When removing carpet, especially old carpet, you never know what to expect when you get down to the padding. Carpet padding adhesive can be a concern for any homeowner taking steps to update his home. If you are faced with removing carpet padding that is stuck to your cement floor, don't give up hope quite yet. With a few tools, a solvent and good, old-fashioned elbow grease, you can remedy the sticky situation.
Step 1
Put on rubber gloves. Remove as much of the padding as possible using a putty knife or scraper. Mix a solution of one tsp. dish detergent and two cups warm water in a bucket. Pour the solution on the carpet padding adhesive and let it sit for 30 minutes.
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Step 2
Scrape off the wet carpet padding and adhesive with the putty knife or scraper. If there is still adhesive on the floor, apply a solvent, such as acetone or rubbing alcohol, to the adhesive and let it sit for 30 minutes.
Step 3
Scrub the adhesive with a wet sponge or cloth. You may need to apply more solvent and wait another 30 minutes to remove all of the padding and adhesive
Step 4
Clean your cement floor with a floor cleaner. Rinse well with warm water, and allow the floor to air dry.
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