Klean-Strip®

Remove Adhesive

Step 1: Pull up linoleum, tiles or paneling

There is often rock hard old glue standing between you and a new floor. If covered over, these adhesives could cause problems in the new floor covering. The good news is, old floor glue can almost always be removed by reversing its chemistry to soften it.

Step 2: Apply the remover

Pour 1-1/2 pints (2-3 cups) over a small area no large than 9 sq. ft. You can pour it directly from the original container or a metal bucket.

Step 3: Cover the remover

Lay a heavy plastic drop cloth over the puddle of Klean-Strip Adhesive Remover. This allows you to spread the material more easily, but it also prevents the Adhesive Remover from evaporating prematurely.

Step 4: Spread it evenly

Use a long-handled paint roller on top of the plastic with very little pressure to spread the Klean-Strip Adhesive Remover under the plastic, just to the edges. Do not step on the covered area as plastic may become slippery. Leave the area and let the remover do the work. Do not allow the stripper to completely dry on the surface as the adhesive can re-adhere.

Step 5: Removal

After 15-30 minutes, you should start to see the chemical reaction happening. The glue will start to bubble up and swell, and this will show that the finish is separating itself from the surface. Scrape a small test area to see if the adhesive is softened and ready for removal. If so, fold back the plastic sheeting. Use the long-handled sidewalk scraper or floor hoe to scrape loosened adhesive. Any stripper that is still liquid can be pushed into the next 9 sq. ft. area and reused.

Return unused remover to the original container. Seal container tightly and store in a cool, dry place.

The work area and tools can be cleaned with soap and water. Wash arms and hands after use - even if gloves are worn.

Allow liquid to evaporate and residue to dry outdoors. Then dispose of in a metal container in accordance with local, state and federal regulations.

After each work session, place all rags, applicators, and old-finish residue in a well-ventilated area. Allow liquid to evaporate and residue to dry outdoors then dispose of in accordance with federal, state and local regulations.

If you need assistance, please contact a technical services representative at 800-398-3892, or email us at kleanStrip@wmbarr.com.

1. Read the instructions

Always read all cautions and directions on the product label before beginning a project. You should understand all aspects of the project before you begin. You can also print this project plan and bring it along with you to the job site.

2. Prepare the work area

For best results, use chemicals in temperatures between 65^° and 85^° F and away from strong breeze and hot sun. Stripping a large area such as floors has the potential to result in high levels of potentially hazardous vapors. Working within a small area at a time makes the job easier and decreases hazards. Vapors tend to collect along the floor, so do as much work as possible using the long-handled tools to avoid bending and crawling. If working indoors, open all windows and doors and maintain a cross ventilation of moving fresh air across the work area.

3. Ready to begin

When you are ready to get started, put on your chemical splash goggles and chemical-resistant gloves. Make sure your mop is within easy reach for quick clean-up of any splashes during the project.

Having trouble removing linoleum tiles? Rent a power-scraper. They have a sharp blade to get under tile and break it off from the adhesive. They're noisy and sometimes difficult to control, but may be worth looking into if you have a lot of tile to remove.