Caulk can be found in almost every bathroom. It’s in the seams and seals, preventing water from leaking into the drywall and wood that’s behind the sinks, bathtubs, showers, and toilets. Over time, the waterproof seal that caulk provides begins to break down. When this happens, it’s necessary to remove and replace it with new product. You may also find yourself in a situation where you have to remove caulk in order to install a new tub or toilet. No matter the reason, it’s important to remove the caulk properly. Otherwise, you could end up damaging your flooring or bathroom pieces.
Use a Caulk Remover
While you can scrape away caulk, it takes a while. If you don’t have the time to chip away at it, consider using a caulk remover. This chemical compound is a simple and easy way to loosen the caulk, making it easy to remove. Typically you can find caulk remover at any hardware store. Once purchased, simply apply the caulk remover all over the old caulk. Depending on the manufacturer’s instructions, you may need to let the product set overnight before proceeding.
Utilizing a Putty Knife
After the caulk remover has properly set, it should be fairly easy to remove the caulk. Using either a putty knife or a caulk-removing tool, scrape away the caulk. If the product has set up completely, the caulk will begin to come away in chunks. You may even be able to peel large strips of it away. Be sure to get all of the caulk out of the seams using the knife or caulk-removing tool.
Cleaning the Seams
Once the caulk has been removed, there’s one more step to complete before applying new product. Saturate an old rag with rubbing alcohol. Then, use the rag to completely clean the seams where the old caulk was. This will remove any remaining debris and particles, leaving you with a clean surface to apply new caulk.
Applying New Caulk
Completely clearing out the old caulk is absolutely vital. If you choose to caulk over old caulk or neglect to remove it completely, your new product won’t adhere nearly as well. Eventually you’ll end up with leaks or peeling caulk. Once the site is completely free of old caulk, you’re ready to begin applying the new caulk. Make sure that the caulk you’re using is specifically designed for the area that you’re applying it. Some caulks are best used on specific surfaces. By utilizing the right caulk, you’ll create an effective waterproof seal.
Whether you’re removing caulk for a plumbing project or simply because it’s starting to leak, having patience is key to the removal process. Without patience, you could end up chipping tile, your tub surround, or your dry wall. Take the time needed to allow your caulk remover to set up and be gentle when using the caulk removal tool. With these tips and a little bit of patience, the seams of your bathroom will be stripped of that old caulk and ready for new product in no time.
