How to Remove Clear Silicone Caulk From Around a Window

Old silicone caulk is a little more resistant and difficult to remove than old latex caulk. Silicone caulk has a rubber-like texture that clings to a surface and leaves a residue once removed. Nevertheless, the technique for removing old silicone caulking is basically the same as removing old latex caulking. It has to be cut and pulled off the window. It is important to get all of the old caulking off and clean the area before applying new caulking and paint.

Things You'll Need

• Utility knife
• Putty knife
• Needle nose pliers
• Razor blade
• Soap
• Bucket
• Abrasive pad

Instructions

1. Cut the old caulk with a utility knife all around the window.

2. Insert a putty knife into one corner and gently push an edge of the caulk upward. Needle nose pliers work on more difficult spots. Grasp the corner edge with your thumb and index finger. Gently pull the old caulk away from the window. Attempt to pull the old caulk off in one strip, but if the piece you are pulling breaks off, use the putty knife when necessary to start a new edge. Repeat the process all the way around the window. The majority of the old caulking should come off, but there will probably be a few stubborn pieces left on the window.

3. Scrape off the last stubborn pieces of caulk with a razor blade.

4. Wash the silicone residue off the window with soap and water. Once you successfully remove the silicone caulk, the window will still feel tacky from the leftover silicone residue. Fill a bucket with soap and water. Clean off the residue with an abrasive sponge. Allow the window to dry before applying new caulk.

References

• Ron Hazleton: Remove And Replace Old Caulk
• Ask The Builder: Caulk Removal