Removing Asphalt Tile Adhesive

If asphalt tile has been installed over a wood floor, and is removed in order to finish the wood floor naturally, the black adhesive from the tile is difficult to remove.

To remove it:

1. Get a gallon of solvent with no oil in it at the hardware;

2. Check label and if flammable then be very sure no flame or spark in the room or in any adjoining rooms as fumes can travel;

3. Do only when windows can be open for ventilation;

4. Apply solvent to adhesive and let stand until adhesive softens;

5. Scrape off as much adhesive as possible;

6. Repeat process;

7. After almost all is removed, sand floor to remove last residue.

This is hard, time consuming work, and dangerous unless all cautions in using solvent are followed carefully.

Check with a flooring center store to see if they have any newer products that are easier to use to remove the adhesive.

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This article was written by Anne Field, Michigan State University Extension Specialist, Emeritus with references from the MSU Maintenance and Floor Center.

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