adhesive on a prefab shower unit
Had some construction adhesive left on the floor of a fiberglass shower unit(in the no slip area). It is hard as a rock and I am not sure how to remove it. very tedious job with a knife and dificult to not damage tub. HELP, HELP. Anybody have a solution?
Thanks in advanced.
Will D
Replies
Try acetone, will strip any wax from the fiberglass but not damage it. Rewax with car wax.
Open indow - acetone on rag - hold in contact while adhesive softens - scrape big chunks off with one of those white disposable plastic putty knives - no scratches on shower.
We used to clean the glue guns with toluene, does a great job of dissolving the adhesive - not positive of effect on fiberglass - probably OK - test.
Jim
Never underestimate the value of a sharp pencil or good light.
Edit: Xylene and naptha are two other solvent candidates ( ingredients in OSI adhesive) - again not sure of their effect on fiberglass - test.
Naptha (cigarette lighter fluid) I am 99+% sure will not harm fiberglass, not sure on xylene. All of these solvents are available in my local hardware store.
Edited 12/26/2005 9:04 pm ET by JTC1
Before you try stronger options you might try simple vegetable oil. I like to use olive oil. Apply, let set for as long as you can stand and use one of those fake credit cards to scrape the adhesive. As the oil loosens the perimeter you scrape around the edge.
Work in some more oil under the edge and wait. In a few more hours you can work the perimeter again and make a little more progress. Resist the urge to go too fast.
Once done a little polish, perhaps a touch of rubbing compound, should bring back any shine lost.
Of course be sure to try the vegetable oil in an inconspicuous spot first. Vegetable oil will soften many adhesives, gums and paints.
Marine stores (West Marine, Boat/US) sell a product called "Debonder" and another release agent manufactured by Boat Life, the name of which I can not recall. I have used these products on sealants/adhesives tougher than construction adhesive, on fiberglass. I recommend giving one of those a shot. It's the only thing I know that will remove silicone (much hated) and products like 3M 5200.
Try to avoid high heat as the fumes from the adhesive may be toxic.
Good luck.
thanks for all of the suggestions. I will give them a try and report back when it is completed
Will