How to Remove Urethane
Once any urethane adhesive has cured, it is extremely difficult to remove without damaging the surface beneath or whatever it encapsulates. It is important that if you spill urethane adhesive that you remove excess as quickly as possible before it completely dries.
Here are a few things you can do to remove urethane from places you don't want it to be.
Things You Will Need
- Urethane Adhesive Remover
- Mineral Spirits
- Soft cloth
- Putty knife or metal scraper
- Propane torch (optional)
Warning
Work in an adequately ventilated area and take all precautions to prevent contact with skin and not to inhale the vapors while using any removal product. Protect surrounding surfaces when cleaning urethane so that the heat from the torch or removal solvents don't damage nearby glued joints and objects. If you use a propane torch, be sure to follow all manufacturer safety directions. Clean tools when the job is done for later use.
Urethane Removers
-
Apply either a specific urethane adhesive remover solution, mineral spirits or methyline chloride to the adhesive.
-
Make certain you totally cover all of the adhesive you are removing. Protect surrounding areas from spills and splashes to prevent places becoming unglued that you don't want to come unglued.
-
Allow the solution to sit for 15 minutes and soften the dried adhesive.
-
Wipe the spot with a soft cloth to remove loosened adhesive. If the adhesive is not completely removed, repeat.
-
Gently work loose any remaining adhesive with a putty knife or flat scraper. Be careful not to damage the surface underneath. Wipe off the area with a cloth and warm water.
For More Durable Surfaces
-
Heat the adhesive with a propane torch until it softens. This way works best on metal and concrete, but cannot be done if the surface beneath the glue is fragile.
-
Insert a chisel or sharp faced tool to chip away the urethane once its temperature has been raised above the softening point.
-
Gently wipe down the area with a warm wet cloth to remove any loose residue.
The Drip Cap
- Once any urethane adhesive has cured, it is extremely difficult to remove without damaging the surface beneath or whatever it encapsulates.
- Here are a few things you can do to remove urethane from places you don't want it to be.
- Heat the adhesive with a propane torch until it softens.
References
Writer Bio
Tom King published his first paid story in 1976. His book, "Going for the Green: An Insider's Guide to Raising Money With Charity Golf," was published in 2008. He received gold awards for screenwriting at the 1994 Worldfest Charleston and 1995 Worldfest Houston International Film Festivals. King holds a Bachelor of Arts in communications from Southwestern Adventist College.
More Articles
