How To Remove PL400 Construction Adhesive

PL400 construction adhesive is used to bond siding, metal and panels to walls and subfloors, in lieu of nails. If you are undergoing a home remodeling project, you may find items bonded together with the adhesive. Once the construction material is separated from walls or subfloors, you will have to remove the adhesive and residue left behind. This process can take several attempts, depending on how thick it was applied. Even with repeated attempts, a thin layer of adhesive may be permanent.

Step 1

Use a razor blade or putty knife to scrape away any large clumps of PL400 construction adhesive. Do not dig into or scrape the sheetrock under the adhesive.

Step 2

Dampen a clean rag in mineral spirits, paint thinner or caulk and adhesive remover.

Step 3

Rub the rag into the adhesive, until the entire area is coated in a generous layer of product.

Step 4

Allow the product to work into the adhesive for the amount of time specified on the product. For paint thinners and mineral spirits, this is approximately 10 minutes; for caulk and adhesive removals, this is approximately 15 minutes.

Step 5

Use a rag dampened with to attempt to wipe off the adhesive residue. If it removed, proceed to Step 4. If it does not wipe off, repeat Step 2 as many times as needed until the residue wipes away.

Step 6

Fill a sink with water as hot as you can stand to touch and a squirt of liquid dish soap. Dip a clean rag in the soapy water.

Step 7

Wipe down the surface with the soapy cloth to remove the adhesive.

Step 8

Repeat the process until all the layers of adhesive are removed, or no more adhesive is being removed.

Step 9

Allow the surface to air dry.