Removing Foundation Tar
Summary: Removing foundation tar is not easy. It can also be dangerous. Do not use solvents like gasoline, paint thinner or mineral spirits because of the extreme fire danger.
Dear Kim: That dampproofing tar is probably old-fashioned asphalt cement. If so, the only liquids I know that will get it off are volatile and dangerous solvents like paint thinner, gasoline, kerosene, etc. These are all distilled hydrocarbons that can soften the tar. I would not use them as the fire hazard is so extreme.
The first thing I would try is a sandblaster. If you are lucky, a tool rental shop may have a small sandblasting kit that works off of an air compressor used by carpenters. Test it for effectiveness. If it works, then move up to the industrial sandblaster that uses the giant compressor contractors use to power jack hammers.
If this fails, then contact the different foundation dampproofing companies in your area. Tell them you have to remove asphalt cement from a foundation and see if they have a suggestion. After all, they apply the asphalt cement all day and perhaps they make mistakes and spray it where it doesn't belong.
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Comments:
Esmie 31 May 2009, 14:48
How can I remove tar from my cement floor? They are installing ceramic tile
in that floor.
michele 15 Sep 2009, 15:44
Help
Problem with removing tar from concrete floor which was put down under hardwood flooring. we want to lay ceramic tile and do not kinow how to remove tar safely from original concrete Please give suggestions. thanks
Ed Williams 04 Jan 2010, 22:03
I am trying to put down a new tile floor on a cement floor. The cement
floor has had inlaid linoleum with an asphalt backing previously laid on
it. When I use my straight hoe to scrape the tile up, the backing stays on
the floor. I have had to chisel it loose.
I need something that is not flamable that will disolve the tar. Any solutions?
Ted 09 Feb 2010, 21:12
Mineral spirits?
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