If you’re thinking about recalking around your windows, you may be wondering if removing the old sealant is a must. After all, you could simply make new joints over the old ones to save time and money.
RIGHT TOOLS FOR RIGHT JOB
Old caulking joints are sometimes hard to remove. They can become very hard after prolonged exposure to the elements and UV rays.
Gather various knives and blades that can be used to cut into the old sealant and remove it from surfaces. In many cases, a putty knife, an electric knife, and a utility knife with a retractable blade.
Finally, if you must work at heights, make sure you have safety equipment handy.
SEPARATE OLD JOINTS FROM SURFACES
Choose the smoothest surface to start peeling off the old caulking. Place the corner of the putty knife blade under the old sealant, keeping it flat, then push the blade along the joint to separate it from the surface. Always hold your knife parallel to the joint line to work most effectively. If the putty knife is not effective for the job, you can use the retractable blade knife or the electric knife. However, use caution with this type of blade, as you could injure yourself or damage surfaces.
REMOVE ALL TRACES OF OLD CAULKING
The sealant usually comes off in strips. If you are lucky, you can simply pull on the partially detached joint to remove it. However, some pieces may remain stuck to surfaces and must be removed manually.
Use long-nosed pliers to grip them securely.
PROPERLY CLEAN THE SURFACE
When the old caulking is completely removed, carefully scrub the area with a stiff-bristle brush and a cleaning product that will not damage the finish of your surfaces.
Once done, wipe with a clean cloth. The area must be completely clean, dry, and free of all grease, dirt, and cleaners.
HOW TO REMOVE NON-SILICONE WINDOW AND DOOR
YOUR CAULK IS POLYURETHANE
When the old caulk is polyurethane, you can expect to work hard to properly remove it. Choosing the right tool to remove the caulk is essential. The best caulk removal trick we know and use, is to work with an electric knife. Despite the assistance this tool provides in removing caulk, it is normally much more time-consuming and difficult to remove polyurethane caulk.
CAULK IS THERMOPLASTIC
When you need to remove window caulking and it is made of thermoplastic. You can easily use pliers to remove the sealant from the surface to which it was applied. However, if you must remove old, dark thermoplastic caulk, such as black or dark brown, it is important to do it on a day that is not too hot.
Thermoplastic caulk is very difficult, and sometimes impossible to remove on hot summer days, and it is even worse when it is dark in color. This type of caulk tends to melt during hot weather and could stain your surfaces. Choose a cool day to remove the thermoplastic caulk from your doors and windows.
YOUR CAULK IS ACRYLIC-BASED
This time, you’re out of luck if you must remove acrylic-based caulk. This is the most difficult caulk to remove, and you will need the right tools: A heat gun and an electric knife. You will also need a lot of patience and time on your hands. Be advised that it is almost impossible to remove acrylic-based caulk without causing some damage to some types of surfaces. For example, if your exterior walls are made of stone, it may be impossible to remove acrylic caulk without damaging the stone. You would then have to apply a larger, wider caulking joint to cover the residue of the old acrylic-based caulk.
CONTACT AQUA SEAL TO REMOVE OLD CAULK
In conclusion, removing old caulk around windows isn’t that difficult! However, don’t underestimate the time needed to do it, especially if you have several windows to do.
If you prefer to leave this job to caulking specialists, you can also ask for help from Aqua seal. Our team travels all over Melbourne to offer professional services at competitive prices. Contact us at www.vicaquaseal.com.au
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