Silicone Caulking Removal

[jbelia]

I just removed the glass shower doors and metal from from one of my bath/shower combos. The removal went find. The problem I face now is removing the silicone adhesive/caulking that was used to glue the track to the tub and the frame to the shower walls.

The tub is a shower/tub insert (I think its made out of fiberglass or something like that).

Are there any products that can be used to disolve the silicone caulking? I have scraped as much off as I can without damaging the tub and shower surface.

Thanks,
Jeff

[handyhecx]

Hi Jeff,
Your local home improvement center usually carries caulk remover. I would be careful thought since you want to use it on fiberglass.

Good luck,
handyhecx

[kactuskid]

The best way is to use a razor scraper, being really careful not to scratch the surface of the tub. Here's an example of what one looks like, should be able to find one at your local hardware store.

http://www.acehardware.com/product/index.jsp?productId=1272910&cp=1254532.1254896.1305221&parentPage=family

Use some rubbing alcohol to clean up the residue.

[burnin99]

Regarding caulk remover...

Silicone sealant is usually clear, and usually used to seal glass door shower enclosures. There is no such thing as a caulk remover for silicone sealant. I found this info in the event this is silicone sealant that needs to be removed.

"Multiple applications of strong alkaline compounds like sodium or potassium hydroxide can soften silicone caulk. However, these chemical compounds are dangerous and can often burn you or the materials surrounding the caulk. You can try oven cleaners or strong powdered cleansers that you mix with water to a paste consistency. Apply these carefully to the caulk with a cotton swab. These compounds can dull plastic laminate tops, acrylic and fiberglass tub and shower units and many other bath and kitchen materials. You must work slowly and carefully. "

[mkelo]

So Jeff, What did you end up using to get rid of the silicone caulking? I'm in the same issue right now.

Thanks
MAK

quote:Originally posted by jbelia

I just removed the glass shower doors and metal from from one of my bath/shower combos. The removal went find. The problem I face now is removing the silicone adhesive/caulking that was used to glue the track to the tub and the frame to the shower walls.

The tub is a shower/tub insert (I think its made out of fiberglass or something like that).

Are there any products that can be used to disolve the silicone caulking? I have scraped as much off as I can without damaging the tub and shower surface.

Thanks,
Jeff