How to remove silicone sealant


One of the common issues with bathroom or kitchen renovation is how to correctly remove silicone sealant, but with the right tools and knowledge, it can be a smooth process.
How to remove silicone sealant

It's amazing what removing discoloured, stained or untidy silicone can do to the aesthetics of a bathroom. Though it's super versatile and can be used on a variety of surfaces, it won't last forever. When it starts to loosen, crack, or fall off, you'll need to scrape it out carefully and replace it with new silicone.

Whether it needs to be removed due to over application, excessive mould, or just general wear and tear, we know it can be a hassle. Here, we've compiled a step-by-step guide of the best way to remove silicone sealant from your bathroom tiles.

Please note: Before starting the task make sure you are wearing appropriate protective clothing.

Step 1

It's important to first clean the area in which you're going to be working. After removing any personal items out of the way, use some washing up liquid on a sponge to scrub the area without leaving a residue.

Step 2

Using a sharp utility knife or razor, gently cut along the old silicone. Next, run a flat-blade chisel against the tiles so that the silicone pops out and can be peeled away. Remove as much of the old sealant as possible while being careful not to scratch or damage any of the surface you're working on.

Step 3

In most cases, a thin layer of silicone will be left behind. To remove it, use a flexible plastic or metal blade, pushing and pulling it backwards and forwards to scrape out the excess.

Step 4

After removing the silicone, wipe any remnants off using a cloth. To make the job easier, soak the cloth in white spirit in order to break down the last of the silicone, making it less sticky and easier to wipe up.