Silicone caulk is known for its strong adhesion and water-resistant properties, making it a popular choice for kitchen and bath work. However, when it’s time to replace or repair caulk, ensuring thorough removal of old residue is crucial for a successful reseal. Removing every bit of old residue can be a daunting proposition, but WipeOut! Silicone Caulk Dissolver turns an exhausting task into something that can be done over your lunch break. Here we present two methods for using WipeOut: Fast-and-Thorough or Set-and-Forget.
Which method is right for me?
Fast-and-Thorough first uses a razor blade or caulk removal tool to get rid of the bulk silicone caulk, then uses WipeOut to dissolve the remaining residue in one pass (for most caulks, 15 minutes or less). This method will generally give the best results. Use this method if you’re comfortable using a razor blade or if you want to get the most done in the least amount of time.
Set-and-Forget uses an initial application of WipeOut to weaken the bulk silicone and destroy the bond between the caulk and the underlying substrate. This generally takes 90 minutes. Then, you mechanically remove the bulk caulk and apply WipeOut a second time to remove the residue (usually 15 minutes). Set-and-Forget takes longer, but you don’t need to use any elbow grease to remove the caulk. Use this method if the caulk is especially stubborn, you have a porous surface, or if the caulk is in an awkward position.
Fast-And-Thorough
Materials Needed:
- Razor blade or caulk removal tool: For scraping off old caulk.
- WipeOut! Silicone Caulk Dissolver: Helps dissolve stubborn residue.
- Household nitrile gloves: To protect the skin.
- Clean rags or paper towels: To wipe down surfaces.
Step 1: Prepare the Work Area
Before starting, ensure the area is well-ventilated. Open windows or use fans to improve airflow. Gather all necessary materials and wear protective gloves. Ensure that the caulk to be removed is completely dry.
Step 2: Mechanically Remove Old Caulk
Use a mechanical removal tool, such as a razor blade, plastic putty knife, or specialized caulking tool to remove the bulk of the silicone caulk. Work the blade underneath the seam as best as you can and scrape at a shallow angle close to the substrate (without damaging it). There will likely be a significant amount of silicone residue remaining.
Step 3: Dissolve the Residue
Apply WipeOut Silicone Caulk Dissolver directly to the residue and wait 10-15 minutes. WipeOut will be absorbed by the residue and destroy the chemical bonds holding it together, while leaving your surface unharmed. Next, simply wipe away the dissolved residue using wet paper towels or rags. Dispose in a trash can (do not rinse down the drain or flush down the toilet).
Step 4: Repeat (if necessary)
For particularly stubborn residue that remains, apply WipeOut a second time. Most surfaces will tolerate repeated application of WipeOut for 2-12 hours.
Step 5: Clean the Surface
Once all visible residue is removed, clean the surface thoroughly with dish soap and water. This will remove any grime, oils, or contaminants. Wipe down the area with a clean rag or paper towel until the surface is completely clean and dry.
Step 6: Inspect and Prepare for Recaulking
Inspect the cleaned area for any missed spots or leftover residue. Ensure the surface is completely dry before applying new caulk or sealant. Proper surface preparation is key to achieving a durable and long-lasting seal.
Set-and-Forget
Step 1: Prepare the Work Area
Before starting, ensure the area is well-ventilated. Open windows or use fans to improve airflow. Gather all necessary materials and wear protective gloves. Ensure that the caulk to be removed is completely dry.
Step 2: Weaken the Old Caulk
Apply WipeOut! Silicone Caulk Dissolver directly to the caulk to be removed. To weaken the silicone sufficiently, you will need to wait 1-2 hours. There is no need to wait longer than 2 hours per application of WipeOut! After waiting, wipe clean with wet paper towels or rags. Dispose of in a trash can (do not rinse down the drain or flush down the toilet).
Step 3: Mechanically Remove Weakened Caulk
Use a plastic putty knife or your gloved hands to remove the bulk of the weakened silicone caulk. Unlike the Fast-and-Thorough method, you should not need to use a lot of elbow grease to get the caulk free from the surface. Work the blade underneath the seam as best as you can and scrape at a shallow angle close to the substrate (without damaging it). There will likely be some silicone residue remaining.
Step 4: Dissolve the Residue
Apply WipeOut Silicone Caulk Dissolver directly to any remaining residue and wait 10-15 minutes. WipeOut will be absorbed by the residue and destroy the chemical bonds holding it together, while leaving your surface unharmed. Next, simply wipe away the dissolved residue using wet paper towels or rags.
Step 5: Repeat (if necessary)
For particularly stubborn residue that remains, apply WipeOut a third time. Most surfaces will tolerate repeated application of WipeOut! for 2-12 hours.
Step 6: Clean the Surface
Once all visible residue is removed, clean the surface thoroughly with dish soap and water. This will remove any grime, oils, or contaminants. Wipe down the area with a clean rag or paper towel until the surface is completely clean and dry.
Step 7: Inspect and Prepare for Recaulking
Inspect the cleaned area for any missed spots or leftover residue. Ensure the surface is completely dry before applying new caulk or sealant. Proper surface preparation is key to achieving a durable and long-lasting seal.
Tips:
- Patience is Key: Caulk residue that is particularly thick or aged may be more difficult to remove.
- Use Safety Precautions: Wear gloves and work in a well-ventilated area.
- Test First: While WipeOut is compatible with most surfaces, best practice is to test WipeOut on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t damage the surface.
By following these steps, you can effectively remove silicone caulk residue and prepare your surfaces for a professional-looking reseal.