How do I remove epoxy?

What is epoxy?

Epoxy is a two-component, heavy-duty adhesive that is often used in many different repair projects, from fixing unstable furniture to restoring floors. The epoxy can be used as a covering layer, which is also possible with glass fibres. Epoxy glue is also widely used as a repair glue, where a solid substance is used as a filler ("liquid steel" or "liquid wood"). Want to learn more about what epoxy is and how to use it? Then also read epoxy processing for beginners.

Removing epoxy

If used incorrectly, epoxy will end up in places where you don't want it and can cause damage and stains. To prevent this, it is important to use the correct method of epoxy resin removal. Below you can read more about the solutions for different surfaces, so that you always know how to remove epoxy.

Removing an epoxy floor

Are you going to install a completely different floor in your house and do you want to remove an epoxy cast floor first? There are two ways to remove the epoxy resin:

Call in a professional: you can call in a specialist who will scrape away the old cast floor for you. The specialist will do this quickly, finishing a few square metres per day.
Possibly cheaper option: you can opt for a different top layer.

Removing epoxy from wood and concrete

Has epoxy resin ended up on your wooden floor where you don't want it? Avoid using alcohol and paint thinners as these can damage or discolor the wood. Use acetone to remove the epoxy from the wood or concrete. You can then easily remove any epoxy pieces if it has come loose. The remaining acetone evaporates so it will not be a problem.

Alternative way of removing epoxy

It is also possible to use heat to remove epoxy. This way you can melt difficult-to-remove epoxy residue on wood so that you can easily scrape it away. Be careful not to use acetone first and then apply heat because acetone is highly flammable. Also put on leather work gloves to protect your hands and hold the heat gun. Set the heat gun to approximately 80 degrees Celsius and work a few centimeters above the area to be removed. Keep moving the heat gun back and forth so it doesn't burn. Then go over it with a scraper while the drops of epoxy are still soft.

More information?

Please contact our customer service if you have any further questions: support@polyestershoppen.com. Our staff is ready to assist you. Of course, you can also check out our other articles in the information centre.