As time passes by, the excess silicon used by the tile installers starts peeling away and ruins the finish of the tiles, leaving you with the very unwell task of removing or fixing them. So following are the few ways that are used to use the unwell and excess dried silicone that makes the environment dirty.
The following are the steps that should be kept in mind before removing the silicon:-
1- Identify the problematic or damaged area.
2- Remove or clean the tiles.
3- Use a razor to cut through the caulk seam.
4- Hold and pull the silicon sealant.
5- Scrap out leftovers.
6- Scrubbing the tiles to remove residues.
Identifying Problematic Area
Firstly you have to figure out which area of tiles needs more attention. Knowing which area needs more attention will help you figure out how to remove shower accessories and counter-top devices.
Clean the Tiles
If you have cleared the area, now it’s time to clean the tiles using a good tile cleaner that does not damage or leave residue, water can also help in cleaning but specific tile cleaners sometimes make it better.
Pro-tip: Tile cleaning before removal makes the resealing process smooth and easier.
Some DIY cleaners make the cleaning process 100 times better than any commercial cleaner. For example vinegar or soda has acidic properties in them that exfoliate the surface and leave the shiny surface.
Role of A Razor
You can use a razor blade or nylon scrubber if the silicone is loose for removing silicone from tiles. It’s best to use it after the soaking process, wet the area, then let it sit for several minutes. Use the razor blade or scrubber to gently remove the silicone until no more comes off easily with the nylon dish scrubber.
Be gentle while pursuing the process to protect the tiles from damage.
With the intention of removing the silicon from the tile but applying more pressure can cause damage and scratches to the tile. To protect this thing, just slide the tip of a knife and target the bottom of the silicon seam instead of the superficial layer.
Pull the Silicon Sealant
After slicing and exposing the silicon edges, it’s time to pull the silicon off with a forceful pull because silicon can be brittle sometimes and can be cut halfway. Removing or pulling silicon carefully is important because it can remove the corners and join filled silicons.
Scrap Out Leftovers
After peeling and pulling off the silicon pieces, there must be a few; leftovers or pieces of silicon, which you are supposed to scrap to take it off the surface of the tiles.
Put the knife at a slanting angle, and try to dig and remove the leftovers. It is important to scratch and remove the deposited silicon. Use a good sharp tool or knife that helps you scrap the silicon better without ruining the silicon.
Deep Scrubbing to Remove the Leftovers
If you plan to use the tile again or the old, then you have to clean it properly and thoroughly because it can cause problems while fixing it if it’s not properly cleaned before adding any other sealant.
Take an abrasive scouring pad and apply acetone or mineral spirit to clean the surface. When cleaning, gently wipe the surface over the tile or surface and add a bit of pressure when trying to clean or remove a bit of stubborn residue. To aid the process, you can add vinegar or water with bleach to make the process more easy and smooth
Pro-tip: Use a scratch less pad so that it causes no damage to the tiles.
After removing the silicon from the respective area or tiles, the next step should be scrubbing with a stretch-free pad dipped in alcohol, acetone, etc . These pads maintain the tiles and its maintenance appearance while improving appearance. This is how you can clean the tiles and make them silicon-free.
Read More: Why It’s Important to Professionally Clean Your Tile and Grout?