Removing glue residue from panels

If you want to remove glue or film residues, you do need to know what you're doing. Before you know it, you'll be dealing with cleaning spots or other damage to the top coat as a result of inappropriate cleaning methods. We use the right materials, chemicals and high-pressure cleaners to clean these surfaces, drawing from the experience and knowledge we've gained from a variety of earlier projects.

The coated surfaces of profiles and panels are highly sensitive, and not all chemical detergents may be suitable. 

Every project comes with risks. We always make an assessment of the pollution in advance. We then usually use a sample piece to minimise these risks and make sure we're using the right product. Based on our knowledge and experience, we can avoid several pitfalls and use the right technique. The correct approach may differ from project to project.

We recommend following the supplier's instructions, as all films differ. It's usually best to immediately remove it when you're lifting the panels and sheets. Darker colours absorb more heat, so these surfaces are more prone to glue residues. The seasons also play a role. Adhesive films are often water-based products. When exposed to water for extended periods of time, the glue in the film may start to dissolve.

Glue residue on the panel or profiles does not affect the quality of the product or its coating. However, the result is not particularly aesthetically pleasing. Dust and dirt easily adhere to the leftover glue. The longer the residues are exposed to sun and heat, the harder it becomes to clean them. We've seen situations where the glue had penetrated the pores of the top coating. In this case, the glue cures completely and merges with the surface.

If the glue residues have fully penetrated the pores of the top coat and cured, the only thing we can do is sand the surface and recoat it. We can take care of this.

Our company primarily focusses on specific pollution, such as glue residues and rust. Since we have constant projects in this sector, we often have too little manpower for “standard cleaning services”. In some cases, however, we can perform these services in combination with other projects. You can always contact us with any questions you may have.

It's a common issue in this sector: cleaning companies use the wrong detergent or method for the polluted surface. This may lead to irreparable stains on façades or other coated components, such as frames and doors.

Van Heemskerk is usually able to provide a solution for your problem, through cleaning, recoating or even replacement. Ask us about the options and send us an email with pictures of your issue. We have already brought many of those “problematic projects” to a satisfying conclusion. On top of that, we receive advice from panels and sheeting suppliers.