How to Remove Silicone Caulk: (From Shower and Tub)

So, if you are worried about how to remove silicone caulk from shower and tub then this method that I have demonstrated below would be the right thing to take an action. Well, the task can be somewhat daunting.

But, don’t be afraid!

In this article, I will give guidance through the process of removing silicone caulk from shower surroundings, bathtub, tile, fiberglass shower, vinyl flooring, granite, painted walls, kitchen surroundings, ceramic tile, glass, bricks, and.

Well, the best part?

I have extended this article for two different ways:

1. Using the chemical/liquid caulk remover.
2. And the second method is, without it.

The second point is interesting as it gives an alternative method of removing caulk without caulk remover. And instead, you will be using some alternative components that would allow you doing the same thing.

This is not silly, because some specific caulking surface won’t allow you to apply the chemical as it might harm.

So, while you read through the article you will be guided for the alternative trick of what to do when you are not allowed to use the remover. So, let’s head back to our goal.

So, how to remove silicone caulk?

Well, silicone caulk appears to be elastic, giving the impression that it can come off easily. But this is far from the truth that if you are not careful, you may end up damaging the surfaces that were caulked.

So, be aware as not to hit the installed materials in your shower. And after all, when the things have gone properly you can be happy with the level of your satisfaction.

Remember that silicone caulk can normally be removed using a razor blade. But what if it still leaves a layer of residue?

No worries, I will discuss all the facts behind it. Let’s have a look at the components we will need –

Agents of caulk removal:

1. Razor scrapper or, knife.
2. Caulk removal tool.
3. Scrub pad and sponge.
4. Denatured alcohol / mineral spirit.
5. chemical silicone caulk remover.
6. Hair Dryer (Alternative to caulk remover)

Now follow these simple steps below –

Step 1

It is better you ensure your safety first. Cause you will be using some sharp instruments that cost high attention and if not you may get injured.

Step 2

Use a razor to cut through the silicone caulk and scrape it off as much as you can. When doing this, you should be extremely careful so as not to scratch the surfaces, especially for an acrylic bathtub.

Step 3

Apply denatured alcohol or, mineral spirit to the surface and scrub using a scrub pad. If you are working on a delicate surface, it is safe to use a sponge to scrub the area. This way the remover can take action rapidly.

Step 4

Then, use the solvent/caulk remover and wait for it to take action on the silicone caulk. For some chemical, it might take 2 or more hours but be sure by reading the instruction given along.

Now, for the step 3 & 4 – alternatively you can use your Hair Dryer.

Heat up the remaining old caulk for about 30 seconds. You should heat up small portions, like 10 inches at a go. I suggest, you put the lowest dose of heat, which will be effective in removing the caulk.

Step 5

Now you can use the caulk removal tool like the Homax plastic caulk removal tool. This tool has a nice angled tip that would allow you to apply for a whole space of 90-degree angle and get away all the remaining caulk that the razor did not get.

This is a good tool as it will not scratch or dent the surfaces.

Now you have to clean the surface then let it dry before you apply any new layer of caulk. That’s it but not the least. Following the 5 simple steps above you should be able to get rid of the entire silicone caulk residue.

Let have a look at the video instruction below –

But!

Still, you have to know some essential considerations to be a pro in removing or, handing bulk caulk residue. So now, let’s head over to discuss those important considerations –

Essential Considerations

1. If you are working on a painted or lacquered surface, it would be best to avoid using mineral spirits. In such cases, denatured alcohol may be the best solvent to use so as not to damage the surface.
2. If it still leaves a layer of residue? You can use the xylene, acetone remover or, silica sand can also be used with water, with the help of a scrub pad.
3. For porcelain/glazed porcelain tiles the durability of the cleaning process should be-withstand though some tiles could be damaged.
4. One thing to make sure that the scrapped caulk is not going to the drain of your bathtub, that might block the water flow in the exit pipe.
5. Finally, I cannot emphasize enough that when using the knife or, razor blade you should be careful so as not to scratch the surface.

How to clean moldy caulk?

Is Caulk Residue Removal Really Necessary? I know that at the time of purchasing silicone caulk you are assured that it will last for over 20 years. This is actually true and should not be doubted.

However, in due course, the exposure to moisture, frequent movements and mold can be a reason to remove the caulk. In any case, at this stage, the caulking is distorted and this is not effective.

If your caulk is turning, dark, this may be a sign of mold, which is a serious health hazard. So, you might decide to clean the moldy caulk and keep for a few more months. Now, deal with it by following the simple 5 steps below:

1. First, you should Wash the surface with warm water.
2. Then, Add ¾ cup of the Clorox bleach to a gallon of warm water.
3. Wash the surface using the Clorox solution and a sponge.
4. Allow the solution to sit on the surface for about 5 minutes.
5. Rinse the area with warm water and let it dry naturally.

But for re-caulking and repairing the damaged caulk, it has to be removed. As you cannot apply another layer of caulk on old silicone caulk. Cause, leaving some caulk on the surface, this makes it difficult to apply a new layer of caulk as it will not adhere.

Why is Silicone Caulk Hard to Remove?

What will remove silicone caulk?

Well, it is made to adhere to surfaces permanently and is also waterproof. Due to the properties that it has, it is considered to be the perfect caulking product, especially for bathroom and kitchen surroundings.

However, this also makes it more difficult to remove it.

But if you follow the steps we have discussed above, you will be able to remove whatever the type of caulk you want to remove as the latex caulk or, any other type of caulks are comparatively easier to handle.

Hope you can get the answer above as we have discussed the process of using some powerful solvents like – xylene acetone remover or, silica sands. And those play an important role in removing your caulk residue.

How Do You Handle Bulk Caulk Residue?

The process of bulk caulk residue removal is similar to what we have highlighted above. Do not be deceived that there is a chemical agent that you can apply and wash off silicone caulk.

As you have noticed, even in the process above the key role of the mineral spirits is to soften the caulk. If the residue is on a large surface, then you might consider using a knife and a pair of pliers to pull off the caulk residue.

This should get rid of most of the caulk, which you can now scrape off with a razor and follow the processes above.

Thanks and keep checking our latest articles.