Caulk removal

Question

How do I remove old caulk from 1960's porcelain bathtub. It is hard as rock and when I tried chipping it off slivers of porcelain came off with it. Any ideas?

Don · Answer

It may not be caulk...could it be a porcelain repair product or some type of glue? May look at acetone, enamel paint thinner or the like? I would stop trying to remove it until diagnosed. Or, find a way to leave it on and cover it with something? Trim, fabric...?
Good luck.

Enjb · Answer

De-Solv-It

Leslieb127 · Answer

Try a caulk removal product which you can find at Home Depot, Lowes, etc. in the caulking aisle. I've used it in the past and it works well.

Workerbee · Answer

I agree it may not be caulk. Have you tried using a heat gun?

Linda Hanson · Answer

try using one of those wonderful little vibrating saws! They are small enough to get between the sink and the wall and they cut flush and vibrate so they aren't as messy or unstable as regular saws? If you don't own one - try renting one or find a friend to borrow one but they are pretty inexpensive and handy as heck - Hubbie uses his constantly for repairs and work because it's so small and fits easily into places where his big hands and a saw won't go.

Cheryl · Answer

Rub over the caulk gently with a pumice stone then wash off with soapy water.

Ginger · Answer

I have a problem similar.  I put calk around my wood framed sliding exterior door to cut down on the drafts in the winter.  It works great!!!!!  However.......I havn't been able to open my door for years. hahahaha

DiannaLynne · Answer

I'd try warming it with a heat gun to see if it softens, then use a razor blade to help remove it.

Carole · Answer

There is a cheap tool that looks like a corner, with blades and the ends are making it V-shaped. You simply hold it gently parallel to the wall-tub and he end will remoce the caulk like one long ribbon. Sometimes you can find it in discount stores on ongoing offers, it will cost around a few dollars. Anybody can remove caulk neatly with this little tool. Else you can use a cutter and do one side running against the wall then the side under running on the top of the tub, then scrap off, but I have tried it does not run smoothly and it works towards you (unpleasant,dangerous) whereas the little tool I describe works AWAY from you. It looks like this:

Mary Testin · Answer

There is a wonderful caulk removing product that you put on like Elmers glue. You can get it at any hardware store. Let it sit to soften the caulk and then use a plastic stick to get under it. The plastic stick will prevent harming your tile--this product works well, but you have to be patient. You may have to do it twice.

Dee · Answer

Something else you might try is fingernail polish remover. It should melt the caulk, that should make it easier to remove. Just don't forget plenty of ventilation to disperse the fumes.

Wanda.ll · Answer

Are you such it is caulk not grout. Back in the 50's I don't think they had caulk? Just an idea especially if it is taking off porcelain.

Michelle Leslie · Answer

Hi there, it's really easy to do using a sharp knife or a caulk removal tool. This video will show you how - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9zdI2YRjgzQ

Caulk removal

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Caulk removal

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