How to Remove Caulking from Laminate

Caulking is used to repair surfaces and seal them to prevent future damage. If you have installed laminate in your home--it is frequently used in kitchen counter tops--you may have used caulking around the edges. If the caulk is damaged or becomes moldy, you can remove it without damaging the laminate.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Water
• Sponge
• Scraper
• Razor blade
• Alcohol
• Rags

1. Moisten the caulking that you need to remove. The water will act as a lubricant and make the process easier.

2. Scrape the caulking. Use a small hand-held scraper or a razor blade to remove as much of the caulking as possible. Wear gloves to protect yourself while scraping.

3. Place damp rags on the caulk that remains after you have scraped the bulk of it away. Wait three days for the caulk to loosen, then remove the rags. This works for non-acrylic caulk. For acrylic caulk, the rags should be soaked in alcohol.

4. Wipe away the remaining caulking. The water or alcohol should have loosened the caulk enough so that you can use a sponge to remove it.

Tips & Warnings

• To prevent mold and mildew, use caulking that has mildewcide. This can save you the trouble of replacing it in the future.
• Never use harsh chemicals or cleaners to remove caulk from laminate. These substances will dull the surface of the laminate.

References

• Lowe's
• Ask the Builder