How to Remove Hardened Caulk From Around Tub

Caulk provides a seal between your tub and tub wall, preventing water from seeping behind the wall and causing damage. Most homeowners use a silicone bath caulk to provide the seal around the tub. Replacing the caulk around your tub is usually not a difficult process. However, you might find that the caulk has hardened, making it less pliable. Removing hardened caulk from around a tub requires special removers that soften the caulk. Commercial removers are available at home improvement centers and hardware stores.

Things You'll Need

• Commercial caulk remover
• Rubber gloves
• Utility knife
• Five-in-one tool
• Putty knife
• Tub and tile cleaner

Instructions

1. Apply a commercial caulk remover directly to the caulk according to the directions on the bottle. Commercial caulk removers soften the caulk and make it more pliable.

2. Put on a pair of rubber gloves, protecting your hands from the caulk remover. Score along the edge of the caulk, where it meets the tub and the wall, with a utility knife.

3. Peel the hardened caulk away from the tub crevice with your fingers. Start at one corner and work your way to the next corner.

4. Scrape away any remaining caulk with a painter's five-in-one tool. The tool has a hook end that fits in the crevices and pulls the caulk away. If necessary, use a rigid putty knife to scrape the caulk off the tub and tub wall.

5. Clean the area thoroughly with a tub and tile cleaner and cloth. This removes any soap scum and caulk residue, preparing the surface for a mildew protector and new caulk.

References

• "Popular Mechanics": How to Remove Caulk in Six Easy Steps