Removing adhesive from hardwood? (NOT carpet glue)

[Joshin]

So we are finally ripping out the horrible, cheap, stained white carpet. The wood floors beneath are in beautiful condition and the installers didn't go crazy with nailing strips or staples.

Problem? In a few areas there is some kind of adhesive, but it's not a carpet glue or tar-based adhesive. It's clear and still slightly sticky -- almost like the tacky residue left behind by clear labels on glass bottles. We're doing this on a next to no budget, so we're trying to avoid sanding, etc, since the floors are otherwise in great condition.

Any clues what kind of glue this is and what would be the best solvent to get it up?
Thanks!

[ryanthequark]

If you post this same query in a home improvement forum, their ideas may add to the ones people contribute here.

My own thoughts? I'd do the sanding. Partly that's because I like to avoid solvents in the same way it sounds like you like to avoid sanding. And partly that's because I just don't know of any solvents that might help. I do have some experience: my mother tore off the linoleum from the wood set of stairs in our house, and there were two kinds of glue underneath. Neither one was still sticky, though: one could be chipped off and the other one just had to be sanded. So, she sanded.

I hope you find what you're looking for!

[NumberJohnny5]

Heat gun?

[BlueBeard]

I would start with rubbing alcohol, move on to acetone, and then goof off.  I have removed some pretty sticky stuff with each of these.  Heat gun like another mentioned may work, but I would be very careful with wood.  I have used it on fiberglass and metal to remove stickers with ease.

[Drifterrider]

So we are finally ripping out the horrible, cheap, stained white carpet. The wood floors beneath are in beautiful condition and the installers didn't go crazy with nailing strips or staples.

Problem? In a few areas there is some kind of adhesive, but it's not a carpet glue or tar-based adhesive. It's clear and still slightly sticky -- almost like the tacky residue left behind by clear labels on glass bottles. We're doing this on a next to no budget, so we're trying to avoid sanding, etc, since the floors are otherwise in great condition.

Any clues what kind of glue this is and what would be the best solvent to get it up?
Thanks!

I would start with a "scrubby" sponge (the kind used for dishes).  The "rough part"  "should not" mar the flooring.  If it doesn't work you are only out a bit of time.  Try it with a bit of lube (dish soap or just water).

[BBub]

To reaffirm some of the other suggestions: a heat gun, goof off  & a painters knife should do the trick.  You can buy all 3 for like $40 bucks.