How to Remove Glue and Adhesive from Floors

Flooring, Interior, Repairs and Installation, Video by Danny Lipford


          Floor scraper                    Spyder Scraper                   Power scraper

When removing glued down flooring, such as vinyl or linoleum, it’s important to get as much of the old adhesive off the subfloor as possible to provide a smooth surface for the new flooring. There are several tools that can be used to remove flooring adhesive, including:

  • Hand Scraper: A simple hand floor scraper has a metal blade mounted on a handle. Using one can take a lot of work, so be sure to wear gloves to avoid blisters.
  • Reciprocating Saw: When equipped with a scraper attachment, such as the Spyder Scraper, this common power tool can make quick work of removing dried adhesive from almost any surface.
  • Power Scraper: This walk behind machine is the fastest way to scrape a floor. Available at tool rental stores.

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2 Comments on “How to Remove Glue and Adhesive from Floors”

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  1. Ric Says:
    October 3rd, 2009 at 8:21 am

    Suggestions for removing adhesive (Liquid nails??) from plaster walls to which a sheet backsplash was attached. PLS advise and thanx 4 ur time here Ric

  2. Melanie Says:
    January 21st, 2010 at 9:45 pm

    Hi,
    My husband and I have a bungalow from 1950. The tiles in the basement were pulled up because they were cracking and chipping. Problem is is that on about 90% of itthere is asbestos tile adhesive on the floor. Is there a way to remove this safely and cost efficiently? Or can we install a floating laminate floor over the top of it? Or Carpet?

    Thanks for your time and advice

    Melanie

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