How To Remove Tile Adhesive From Concrete Floor?

If you’re remodeling your home, you may need to remove tile adhesive from your concrete floor. It’s important to know the best ways to remove it. Otherwise, you could do more damage than good to your floor.

As long as you take the time to prepare the concrete, use the right adhesive remover, and follow specific instructions from your manufacturer, you should be able to remove tile adhesive with minimal damage to your floor.

Here are some tips on removing tile adhesive from concrete flooring safely and effectively so that you can start enjoying the rest of your remodel project!

Read More: Adhesive Tile Mat vs. Mortar

What I'll Cover

How to Remove Tile Adhesive from Concrete Floor?

Before you start

Read the label on your chosen adhesive remover to ensure it will be effective on tile adhesive.
Put on gloves and protective eyewear.
Ventilate the area by opening windows or using a fan.
Cover any areas you don’t want to get remover on with painter’s tape.
Pour the remover onto the floor and spread it with a brush.
Let it sit for the amount of time recommended on the label.
Scrub the adhesive with a stiff brush until it loosens, then mop up the mess with a wet rag or sponge.

Step 1: Scrape off the loose residue

If there is any loose residue on the surface of the tile adhesive, use a putty knife or similar tool to scrape it off.

You may need to apply some elbow grease, but it’s important to get as much of the loose material off as possible.

Step 2: Use Vinegar to dissolve the glue

Pour a cup of vinegar into a bucket and add equal water. Use a sponge to apply the vinegar solution to the tile adhesive.

Let it sit for several minutes. The vinegar will start to dissolve the glue. You may need to apply additional vinegar if the adhesive is stubborn.

Once the glue has dissolved, use a putty knife or scraper to remove it from the floor. You may need to use a stiff brush to remove any stubborn residue.

Step 3: Buff away any extra residue

You may need to use a little elbow grease to remove all the residue. Once you’ve removed as much as you can, buff the area with a clean cloth.

If there are still some stubborn bits of adhesive, you can try using a mild solvent like rubbing alcohol. Be sure to test it in an inconspicuous spot first to make sure it doesn’t damage your floor.

Step 4: Clean with soap and water

First, remove as much of the tile adhesive as possible with a putty knife. Next, mix a solution of one part water and one part vinegar.

Then, using a sponge, mop the floor with the vinegar solution. After that, rinse the floor with clean water. Finally, dry the floor with a towel.

Step 5: Seal the floor after it dries

After the floor has dried, you’ll want to seal it. This will help protect the concrete and make it easier to clean. You can use a variety of sealants, but we recommend water-based polyurethane.

Start by applying a thin layer with a brush or roller, then wait for it to dry. Once it’s dry, apply a second coat. Wipe off any excess sealant before it dries, leaving behind streaks that are difficult to remove.

Allow 24 hours for the first coat and 72 hours for each additional coat to dry before moving on to furniture placement.

Concluding Remarks

Assuming you followed the steps above, your concrete floor should now be tile adhesive-free. If you have any lingering adhesive residue, you can try using a putty knife or paint scraper to remove it.

You may also need to use a strong solvent such as acetone or methylene chloride. Always test a small area first to ensure the solvent will not damage your floor.

Will Goo Gone Remove Tile Adhesive?

Yes, Goo Gone will remove tile adhesive from concrete floors. Here’s how to do it:

Identify the type of tile adhesive you’re dealing with. There are two types: water-based and solvent-based.
If the tile adhesive is water-based, mix equal parts of Goo Gone and water in a bucket.
For solvent-based tile adhesive, use Goo Gone full strength.
Apply the solution to the floor with a sponge or mop, working in small sections.
Let the solution sit for 5-10 minutes before scrubbing with a brush or power washer.
Use a scraper if needed to help break up any remaining glue residue.
Rinse off with clean water after 10 minutes of scrubbing/power washing and allow to dry. Be sure to wear protective gear when using chemicals like Goo Gone.