How to Remove Caulk From Tile

Caulk is a white substance used to seal the space between the tiles in your bathroom or kitchen. It is instrumental in keeping water from seeping beneath the tiles and causing damage in the walls. Should the caulk start to peel or grow dark with mold, it's time to replace it without delay. Peeling caulk can cause your tiles to become loose and fall out. And breathing mold spores can be hazardous to your health.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Putty knife or utility blade
• 5-in-1 tool

1. Soften the caulk with a caulk remover, according to the manufacturer's directions. You can purchase caulk remover in most hardware stores.

2. Slice through the softened caulk with a sharp utility blade or a putty knife. The caulk should come out fairly easily as you scrape and gouge it with your knife.

3. Use the pick edge a 5-in-1 tool to remove any remaining caulk. You should make sure that all the caulk is removed, otherwise you will have difficulty getting the replacement caulk to adhere to the tiles.

4. Wipe the tiles with water and bleach to clean. The proportions should be 1 part bleach to 2 parts water. Cleaning with this solution will kill off any residual mildew or mold.

Tips & Warnings

• If using a putty knife, choose a "stiff blade" one, rather than a "flexible blade." If removing the caulk leaves scratches in your tile (the caulk itself can scratch), you can remove the scratches with soap, water and a scouring pad.

Resources

• Removing and replacing caulk
• How to remove and replace caulking