How to Remove Caulk From Porcelain

Remove caulk from porcelain carefully to prevent scratching it.

Caulk needs to be replaced if it becomes cracked or moldy. When you remove caulk, you will have to take your time so you do not leave any traces behind. If traces of the caulk remain, it will become difficult to make a seal with new caulk on the porcelain. Removing the caulk from porcelain will require that you cut the caulk carefully so you do not scratch the porcelain surface.

Things You'll Need

• Warm water
• Liquid dish soap
• Washcloths
• Razor blade
• Putty knife
• Rubbing alcohol

Instructions

Water-Based Caulk

1. Clean the caulk area before you begin to remove it. Use warm, soapy water and a washcloth to remove dirt, soap scum and mildew.

2. Soften the caulk with a heat gun. Set the heat gun at less than 300 degrees Fahrenheit.

3. Move the heat gun around the caulk to soften it. Soften the caulk all the way around the fixture, and then carefully remove the caulk with a razor blade.

4. Cut the caulk at both ends where it meets the porcelain fixture and the wall. Gently pry the caulk off with a putty knife. Apply heat in areas that are hard to remove.

5. Remove any lingering caulk with a razor blade. Clean the area with rubbing alcohol to remove any residue.

Silicone Caulk

1. Clean the area around the caulk before you begin to remove it. Wipe the caulk with warm, soapy water and a washcloth to remove soap scum and mildew.

2. Cut along both edges of the caulk to break the seal from the porcelain fixture and the wall. Use a razor blade to make a vertical cut along an area of the caulk so you can pry it away from the porcelain.

3. Pry one of the ends with a putty knife. Once you pry it off, grab the loose end, and pull the caulk off the porcelain. Use the putty knife to loosen the caulk while you pull it. Pull the caulk gently so you can remove as much as possible.

4. Scrape off any remaining silicone caulk with a razor blade. Scrape it gently so you do not scratch the porcelain. Dampen a washcloth with rubbing alcohol to remove any lingering caulk residue.

References

• Online Tips: Caulk Replacement
• Mother Earth News: How to Choose the Best Caulk
• Natural Handyman: How to Caulk