I have researched what to do about the "cutback adhesive" residue left after removing some old VCT. I was wondering if I could (in avoidance of removing the stuff, which just sounds terrible) either install backer board then tile of even padding then carpet? Would one be better than the other or would either of these even work??

Thanks so much for your time and energy! :)

What is the sub floor matrial, plywood or concrete. If ply you can do the Hardiebacker and could have left the VCT. The backer gets glued and screwed, 1/4 " should do it.

Since there is a vast difference between carpet and tiles, I don't understand how you are down to those choices. There is no comparison between the two.

You can use tile where carpet is often found, but should not use carpet where tile are usually used. What type of area is this? Give us all the details of the floor and how it's built.

Jaz

Sorry for not giving more details. It is a concrete sub floor. In a second floor hallway that will not see water or any kind of moisture, or at least it shouldn't. I concluded on tile or carpet because of the backer board and padding providing a buffer/ leveler for the hard cutback adhesive. If you have a better idea for flooring I am open to anything... thanks so much!

If the cut back isn't too rough and without good rigid edges, then you could also do a floating floor of what ever type you want.
You would want to put down a good padding underneath, there are some that are best for concrete floors.

All right, more options is always a great thing. :)

You could also use a cement based underlayment. JE Tomes' Latex Liquid Floor is specified for use over cutback adhesive and would provide a more permanent solution. You could leave it as a wear surface or use whatever floor covering you'd like rather than being restricted to tile or carpet.