How to Remove Adhesive From Concrete

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If you are removing tile or carpet from concrete, you must remove the adhesive that remains before painting or staining the concrete and, in most cases, before recovering the concrete with tile, wood or carpet. It is quite a job to remove adhesive from concrete. However, with the right knowledge and tools, you can learn to strip the adhesive.

Steps

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  1. There are many types of removers that you can choose. You can find user-friendly and safe types of adhesive removers made with citric acid or soy bases. However, for adhesives that are difficult to remove, you will need to use a solvent-based adhesive.
  2. Allow the adhesive remover to sit for as long as the package directions recommend.
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  3. If the adhesive does not come up easily, allow the remover to sit a little longer.
  4. Scrape the entire surface with a scraper, putty knife or a trowel with a flat edge and remove as much of the adhesive as possible.
  5. Repeat until you have removed all the adhesive.
  6. Wipe it clean with rags.
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Community Q&A

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  • Question
    The tile have been removed, but some of the glue (put down in the early 70's) is still on the concrete. It is very smooth. Can ceramic tile be installed over this or does the glue have to be removed?
    Wildman5311
    Community Answer
    Maybe try sanding it? It probably should be fine if you take a level to it and make sure it is not above the concrete surface more than 1/16 in.
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  • Question
    How do I remove carpet glue from concrete?
    Community Answer
    Mix 1 cup of trisodium phosphate (TSP) in 1 gallon of hot water. Spread the solution over the concrete area with carpet glue. Let it soak for 20 to 30 minutes. Then, use a razor blade scraper to remove the adhesive. If the area is too large to be tackled with a manual scraper, you can buy a heavy duty glue removal machine.
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  • Question
    What brand of adhesive remover do I use?
    Community Answer
    You can use any brand that you would like or have access to.
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      Tips

      • You may want to try using the adhesive remover in a test area to get a feel for how the remover works. This will also tell you whether you need a stronger solvent-based remover.
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      • You may find that it is easier to remove the adhesive by working in small sections at a time. This will prevent wasted adhesive remover as you work.
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      • Read the label directions before using the adhesive remover to check the average drying time. This will ensure that you do not let the product sit too long or not long enough. Also, be sure to note any warnings on the label.
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      Warnings

      • Keep an eye on the surface to make sure the adhesive remover does not dry out. If you allow the remover to sit too long, the adhesive could harden again before you can scrape it.
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      • Don't attempt to scrape the entire surface until the adhesive remover has had time to soften the adhesive sufficiently, or you will just make it harder to complete your project.
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      • When using solvent-based removers, be aware that these removers are very flammable. You also want to work in a well-ventilated area when using these products so you don't breathe in the hazardous fumes.
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      Things You'll Need

      • Adhesive remover
      • Brush or trowel
      • Scraper, putty knife or flat-edged trowel
      • Water
      • Rags

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