical stripper labeled for wood floors and apply as directed.

5. If using stripper, thoroughly wash the floor with water or a safe soap and dry it well so the wood does not warp.

Tips & Warnings

• If too much water is not a concern when removing glue residue from a wood floor, the heated water can be poured directly onto the glue rather than on towels.

• Chemical strippers may contain harsh fumes. Be certain to follow all directions on labels, including properly ventilating a work area.

References

• "Taunton's Tiling Complete: Expert Advice From Start to Finish"; Michael Schweit and Robin Nicholas; 2008
• All Things Concrete: How to Remove Carpet Glue From Concrete
• Old House Web: Getting Rid of Glue Residue on Wood Floors