If asphalt tile has been installed over a wood floor & 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 store

2) Check label & 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 & dangerous unless all cautions in using solvent are followed carefully.

This article was written by Anne Field, Extension Specialist, Emeritus w/ references from the MSU Maintenance & Floor Center.

Plumbing Tools & Materials • 1 gallon of solvent (w/o oil) • scraper • sanding paper

Difficulty: Intermediate

Repair Time: 1-2 hours

Advice by Friendly Plumber ® • Check with a flooring center store to see if they have any newer products that are easier to use to remove the adhesive.