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Glam Journal

How do I remove cutback adhesive from concrete?

Author

Chloe Ramirez

Updated on April 07, 2026

How do I remove cutback adhesive from concrete?

“Asphalt-based cutback adhesives can be removed over concrete substrates readily using mechanical means like razor scraping or shot blasting, but should be done only by a certified asbestos removal agency unless you know for certain that there is no asbestos involved,” notes Johnson.

How do you remove black mastic from asbestos?

Mastic must be removed using wet methods when it contains asbestos fibers. This can be done by dissolving the mastic with a suitable solvent, then using a HEPA-filter equipped vacuuming device to remove and pick-up the resulting slurry. Mastic cannot be ground, sanded or abraded to accomplish removal.

How do you cover cutback adhesive?

The Cutback Adhesive can be covered with a cementious patch or self leveler, or use the Triseal and an adhesive for vinyl that can be used dry to the touch.

Can you tile over black adhesive?

The black glue you refer to is called “Cutback”. It is a black asphalt-based adhesive frequently used in the past to install vinyl asbestos tile, asphalt tile and vinyl composition tile often containing asbestos. Today, most adhesives are not compatible with cutback because it is an oil based product.

What’s the best way to remove cutback adhesive?

Brush on some cutback adhesive remover with an inexpensive bristle brush. For larger areas, pour the adhesive remover onto the adhesive then brush it around to obtain full coverage. Allow the adhesive remover to sit on the adhesive.

Can you use cutback glue on black mastic?

It can be used to coat any black mastic adhesive. Since it seals and primes the surface at the same time, there is no need to remove cutback glue or materials like black mastic. The result is a mess-free job that is safer and less challenging than removing the black mastic.

How to safely remove asbestos black mastic and cutback?

PerfectPrimer Products developed PerfectPrimer in order to seal asbestos black mastic. It can be used to coat any black mastic adhesive. Since it seals and primes the surface at the same time, there is no need to remove cutback glue or materials like black mastic.

What to do with cut back adhesive from shot blasting?

Shot blasting then requires a self leveling compound to smooth out the rough subflooring. You can patch or self level over the Cutback Adhesive using a cementious compound. Please note, some manufacturers require a 1/8” application of cementious compound to prevent bleeding. Remove excessive adhesive until you have “residual” adhesive left.

Brush on some cutback adhesive remover with an inexpensive bristle brush. For larger areas, pour the adhesive remover onto the adhesive then brush it around to obtain full coverage. Allow the adhesive remover to sit on the adhesive.

Is it safe to remove cutback glue from mastic?

Because it seals and primes your surface, there’s no need to safely remove cutback glue or the black mastic material. In many situations, covering up and sealing the black mastic is actually safer than attempting its challenging removal. Once the mastic surface is sealed and primed, you can apply your epoxy or paint.

Shot blasting then requires a self leveling compound to smooth out the rough subflooring. You can patch or self level over the Cutback Adhesive using a cementious compound. Please note, some manufacturers require a 1/8” application of cementious compound to prevent bleeding. Remove excessive adhesive until you have “residual” adhesive left.

What to do with asbestos cut back adhesive?

If the cutback does not contain asbestos, you may grind or even shot blast the adhesive away. Shot blasting then requires a self leveling compound to smooth out the rough subflooring. You can patch or self level over the Cutback Adhesive using a cementious compound.