We removed self stick tiles.residual glue on subfloor, will glue interfere with glue for backerboard install?

Question

Will residual glue interfere with the adherance of the backerboard glue needed to adhere backerboard to subfloor?

Answer 1

Yes, it can interfere. Normally you would remove the self stick vinyl tiles and the 1/4" plywood subfloor prior to installation of the cement backer board for tile. The surface should not be uneven or the backerboard can flex and create cracked tiles and grout. The surface the backerboard is applied to should be smooth.

Good luck with your project.

Answer 2

I think that this floor is not below grade (not in a basement) because you mention a subfloor. I also assume that the subfloor is wooden (likely plywood).

In which case any old adhesive will chemically react to the new product. Porous wood is notoriously difficult to clean because it is not sealed.

You could paint over the bits of old adhesive that would not scrape up. Or apply another layer of subfloor.

If you are laying a laminate as your final flooring, you could scrape and vacuum up what you can of the old glue and just lay the rolls of foam sheeting directly. The laminate (and I only use the non-glue type) snaps into place right on top of the foam.

This last alternative is the least intensive and most economical. We have laminate in 4 rooms. We've even taken one room up and relaid it. Drop dead easy and fast.

Answer 3

Too funny, we just did the same thing on our concrete floor, those things are murder. We scraped the glue up as best as we could and left it. The tile/hardwood guys said its fine and they can work over it!

if you want to try (which we did) and remove it there is adhesive remover (pretty pricey) at home depot and/or paint thinner (cheaper). You will need major ventilation and a face mask (VERY smelly/Caustic)stuff!

Answer 4

I think "RONCO" has just the thing, that uses no undesirable chemicals (such as harsh petroleum based products) and is made from the extremely rare African bran muffin. You just set it and forget it. (on your forehead,that is..for about an hour).. and poof, the glue is softened and then is easily removed with a brillo pad.