removing leak "fix" of PO (tar)

obxairstream · 05-14-2008, 02:33 AM

Th PO sealed the leaks arroung the roof with a liberal application of aluminum tape and roofing tar

. any sugestions for removal? My thoughts go toward a torch or heat gun.
Jon

lewster · 05-14-2008, 06:39 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by obxairstream

Th PO sealed the leaks arroung the roof with a liberal application of aluminum tape and roofing tar

. any sugestions for removal? My thoughts go toward a torch or heat gun.
Jon

Jon,

I would go the solvent route and NOT use any type of torch or heat gun. You will distort your aluminum with the heat!!!

Excella CM · 05-14-2008, 10:41 AM

On a really hot day you might be able to use a plastic scraper to remove the bulk of the softened tar and then follow-up with petroleum solvent.

Fyrzowt · 05-14-2008, 12:15 PM

I agree with all of the above.
When you get to the solvent part, lay some old fabric down over the part you want to loosen and soak the fabric with solvent. This will concentrate it on the tar and help reduce evaporation.
Dave

obxairstream · 05-15-2008, 04:32 AM

I started using a heat gun and a plastic scraper, and noticed quickly how the metal began to distort

. So... the next question is... which solvent? I have some MEK (Methyl Ethyl Ketone) but that stuff is almost like using Plutonium in all the safety precautions you have to use.
Any suggestions on an aluminum safe solvent that will eat through 1 - 2 inches of roof tar (no exaggeration).

obxairstream · 05-15-2008, 04:36 AM

Excella Cm
I don't know whether or not to take your advice considering your number of posts

. At current reading you are at 666. Post another time so I'll feel a little better about heeding "the advice of the beast!"

jacknshell · 05-17-2008, 09:43 AM

hubby says gasoline or diesel fuel will disolve the roofing tar! will leave nasty coat which you will half to clean off after

Excella CM · 05-17-2008, 02:08 PM

Paint thinner is a good solvent or kerosene. Gasoline is too volatile.

The way I see it, Jon, it's OK to have the number of the beast as long as the beast hasn't got yur number!

Foiled Again · 05-17-2008, 02:22 PM

WD-40 works well - but with the amount you have?

How wide an area did the PO cover with this evil mix? I agree the plastic scraper would be the place to start for the bulk of it. And you could use a hair dryer on MEDIUM heat... definitely nothing hotter. Possibly an OLD heating pad on medium too... use a layer of plastic film to prevent it from becoming one with the tar. (Bet the "leak" came from the A/C drain.)

GOOD LUCK you'll need it. Hi Ho Silver.

Paula

n2916s · 05-17-2008, 02:40 PM

I had the very same problem and it came off using old terry towels soaked in mineral spirits. Lots of elbow grease as well.

I just can't imagine what he was thinking....

mike

muddy_hollow · 05-17-2008, 05:33 PM

best product out there for cleaning stuff from aluminum. Available at any local auto body supply shop.

Use it loads. Very pleased with the results.

Doug