How to remove silicone sealant: tips and tricks

Learning how to remove silicone sealant is an essential DIY skill. Before you put in new tiles or a bath, make sure you know how to remove old sealant. That way you can have a fresh start, with surfaces that look shiny and new.

How to remove silicone sealant in the bathroom

Bathrooms tend to get dirty easily, with the build-up of moisture and soap scum. To get your bathroom looking pristine once more, you might need to remove old silicone sealant first. Here’s how to remove silicone sealant easily:

1. Apply sealant remover. UniBond Silicone Sealant Remover is perfect for the job, as it’s quick and easy to use.
2. Leave for 3 hours.
3. Gently scrape away the silicone sealant. Use a strong plastic tool such as this UniBond Smoother & Remover tool.
4. Clean the area with a dry cloth. If you’re about to apply fresh sealant, clean the area with methylated spirit first.

How to remove sealant residue

After you remove sealant, you may be left with some residue. Luckily, it’s easy to get rid of. This is how to remove sealant residue:

1. Safety first. Wear protective gloves and make sure the area is well-ventilated.
2. Soften the residue. If the residue is from a silicone sealant, try UniBond Silicone Sealant Remover. Alternatively, apply a cloth soaked in white spirit or methylated spirit. If in doubt, test the product on a small area of the residue first, and check for any discolouration.
3. Wait for a few hours.
4. Start scraping. Use a sharp knife or a strong plastic tool such as this UniBond Smoother & Remover tool to remove the bulk of the residue, then try pliers or a scouring pad for the rest. If you’ve still got a bit of residue left, scrape it off with a razor blade.
5. Clean the surface. Use warm water mixed with bleach. Make sure the surface is dry before you apply any new sealant.