How to Dissolve Silicone Caulk

Remove old caulk before recaulking.

Dried silicone caulk is notoriously difficult to remove -- there are no solvents on the market that can effectively dissolve the substance. Unfortunately, silicone caulking can become unsightly over time due to mildew growth or dirt. Before installing replacement caulk, you must remove the old caulk. Though difficult, the procedure is possible with time, patience and a few common household supplies.

Things You'll Need

• Work gloves
• Spray bottle
• Razor blade
• Cotton swabs
• Oven cleaner or powdered cleanser

Instructions

1. Put on a pair of work gloves to protect your hands while removing caulk.

2. Slowly scrape away as much caulk as you can with a razor blade or a similar scraping tool. Spray your work area with water frequently to lubricate the area and prevent scratching damage.

3. Mix oven cleaner or powdered cleanser with water to make a paste. Carefully apply the paste to the caulk -- and only to the caulk -- with cotton swabs and leave for three days to soften it.

4. Scrape away remaining, softened caulk with your scraping tool.

Tips & Warnings

• Oven cleaners and powdered cleansers can dull plastic laminate, acrylic and fiberglass surfaces.

References

• Ask the Builder: Caulk Removal