Recaulking around kitchen sink
by
Ginny B
+4
Do I need to remove all of the old shrunken up caulk above my 4" backsplash before I recaulk. Guess I also need to replace below the backsplash where the counter meets the backsplash. Obviously it is formica.
7 answers
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If you want a really clean, minimalistic line of caulk, yes. It prevents build up. If you dont - you have to over compensate to saturate all the crevices and gaps
Designs by BSB
on Feb 28, 2013
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Thank you. That does make sense. Just never did it before but I'm going to give it a try.
Ginny B
on Feb 28, 2013
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Single edge razors work really well. Wipe down the areas to be caulked with goof-off, so as to prep it for new caulk. Use a caulk that is 100% silcone, as they hold up better around water use. If this is you first try, you might want to with a clear, just in case things get a little messy.
Houseworks Unlimited, Inc.
on Mar 01, 2013
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Even more great info. So glad I asked. Thanks so much. Should I remove the caulk from one end of the counter to the other or just around the sink area?
Ginny B
on Mar 01, 2013
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I would, but if you only get the 'wet area', that's the most important.
Houseworks Unlimited, Inc.
on Mar 01, 2013
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They make V shaped trowels and cutting tools to remove caulk from tub surrounds and back splashes such as yours. A single edge razor blade does work, but you can cut yourself really easy should the blade slip or crack. A stiff putty 1" knife sharpened on a file to a razor edge works really well. You need to remove any caulk where your replacing with new. However I would do the entire counter so everything blends. When placing the new caulk bead down, Have a small bowl of water handy and several paper towels handy. Be sure to clean the corner well. Rubbing alcohol works well. Wet a rag and clean. If it is not clean the new sealant will come off the Laminate top in a few short months. Place a line of blue painters caulk on the back splash and on the counter so about a 1/4 inch of back splash is still visible on both the back and counter. Then fill the space with caulk. Once the caulk is in place using your finger, wet it and run it down the corner to smooth and shape the caulk into the corner. Keep your finger wet and wipe any excess caulk off your finger with towel. Once it is all smoothed out pull the tape off carefully and you will have a professional looking seal. Once the tape is removed, you then wet your finger and lightly rub the caulk one more time to remove the tiny raised edge from the tape removal. Do this only once, do not apply to much pressure, but keep your finger wet and it will glide over the surface of the caulk and give you a smooth final finish.
Woodbridge Environmental Tiptophouse.com
on Mar 03, 2013
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Thanks for all the details. I have already picked up the tool at Home Depot.
Ginny B
on Mar 03, 2013
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