Silicone sealants are indispensable helpers at various stages of finishing work. In some situations, the composition must be diluted to a liquid state so that it can be removed later without any particular difficulties. In such cases, the consumer is faced with the question of how to do this correctly so as not to damage the treated surface. It is worth considering this point in more detail.
Key Features
Silicone sealant has gained popularity in finishing works due to the fact that users have appreciated its quality and technical characteristics. It is indispensable for both professionals and home repairs. First of all, it is noted that the composition is resistant to moisture, due to this it is often used for decoration in kitchens and bathrooms. The sealant adheres well to various types of surfaces, it perfectly closes joints and seams. Good tolerance to temperature changes allows the use of the composition on bases that are operated in the temperature range from -50 to +200 degrees.
The sealant is very elastic, which allows it not to crack after drying, as well as under external mechanical influences. Fungicides in its composition are antiseptic, which makes the material resistant to mold, fungus and microorganisms. With all this, the mixture is very strong and well fixed on the base. All of the above features allow us to state that certain difficulties may arise when removing this composition.
If the sealant has completely hardened, it cannot be removed mechanically, special compounds should be used to soften the material.
Types of solvents
To dissolve the sealant, you need to choose the right product. For this, it is necessary to take into account the composition of the material.
Silicone mixtures can be divided into 3 types:
- Acid based sealants. Acetic acid is used in their production. These compositions have a rather low price, however, their feature is a pungent smell. When choosing these materials, it should be borne in mind that some bases made of metal and marble do not tolerate contact with them.
- Alkaline silicone sealants are manufactured using amines. For the most part, their scope is specific.
- Neutral formulations. They are versatile, such sealants can be used for any kind of finishing work, they are in excellent contact with surfaces of any type.
The modern market offers a huge number of special agents that dissolve silicone sealant. In some cases, folk methods of getting rid of the composition can help.
Popular remedies
When the sealant is on your hands, you need to act as quickly as possible. Most often, ordinary polyethylene is used at home. The bag is applied to the stained area, holds for a few seconds, and then abruptly removed along with the silicone adhered to it. The remains are washed off with plain water and soap.
Traditional methods
In the event that the sealant on the hands has already dried, it will be advisable to use a vinegar solution. Nine percent vinegar should be mixed with water in equal proportions, then wipe the skin with a cotton pad moistened with this solution. The remains are washed off with soap under running water. Hot water with table salt dissolved in it also works well. You need to lower your hands in the bath for 10-15 minutes, after which the soft sealant is easily removed from the skin.
Household solvents are more aggressive, but no less effective. Kerosene, acetone and gasoline do the job well, you can use nail polish remover. Since this method is less gentle, after using the above products, hands should be thoroughly washed with soap, after which it is recommended to use a moisturizer. If the silicone compound gets on your clothes, this is not a very pleasant moment. As a rule, when carrying out finishing work, they put on those things that are not a pity to get dirty, but if for some reason this could not be done, the sealant got on things, then the problem can also be solved. Experts recommend placing stained clothing in the freezer. Once the silicone hardens, which usually takes about half an hour, it can be removed with a knife.
Another option is to use alcohol-containing formulations. Use a brush dipped in alcohol to thoroughly clean the item. The product will dissolve the sealant and the garment should be rinsed. You can also use a vinegar solution. The stained part of the clothing is soaked in it, after which the material is scraped off. Finally, the sealant can be removed by washing.
However, it must be borne in mind that the water must be hot, which can ruin delicate things.
Special means
Silicone glue that has spilled onto a small surface area can be removed with white alcohol. However, in order not to spoil the surface, it is recommended to first apply the substance to the hidden part of the base, so its effect is checked. If a large surface area needs to be cleaned, it is best not to use this solvent. Damage to the paint layer may be a consequence of its exposure. Many organic compounds for dissolving sealant are not recommended for use with tiles. Ceramics from contact with the substance loses its luster. It is strictly forbidden to use white alcohol for low quality ceramic tiles.
Mix 646 can be an alternative to this composition. It acts on the silicone sealant, breaking it into small balls, which can be easily removed with a simple cloth. However, these funds may be useless if the silicone is dry and completely hardened. In this case, the problem will be solved by the use of professional solvents, which are capable of such a task. Such compositions can be both universal and highly targeted. The main thing is to make a choice when buying a product that is necessary in each specific case.
Organic solvents have their own application characteristics. The main difference is the exposure time, which can range from 5 minutes to several hours. It depends on the composition and how much the material has hardened. After softening the silicone, it is removed and the base is rinsed with water. It should be borne in mind that the overwhelming majority of organic solvents contain acids that can damage sensitive materials.
There are many types of such compositions on the construction market. Experts recommend using only proven brands, as well as not overlooking the type of surface in order to avoid possible damage. For more active work of solvents, it is not recommended to use them in rooms with high humidity, as the exposure time may increase. After removing the material, be sure to wipe the surface with a clean damp cloth, you can use soap. This is necessary so that residual particles of the composition do not harm the surface.
Consumers note the excellent qualities of the Penta-840 washwhich perfectly removes silicone sealant from various types of surfaces such as stone, glass, metal, tiles and others. It retains its properties at various temperature extremes. This compound can be used even when the sealant is completely cured. With this composition, it is necessary to wet the fabric, which is then applied to the stained area and covered with polyethylene from above. Due to the fact that evaporation will not occur, the agent will penetrate into the sealant faster and destroy it. The holding time is indicated on the package.
After the procedure, the remaining silicone must be removed, and the treated area must be rinsed with soapy water, wiped thoroughly and dried thoroughly.
Breeding methods
There are several ways to dilute or dilute the sealant, but it is necessary that the material does not lose its basic properties. Experts prohibit the use of toluene as a solvent, because when it comes into contact with silicone, it releases harmful substances, which can provoke poisoning. For these purposes, it is recommended to use a silicone wipe. Together with silicone, it is used in a 1: 6 ratio. The wiper retains the quality of the silicone sealant, while thinning it. You can also use silicone oil and gasoline for lighters, but this method is less preferable than the previous one.
Useful Tips
To work with silicone sealant, certain safety precautions must be followed. First of all, you need to protect your hands from its effects. You can use gloves for this. If they are not there, you need to soap your hands and let them dry. The presence of a soapy film will become a protective barrier and will help prevent dense adhesion of the composition to the skin. When using a solvent on various surfaces, it must be borne in mind that some formulations can damage the base, therefore, they must be selected especially carefully. In this situation, maximum attention should be paid to the instructions for use, which describe possible limitations and subtleties of work.
See below for the use of acetone to dissolve silicone sealant.