Cement or construction adhesive left on concrete can be tough to remove once it has hardened, and simply scraping or rinsing the area will not be enough to remove the residue.
There are three ways to remove construction or brick adhesive from concrete, depending on what glue was used and how recently it was applied.
If you’re trying to remove dried-up adhesive, you’ll need to act quickly before it sets; if the adhesive is still soft, you’ll have more time to work with it and limit the amount of scrubbing necessary to remove it completely.
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Does Anything Dissolve Construction Adhesive?
A few things can dissolve construction adhesive, making it easier to remove from concrete. These include acetone, alcohol, petroleum jelly, and white vinegar. However, before trying any of these methods, it’s important to test them in an inconspicuous area first.
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How To Remove Construction Adhesive From Concrete?
Method 1: Sharp Chisel and Hammer
Use a sharp chisel and hammer to remove construction adhesive from concrete.
First, score the adhesive with the chisel to make small grooves.
Next, insert the chisel under the adhesive and pry it up. Be sure to work slowly and carefully to avoid damaging the concrete.
Finally, use a wire brush or sandpaper to remove any remaining adhesive. If you have a lot of leftover adhesive, contact an expert for help or follow the next methods.
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Method 2: Use an Epoxy Remover
An epoxy remover is a good option if you’re looking for a strong adhesive remover. It’s important to read the label carefully and choose a product specifically designed for concrete.
Apply the epoxy remover according to the instructions on the label, which will vary depending on the product.
You’ll usually need to wait at least 15 minutes for the epoxy remover to work before scraping it off with a putty knife. If there’s still adhesive residue left behind, you can try repeating the process or using another removal method.
Try Non-Acidic Products: One solution to remove construction adhesive from concrete is to use non-acidic products such as turpentine, paint thinner, mineral spirits, benzene or acetone.
For example, pour turpentine onto the area with construction adhesive and let it soak in. Scrape away what was loosened after 10 minutes with a putty knife. Repeat if necessary until all of the adhesive has been removed.
Try Rubbing Alcohol:
- Mix equal parts of rubbing alcohol and water together in a spray bottle, then spritz over the area with construction adhesive until you see some looseness in the material (usually about 2-3 times).
- Wait 20 minutes before scraping away what was loosened by using a putty knife.
- Once everything has been loosened, wash the area with soap and water.
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Method 3: Use a Heat Gun
If you’re trying to remove construction adhesive from concrete, one of the most effective methods is to use a heat gun. Heat guns are designed to emit high levels of heat, which can help loosen the bond between the adhesive and the concrete. Plus, they’re relatively easy to use – point and shoot. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to go about it.
1) Use the heat gun in short bursts to not overheat the surface of the concrete or scorch its finish.
2) Start at one end of your object and work your way down slowly to maintain your focus and avoid missing any areas. Don’t forget those hard-to-reach corners!
3) Remember that this process can take some time (depending on size), so be patient while waiting for your project to complete! When you’ve successfully removed all of the adhesives, you’ll know that there is no evidence left behind on the concrete surface.
You may need to wait anywhere from 30 minutes to a few hours before wiping up excess glue residue with a damp rag or sponge.
If all else fails, apply chemical solvent: Applying chemical solvents like acetone or methylene chloride may also work, but remember that these substances are hazardous and should be used only by professionals.
Read More: Best Construction Adhesive For Concrete
Method 4: Douse It in Mineral Spirits
You can use mineral spirits as a solvent to remove construction adhesive from concrete. Just douse the area with mineral spirits and let it sit for a few minutes.
Then, use a putty knife or sharp object to scrape the adhesive. If necessary, you can repeat this process.
After scraping off the old adhesives, patch up any holes in your concrete surface before applying a new sealant or coating.
Last Opinion
There are a few different ways to remove construction adhesive from concrete, and the best method will depend on the type of construction adhesive you’re dealing with. If you’re unsure what kind of adhesive you have, you can always consult a professional.
