How best to remove the silicone sealant - an effective means of

Such compounds are widely used in construction.They are used not only for sealing seams, joints, but also for bonding various materials.In the process of restoration or repair of the old layer of sealant is often necessary to remove, since otherwise it is impossible to fully appreciate the true size of the detected defect and effectively eliminate it.

Of all the compounds, under the general title "sealants" silicone are the most "hard-to."This is because at room temperature they quickly solidify, turning into a solid mass.The process of "dismantling" of the old layer sometimes very time-consuming, requires patience, accuracy and time.Much depends on the basics, which will have to work.What

consider

First , silicone sealant is able to penetrate deep into the structure of materials (depending on the degree of porosity), which further complicates the problem.

Secondly , possibility of restoration or partial replacement (strips, slats or the like) on the treated surface.

Third , the thickness of the applied layer of sealant.

Based on this, select the most appropriate and convenient way to remove silicone sealant.

Mechanical

is advisable to use:

• when there is no risk of scratching the material.For example, if the processed surface of the tile, then it damages the outer cover is not exactly avoided;
• if you have the opportunity to restore its integrity without too much difficulty;
• when you remove the sealant from the area, which would then be outside the "zone of visibility" (lined with a suitable material, is enclosed furniture and so on), or in situations where its appearance is not critical (in a remote place, in the corner of the basement);
• if application of chemicals will damage the surface material.

main tool - a knife.Damage to the base material to minimize, the blade must be thin, well-sharpened with a sharp tip (to remove sealant from the small slits).The first cut off large "excrescences" curable composition.Residues can be removed by a hard eraser, a pumice stone or something similar.

Combined

involves the use of a "chemical" and the tool.Consider a few options means to remove the silicone sealant.

White spirit

cloth dampened with this solvent, treated with a small portion.That is only part and not the whole seam as mineral spirits evaporate rather quickly.Wetted sealant after 20 - 30 seconds is soft, and here comes the turn of the knife, which the weight is removed.If it is thick enough layer, the sequence is repeated to complete the weld cleaning.

How to deal with the composition of the groups mentioned above.

Acetone

technology is the same, but we must note that this solvent is more "aggressive", so you need to focus primarily on its compatibility with the base material.For example, if it is plastic, it is better not to try - corrode.

Plus - it is not desirable to use indoors (evaporation!).

: salt

used as an additional tool for the elimination of residual thin layer or spots.From the thin fabric, a wide bandage or gauze swab is done, inside of which - salt.They are pre-soaked in warm water, wipe the problem areas.

Useful tips

• If the base material - ceramic or glass, it can be pre-heated.When the temperature sealant "flow," and it will be easy to clean with a soft cloth or with the same swab.
• are commercially available special tool to remove the sealant.For example, «Silicon-Entferner», «Permaloid» and others.But some of them are quite expensive, and the effectiveness of a particular location - still in question.Therefore, it is advisable to start to try all the same the above (and almost free) ways.As a rule, they are well clear of the composition of the joints.
• before using any recommended tool, you need to check whether it is effective in these conditions.Therefore, you should first try to remove the sealant in a limited space - to the edge, where there will not be too noticeable.And only after that, evaluating efficiency, to start substantive work.
• Surplus "fresh" sealant remaining after sealing cracks, you can remove the cloth without a trace and vinegar.