Are you having difficulty removing silicone sealant from your granite countertops? If so, then how do you get it off your granite countertops? There are many ways to remove silicone from granite countertops.
The kitchen is the heart of the home. It’s where families spend time together, cook meals, and enjoy their favorite foods. So cleaning the counters is essential to maintaining a beautiful kitchen.
Cleaning granite countertops to remove silicone is no easy task. And there are several ways to remove silicone from granite surfaces. Some of them are general methods, and some are chemical.
This article will discuss removing silicone from granite using everyday household items. Read on to learn five methods to eliminate silicone without damaging the surface.
Silicone From Granite Countertops
Silicone is a polymer of silicon and oxygen atoms bonded together in chains. It can be found in rubber products such as tires, gaskets, caulking, sealants, adhesives, and coatings.
Silicone sealants are also commonly used in kitchen countertops sealers. These sealers help to lay the slabs themselves as an adhesive layer. They also protect against stains and spills.
But what happens when these sealers dry out or crack over time? That’s when the silicone breaks down into smaller pieces. If this occurs, removing the silicone from the granite becomes challenging.
They also tend to leave behind residue when removed. It makes it even harder to remove silicone. And, if you have a problem with silicone getting stuck onto your countertops, you need to find a method that works well for you.
5 Ways To Remove Silicone From Granite Countertops
The best way to remove silicone from granite countertops is by using a shape knife and scraper. This method will work on granite, marble, or soapstone countertops. The process is simple and can be done in just minutes.
Here are the five ways to remove silicone from granite:
1. Use a Sharp Knife
A sharp knife is the best way to get rid of silicone on your granite countertops. Start by scraping the surface using a sharp knife or an old credit card. Then use a clean, sharp scraper to scrape off any remaining residue.
Using a sharp blade when scraping off the silicone would be best. If your knife isn’t sharp enough, it won’t cut through the silicone properly. Also, be careful when using a knife because cutting yourself is easy.
Also, use a hand and wipe to clean up any excess silicone that may have been left behind. If you’re not comfortable using a knife, you can try using a cleaning solution.
2. Use a Dishwashing Liquid
Dishwashing liquids are made up of ingredients like soap and detergent. These chemicals can help loosen the bond between the silicone and the granite surface. You can use dishwashing liquid directly on the countertops, and the dishwashing liquid with warm water.
Apply the mixture to the area where you see the silicone residue. Then scrap the area with a sharp knife or scraper. Finally, rinse the area thoroughly with hot water. Repeat this process if necessary.
3. Apply Heat
You can also apply heat to the silicone-coated area. It will cause the silicone to soften and release from the surface. First, blow hot air over the countertops, and then use a sharp knife to scratch the silicone.
4. Use Vinegar
Vinegar contains acetic acid, which breaks down the silicone bonds. Pour vinegar onto the silicone and let it sit for several minutes. It may take several applications to remove the silicone altogether.
Generally, vinegar will not harm your countertops. However, it does have a strong odor, and you must make sure you don’t leave it sitting around for too long.
5. Use a Cleaning Product
You can use products like silicone sealant solvent, WD40, Acetone, or alcohol to remove silicone. Please read the labels carefully so you don’t accidentally purchase something harmful.
Silicone sealant solvent:
- Soak the silicone-coated areas with the solution.
- Let the solution sit for a few hours.
- Scrape away any remaining silicone with a sharp razor blade.
WD40: Dip a rag into the solution and let the silicone be soft enough to scrape off with a razor blade.
Acetone: Pour acetone onto the silicone. Let it sit overnight. Scrape away any residual silicone the next day.
Alcohol: Finally, use alcohol. Again, dip a rag into the solution. Let it sit overnight, then scrape away any remaining silicone the following morning.
Remove Silicone from Granite: Dos and Don’ts
When removing silicone from granite, it would be best to consider a few things. First, it would help if you never used anything abrasive as it could damage the finish.
Now take a look at these tips:
1. Don’t Leave Anything Sitting For a Long Time
You should not leave anything on your countertops for a long time. Otherwise, something like epoxy adhesive could harden again and become harder to remove.
To wipe away silicone, you need to make it soft. Once it dries out, it becomes difficult to get rid of.
2. Do Get Out that Sharp Razor
If you want to remove the silicone, you must do it properly. A dull razor blade won’t cut through the silicone. Always use a sharp razor blade when scraping off the silicone.
Overusing a razor blade can damage the surface of your countertops. In addition, you might end up removing more than just the silicone.
3. Don’t Scrub with Abrasive Materials
Abrasives such as steel wool, powders meant for scouring, nylon scrubbing pads, and sandpaper can damage your granite surface. If you try to scrub away the silicone using these materials, you might damage the surface of your countertops.
4. Do Use Acetone
Acetone is one of the best solutions to remove silicone. You can buy it at home improvement stores.
Use a soft cloth and soak it in acetone. Gently rub the silicone until it comes off. You might use more than one application if necessary.
It’s important to note that acetone is flammable. So be careful while using it. Please keep it in a safe place and wear protective clothing.
5. Don’t Forget About Your Hands
When cleaning your countertops, always remember about your hands. Applying the acetone makes it easy to get some on your skin. The same goes for rubbing alcohol.
Always take care of your hands by wearing gloves. This way, you’ll avoid getting any chemicals on your skin.
6. Don’t Use the Wrong Cleaner
Some cleaners are designed to work well on certain surfaces. They may contain solvents that can dissolve silicone. They might not be suitable for granite surfaces.
Here is a list of cleaners that can damage your granite countertops:
- Cream or powder cleansers
- Acid-based cleaner
- Tile, bathtub, toilet, and grout cleaners
- Mildew/mold remover and disinfectants
- Furniture polish etc.
Hence, be sure to check the label before purchasing a cleaner.
FAQs
How do I hide the granite joints?
Granite has a natural grain called jointing, making it look like it was cut from one piece of stone. Use a grinder or sandpaper to smooth them out to hide these joints. Then apply a sealer such as silicone to protect the surface.
Also, “book matching” is an option. It involves covering the joints with granite slabs so their surfaces match each other. Granite countertops always need to be sealed.
Does vinegar damage granite countertops?
Vinegar is acidic and can cause damage to granite countertops. It will also etch the stone’s surface if left for a long time.
Though vinegar can remove silicone, it shouldn’t be left on the surface for too long. Vinegar has an unpleasant smell and can ruin the appearance of the countertops.
Does alcohol dissolve silicones?
Alcohol softens/dissolves silicone caulk from the countertops. It also removes wax. So, if you have used many oil-based products, you must clean them. Then apply an alcohol solution. Let it sit overnight. Wash it off the next day.
Isopropyl alcohol also works excellent for removing silicone. However, it has a strong smell. So, you might want to consider another option.
Does acetone remove silicones?
Yes, acetone removes silicone from the countertops. Acetone is an organic solvent, and it dissolves silicone. It will also remove wax and grease from granite. It is commonly used in nail polish remover. It works great for removing silicone from the countertops and is non-toxic.