Wondering how to remove glue from a vinyl floor, siding, or similar surfaces? The following tips and tricks will enable you to do it right the first time and minimize the chances of damaging the surface.
Vinyl flooring is very popular in modern homes because it looks great. It’s also easy to install and quite durable. Most dirt and spills are easily cleaned up. However, what do you do if you get PVC glue or super glue on your vinyl floor?
Let’s deal with PVC glue first. PVC stands for polyvinyl chloride; this glue is ideal for plumbing applications, such as joining plastic pipes and making repairs.
If you spill some PVC glue on your vinyl floor while doing a plumbing repair, try to clean it up before it dries. A damp cloth is usually sufficient to wipe it away.
If the PVC glue has already dried, follow these steps:
- Using a small scraper or putty knife, gently scrape away as much of the dried glue as possible. Keep the blade at a low angle and try not to twist it to one side or the other to avoid scratching the floor.
- Use a soft cloth and some acetone or nail polish remover to soften the remaining residue. Don’t soak the area but rather dab the spot with acetone repeatedly and try to wipe it away a little at a time.
- Once the glue has softened, try using the scraper again. Repeat dabbing, scraping, and wiping until all the glue is gone.
- Finally, wipe the area down with a fresh clean cloth and some water. Then dry the floor.
If you want to remove glued PVC pipe from a fitting after the glue has dried, it may not be possible without cutting the pipe and replacing that section. Sometimes, though, you may be able to get it loose with the following suggestions.
PVC glue is meant to be a permanent bond and actually “welds” the plastic parts together. By softening this bond, you may be able to break the weld and separate the pipe from a fitting.
First, try heat. Using a hairdryer or heat gun, gradually heat the area and periodically try twisting the pipe and fitting. You may find that it loosens up.
In addition, try adding a little of the PVC adhesive to the glued area. Although this sounds counterproductive, the fresh glue may soften the bond further, allowing you to twist it loose.
However, a firm bond may not give way, and the only alternative is to cut the pipe and replace that section.
If you have some drips of super glue on your vinyl floor or another vinyl surface, what is the best way to remove it?
Your first step is to try the method mentioned above, scraping away what you can and then using acetone to soften the dried super glue.
Alternative solvents that may do the trick are isopropyl alcohol or vinegar.
Another way to remove super glue from vinyl is to use a professional glue remover. Loctite Glue Remover will remove spills and glue stains from most surfaces.
This easy-to-use gel formula will soften most types of glue, including super glue. It will also loosen bonded fingers safely. You should always wash thoroughly after using it on your skin.
The best way to avoid these situations is to use a glue dispenser that will prevent drips and spills.
Loctite Super Glue Precision is a great option. The extra-long nozzle will make precise application a cinch. Loctite super glue is fast drying and forms a durable, transparent bond. It’s resistant to water, shock, and extreme temperatures, making it perfect for virtually any repair.
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