How To Remove Super Glue On Granite

By  Chris Deziel

Many companies manufacture quick-setting adhesives that are strong enough — according to one iconic ad — to support a construction worker from a beam. Even if that is an overstatement, cyanoacrylate adhesives are definitely difficult to remove, but they have an Achilles heel — acetone. Armed with a bottle of nail polish remover or some acetone-based paint thinner from your garage, you can quickly relegate that glue stain on your granite countertop to history. If the granite has a finish, you'll have to repair the finish after removing the glue, but you can limit the size of the repair by being careful.

Removal Procedure

Things Needed

  • Cotton swab

  • Acetone or acetone-based nail polish remover

  • Rag

  • Toothbrush

  • Razor knife

  • Soap

Step 1

Moisten a cotton swab with acetone or nail polish remover; if you're using nail polish remover, you can also use the applicator that comes in some of the bottles. Check the label to make sure the nail polish remover contains acetone. If it doesn't, it's still worth a try.

Tip

Use lacquer thinner as an alternative to acetone, but again, check the label to make sure the thinner contains acetone. If it doesn't, it might not work.

Step 2

Dab the glue stain carefully, taking care to avoid the surrounding granite as much as possible. This is most important if the granite has a finish; if it doesn't, the surface will be unaffected by the acetone, so you can spread the solvent more liberally.

Warning

Acetone and lacquer thinner are powerful solvents, so wear rubber gloves and ventilate the room while using them. If you're sensitive to VOCs, wear a respirator.

Step 3

Wipe off the glue with a rag while the acetone is wet. If it doesn't come off, try scrubbing it with a toothbrush or scraping it with a razor knife or putty knife. Apply more solvent and repeat as necessary.

Step 4

Wash the area with soap and water after removing all the glue; then repair the finish if necessary.

Recommended