How to Remove Heavy Duty Velcro Strips
An inventor named George de Mestral created the first hook and loop fastener in the 1940's. As he was studying the surface of a cocklebur under a microscope he realized the ability this natural material had to adhere to other surfaces such as animal fur, hair and wool.
Today's heavy duty Velcro strips out-perform the cocklebur by being able to hold things together with incredible strength. Adhesives hold Velcro to a wide variety of surfaces. These adhesives must be deactivated before the Velcro fabric can be removed.
Things You Will Need
- Plastic putty knife
- Citrus based adhesive remover
- Pliers
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Peel one corner of the Velcro strip up with a plastic putty knife.
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Apply a citrus-based adhesive remover to the peeled corner of the Velcro strip. Push the remover into the peeling edge of the Velcro with the putty knife.
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Grip the peeling corner with a pair of pliers and pull it away from the surface. Continue applying adhesive remover to the peeling edge with the putty knife as you pull on the Velcro strip. The idea is to dissolve the adhesive enough for the bond between the Velcro fabric and the surface to break down. Repeat this process until the Velcro is removed.
Tip
After the Velcro comes off, use the adhesive remover to take off any remaining adhesive residue. Follow the specified safety warnings and directions on the brand of adhesive remover you use.
Warning
Always do a spot test in an inconspicuous area to ensure the remover doesn't ruin the surface you're trying to get the Velcro off of.
The Drip Cap
- An inventor named George de Mestral created the first hook and loop fastener in the 1940's.
- Apply a citrus-based adhesive remover to the peeled corner of the Velcro strip.
- The idea is to dissolve the adhesive enough for the bond between the Velcro fabric and the surface to break down.
References
Photo Credits
- Comstock/Comstock/Getty Images
- Comstock/Comstock/Getty Images
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