FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

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Q: How long does it take for Handyman Formula™ to work?

A: Just remember that there are many variables including temperature, evaporation rates, and product that is being removed.  A one inch piece of 3M™5200 can be removed in as little as two minutes and I removed an air conditioner that was adhered with a one foot+ thick piece of 3M™5200 in 29 nine minutes.  DIY Magazine removed an engine bracket in less than 30 minutes.  We have done large deck jobs by reapplying several times over a weekend.   A big help in speeding up a larger job is the use of a wedge to increase lifting pressure that will help Handyman Formula™ contact the adhesive or silicone rubber.   Handyman Formula™ works best above 65°F and kept in the shade if outdoors to slow down evaporation.

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Q: What is the shelf life of Handyman Formula™?

A: We haven't done any formal testing on the shelf life of Handyman Formula™.  Anecdotally, however, we have seen that product produced in 1999 and 2000 was still effective in 2004.

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Q: What happens if Handyman Formula™ gets on something that I didn’t want it?

A:   Keep a damp rag on hand and don’t let DeBond 2000 Handyman Formula™ run to where you might not want it.  It will not hurt your clear-coat, gel-coat, fiberglass or metal but will remove decals and decal adhesives as well as soft paints, varnish etc.  Just test on an inconspicuous spot with one drop if you are not sure.  Soap and water and/or Isopropyl Alcohol will stop the action.  

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Q: Will Handyman Formula™ harm the finish on a fiberglass shower enclosure?  I want to remove the silicone seam caulk, and renew it.

A: We have used Handyman Formula™ many times on fiberglass with great results.  Handyman Formula™ will not harm or discolor fiberglass and is extremely effective in removing silicone caulk.  After removing the silicone caulk, use soap and water or isopropyl alcohol to stop the action of the HF.  Now your shower enclosure is ready to be recaulked.

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Q: What safety precautions should I use when I apply Handyman Formula™?

A: First, Handyman Formula™ should not be used around heat or flame. Remember that this aerosol can is under pressure.  Do not puncture or incinerate the can even if you believe that it is empty.  Do not store Handyman Formula™ at temperatures above 120°F. Be sure to protect all surrounding areas and objects prior to spraying.  Always use Handyman Formula™ in a well ventilated area.  If it is not possible to use Handyman Formula™ in a well ventilated area, we recommend that you use NIOSH/MSHA approved Chemical/Mechanical type filter system to remove a combination or particles, gas and vapor. Use air line if necessary.  Small amounts of Handyman Formula™ on skin is generally not harmful.  If Handyman Formula™ comes into contact with skin you should wash the affected area with soap and water.  Use rubber gloves to avoid skin contact.  We recommend the use of safty glasses or goggles to protect eyes from contact with Handyman Formula™.  In case of eye contact,  immediately flush with water for at least 15 minutes. If irritation persists, get medical attention.

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Q: Will Handyman Formula™ remove wood flooring glue?

A: We have had wonderful success with flooring in the past. It is also excellent for the clean up of tools when you reapply the new adhesive. Also, when there is a bubble that pops up after application, you just use Handyman Formula to clean it up and then wipe down with isopropyl or denatured alcohol to stop the action. It is important to do this because if you did not stop the action, Handyman Formula™ might continue to migrate into the crack and loosen the floor.

The residue should be removed in a matter of minutes. No more than 5 or 10 minutes should be needed for Handyman Formula™ to work. Direct Sun will cause premature evaporation so try to shade project if outside. Use a putty knife to scrape up the softened adhesive. Wipe down with soap and water and/or wipe down with isopropyl or denatured alcohol and let it dry before reapplying new adhesive. The wait is about 5 minutes on an average.

The Handyman Industrial Strength Formula is also available in one-gallon jugs and comes with a spray bottle.

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