Three Simple & Easy Ways Of Removing Old Caulk From A Tub
If the users want to apply the new caulk to the tub, then the old caulk needs to be removed before applying the new one. The old caulk needs to be removed so that the new one can be applied. In order to remove the old caulk from a tub, the users can use one among the three ways mentioned below:
Way 1: Chemical Method
- The first step is to apply chemical caulk remover, squeeze the chemical remover right onto the old caulk bead so that it must be covered completely.
- Leave the caulk to soften. Let the caulk remover to sit on the caulk as directed by the instructions of the manufacturer. It is advisable for maximum effectiveness to allow the product to set overnight.
- After the above steps are done then scrape away the caulk. Take a plastic putty knife or any other tools for scraping away all the old caulk. If it is possible, then try to peel it off in the form of strips while scraping. Inspect the entire area thoroughly, and remove any of the remaining caulk residues with the help of the tool.
- Now clean the entire surface thoroughly with the help of a clean cloth moistened with the rubbing alcohol. Leave the surface to dry completely before applying new caulk.
Way 2: Make Homemade Softening Solutions
If the user doesn't have a commercial liquid caulk remover available, that time make one using items available at home.
- For the water-based acrylic caulks as well as the caulks containing the polyvinyl acetate resins, soak old towels using the isopropyl rubbing alcohol and then set them directly over the caulk. The alcohol will help to make the molecules that are in the caulk swell so that it will get soft and easier to remove.
- In case of the silicone caulk, which is harder to remove, mix a powdered cleanser with the warm water to form a thick paste-like solution. Then apply the paste all over the caulk with a cotton swab. It is a good option to wear protective gloves. Apply paste slowly and carefully and not to apply on surrounding surfaces, as it can easily damage the acrylic, fiberglass as well as other bathroom materials. Leave the paste to rest on the caulk as long as needed, testing it after every few hours to determine the softness level.
- Another homemade method that can help to clean the old stubborn caulk is heating. A hairdryer is useful to do the trick. It is important to be careful while working around the materials which can be damaged by the heat, like plastic. Even a basic type of hairdryer can easily melt or even damage certain materials. Set the lowest heat setting for getting results that are required. The heat will help to soften the caulk and also makes it easier to scrape away.
Way 3: Using A Razor Scraper
The tool that works very well is an old-fashioned razor scraper. The simple trick here is to use a sharp blade and also make sure that the blade edge is flat right on the surface to prevent any kind of scratching. A razor is an ideal tool for getting behind thin old caulk. In general, it is good to scrape right behind both the edges of the caulk bead for separating it from the surface, after that try to peel it off in the long strips. In order to prevent the scratching, be very careful in not letting the corners of the blade to contact the surface.