How to Remove Latex Rubber Carpet and Tile Adhesive from a Cement Floor

Step-by-Step Guide

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   Step 1: Read this over

   For some people, hiring out the job is a better choice.
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   Step 2: then decide if you have the time

   , If you want the mastic completely removed, 100% gone, understand that under normal circumstances that cannot be accomplished.
   
   Some mastic will have filled small voids in the surface of the cement and will always be visible.
   
   However, if you get to that stage, then the surface will probably be very close to perfectly smooth, and with acid etching it will satisfactorily accept a concrete paint or "stain" . ,,,,, It will show signs of dissolving.
   
   With a putty knife, scrape up the softened mess and discard.
   
   You won't get the mastic all off in one pass.
   
   Repeat two or three times using the chemical remover. , It works well, but it is pricey, and without excellent ventilation it will kill brain cells. ,, Solutions for acid washing are widely available, and if the worker wears proper protection for the eyes, hands, arms, and feet it goes quickly. , This follow with a commercial, clear sealer makes a very acceptable finish.
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   Step 3: physical health

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   Step 4: and desire to start the job.

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   Step 5: If the area covered with dried mastic is greater than 25-30 sq ft

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   Step 6: or if the area is in an enclosed area that cannot be well-ventilated

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   Step 7: seriously consider hiring out the job.

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   Step 8: How much must you remove?

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   Step 9: Pull up the carpeting or tile

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    Step 10: and scrape the mastic-impregnated surface with a flatnose shovel.

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    Step 11: Next try a one-inch or smaller wood chisel.

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    Step 12: Next try a razor-blade paint remover

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    Step 13: the kind used for window glass.

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    Step 14: What remains is best treated with chemicals.

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    Step 15: Put a golf-ball-sized glob of commercial latex mastic remover on a 4 x 4-in spot and wait 10 minutes.

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    Step 16: When you've cleaned off about all you can with the chemical

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    Step 17: you can remove the haze of mastic left by wiping down small areas with lacquer thinner.

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    Step 18: Remove the stubborn

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    Step 19: small patches of mastic remaining by rubbing them off with a pumice stone

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    Step 20: such as those sold in swimming pool materials departments of building supply stores.

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    Step 21: The distressed look of the smooth surface might not be acceptable

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    Step 22: but the surface can be easily acid washed and painted.

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    Step 23: Semi-transparent concrete paint or "stain" is easily sprayed over the cleaned and etched concrete surface using a gardener's pump sprayer.

Detailed Guide

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