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Silicone caulk is the most liked material with plumbing and other household or construction projects. It works with different materials that is why it is always preferred by many to use at home. But sometimes silicone caulk does not work in some projects. But what if you want to get rid of the silicone caulk attached to the frame of the shower room? While some may think that removing it is difficult, but once you know how to do it right, it would be a lot easier.
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Silicone caulk is a substance that contains chemicals. The chemical composition of silicone is polymers, the same as siloxanes. The silicone is an oxygenated substance in between siloxane. This chemical backbone chain makes the silicone caulk have an oily and rubber-like texture. But there are commercial products containing chemicals that can help remove silicone caulk off the surface.
Here’s how you can do it.
The site should be clean from any dust and molds. Remove any substance that is in the old silicone caulk so that another chemical material will work. The old silicone caulk should be dew-free. As much as possible it should not be wet during the process. Water may cause non-sticking of the silicone gel.
Read more: How to Clean Silicone Caulk
The product has always been available in hardware. Its chemical ingredients are Dimethyl Glutarate and Dimetyl Adipate. The latter is a component in formulating cosmetic substances like nail polishers. While Dimethyl Glutarate is used as the plasticizer. Known for its commercial products such as coating materials, lubricants as well as anti-freeze substance that works for sealants.
Try to check the reviews of the materials that you will be using. Some products have precautions before use. Be aware of their precautions as they may cause harm to your health. Also, here are check listed products that customers well-liked:
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Sometimes, this removal process is never on the materials used but on how we execute the process. To efficiently remove silicone caulk in a shower door frame, apply the chemical remover over the old silicone caulk. This may take several minutes to hours depending on the time frame given on the instruction or label of the product. Once it is soft enough, use a utility knife. Sometimes, just the caulk remover will work and the old caulk will fall- off. However, at times, a knife will be needed. Remove the soft old caulk using the knife. If the old caulk is thick, you need to use nose pliers for easy removal. Knives will not work with such layers.
There may be some residue left after the removal. To make it clean and free from debris, use a soft brush or sponge. Using liquid bleach can kill mildews on the surface. Mix one-third cup of chemical remover and a gallon of water. Dilute some amount of liquid bleach. After spraying the liquid solution, scrub the surface, and wipe with clean cloth.
Read more: Top 4 Best Shower Caulk To Prevent Mildew Reviews 2021
When some of us do not want to use chemicals in the removal of silicone caulks and hassle to buy silicone removal products in depots, you need not worry. Try these steps instead.
Silicone caulks are plastic in form. In removing, the first process is making it soft. With this comes the help of hair dryers. Use it at its maximum temperature. The heat from the dryer will soften the texture of the old caulks, producing the material to be handier to take off. However, be extra careful when using the hair dryer to avoid possible over-heating.
The tiny blades present in the razors can cut through the old silicone caulks. The slicing effect of razors depends on the type and quality you have. It may take long removal for thick old caulks.
This tool specializes in the removal of caulks. It has a flat edge that bends at an angle. The flat surface is perfect to use in corners which is very suitable for shower door frames.
After removing the caulk, there is always residues left on the surface. In this case, you need to clean it so that it would be smooth to apply the new silicone caulk. Get a piece of cloth and soak it in denatured alcohol. Use it to rub the surface to get rid of caulk residue.
Another option to clean the residue is bleach. It’s not only good for clothes but also for other cleaning processes. The level of work depends on the type of shower door room you have. Make sure not to damage the material while removing the caulk.
Silicone caulks becomes brittle over the passage of years. Changes also happen. Removal of tight sealers like silicone caulks has never been easy on some. Thus, this article is formulated solely for our readers to be informed. Those who do not prefer the use of chemicals can have the option to follow the steps of the latter. Which of the two may work on you, however, always be aware of the instructions of each material to use. Follow their guidelines to prevent hazards. For other inquiries, try to check other articles and blogs related to your concern. Be reminded that precautions are always better than cure.
