Removing stains left by foam/rubber underlay

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01-17-16, 03:00 PM

AndrewA8

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Removing stains left by foam/rubber underlay

Hello, I recently removed carpet. From my stairs and there was a foam/rubber underlay glued to wood. It comes up pretty good by scraping but not completely and there's quite a few black spots. Is there any way to bring this up to restore the steps? They would be in good shape just to paint and replace the stringer. Please see picture. Thanks in advance.

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01-17-16, 03:03 PM

stickshift

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I've removed this residue previously with mineral spirits and a scraper. Make sure you have good ventilation if you go down this route.

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01-17-16, 03:04 PM

marksr

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The pic isn't showing - http://www.doityourself.com/forum/el...your-post.html

Are the treads finished or was the carpet installed over bare wood?

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01-17-16, 03:09 PM

AndrewA8

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The carpet had a foam underlay stapled then this black rubber foam. Seems redundant to me.

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01-17-16, 03:16 PM

AndrewA8

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Here they are. Tried some stuff to loosen carpet adhesive, didnt work. more worried about the black color left.

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01-17-16, 03:26 PM

marksr

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As mentioned above, scrubbing and scraping with mineral spirits [along with a lot of elbow grease :eek] should remove it but it will also stain the wood. Not a big deal if you paint but could hamper any type of natural or stain finish. Sanding will also work. Neither would be a job I'd look forward to

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01-17-16, 08:30 PM

sam floor

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Try a little hot water and elbow grease. That rubber backing came off a glue down carpet and if you are lucky it was installed with latex adhesive.

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01-18-16, 08:26 AM

AndrewA8

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Thanks to all who replied. Will try the hot water and if no luck will get some mineral spirits.

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