Expert: Eileen Cronk - 5/12/2008

Question
Hello

I have to correct a big mistake.  I caulked doors and baseboard with a silicon based caulking.  It is all rubbery now after it is dry.  Is there any way to take off this silicon bases caulking so that I can recaulk it with regular caulking?

Thank you,  Gabe

Answer
Hi Gabe
Nice to hear from you.
There is not a specific item that will remove silicone caulking.
Its one of the most miserable things to remove.
Just trial and error with various tools or gadgets you may have around.
And Gabe, silicone caulk is supposed to be "all rubbery" after curing.
Why do you feel you made a mistake? Is this an unpaintable caulk?
In Canada we have a product calleed "dap" that we use to fill areas around baseboard etc prior to painting and something like that would have been a better choice of course, but whats done is done.
I fear an attempt to remove this will end in damage to the wood and wall.
I used a silicone caulk on a recent reno of our bathroom and used it in the same areas as you...it just turned out thats all I had at hand. But it painted fine and for darn sure it won't crack.
Regards
Eileen