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How to Remove Silicone Caulk from a Fiberglass Shower Stall

Updated June 2, 2021 By Katie Barton

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how to remove silicone caulk from a fiberglass shower stall

Silicone caulk is exceptionally effective at sealing up cracks and repelling water. But, over time, it can grow mold or turn yellow and look pretty unsightly. It’s at times like these where removing your old caulk and replacing it makes sense.

There’s just one problem: since caulk does its job so well, it can be hard to remove. 

If you’re at your wits-end trying to remove caulk, we’ve rounded up the best methods to try. Here’s how to remove silicone caulk from a fiberglass shower stall.

The Fastest Way to Remove Silicone Caulk from a Fiberglass Shower Stall

Contents

  • 1 The Fastest Way to Remove Silicone Caulk from a Fiberglass Shower Stall
  • 2 3 Methods for Removing Silicone Caulk from Your Shower Stall
    • 2.1 Use a Caulk Scraper + Razor Blade
    • 2.2 Use a Hairdryer and Razor/Scraper
    • 2.3 Use a Chemical Caulk Remover + Scraper
  • 3 Frequently Asked Questions about Caulk Removal
    • 3.1 How do I get rid of the residue left by the old caulk?
    • 3.2 Will rubbing alcohol remove silicone caulk?
    • 3.3 Will WD40 Remove Caulk?
  • 4 Conclusion
    • 4.1 Related Posts:

The fastest way to remove silicone caulk from a fiberglass shower stall is to use a chemical caulk remover to soften the caulk and then remove it with a scraper or razor blade. If you want to avoid using harsh chemicals, you can heat the caulk with a hairdryer and scrape it off.

3 Methods for Removing Silicone Caulk from Your Shower Stall

No matter the method you use, removing the caulk from your shower stall is going to require elbow grease. Here are the three most popular ways to try.

Use a Caulk Scraper + Razor Blade

One of the best methods for removing caulk from a fiberglass shower stall is to cut a piece of the caulk with a razor blade and remove it with a caulk scraper.

Caulk Scrapers usually come with at least one (sometimes two) pointed stainless steel blades. To use the scraper, you’ll need to cut the caulk with your razor blade so that it’s slightly lifted and then run the scraper underneath it. 

You’ll most likely have to do this in several sections.

Use a Hairdryer and Razor/Scraper

If you have caulk that won’t come off with a scraper alone, you can try to soften it with a hairdryer. 

Here’s how to do it:

  • Heat the caulking bead for 30 seconds with a hairdryer.
  • Use your scraper or a razor blade to lift and remove the caulk.
  • Repeat.
Just be careful not to overheat the caulk, or you could melt your fiberglass shower stall. Also, if you opt for a razor rather than a scraper, be cautious not to scratch anything.

Use a Chemical Caulk Remover + Scraper

The most effective method for removing caulk is using a chemical caulk remover. These are sometimes used as a last resort since they do contain hazardous chemicals.

For this method, you’ll need to apply the caulk remover liberally and let it sit for several hours. The longer it sits, the softer the caulk will become.

If you’re not sure which caulk remover to choose, two of the most highly rated products are:

  • Goo Gone Caulk Remover
  • Mostenbocker’s Lift Off Caulk Remover

(Read the instructions on the remover you chose. The caulk remover may need to sit for anywhere between 2 and 24 hours.)

After the caulk remover has set for at least a couple of hours, use your scraper to remove it. Be sure to wear gloves when you do this and make sure the room is well ventilated.

Frequently Asked Questions about Caulk Removal

faq how to remove silicone haulk from fiberglass shower stall

How do I get rid of the residue left by the old caulk?

You can use mineral spirits to remove leftover caulk residue. Simply apply the mineral spirits and scrub with a sponge until you’ve removed the residue. Since mineral spirits softens caulk instead of dissolving it, it may take a bit of elbow grease to get your stall fully clean.

Will rubbing alcohol remove silicone caulk?

You may find rubbing alcohol to be mildly effective in removing silicone caulk. Rubbing alcohol can temporarily soften the caulk, making it easier to remove. So yes, if you don’t have any caulk remover around, rubbing alcohol is worth a try. 

Just be sure to do a spot test to ensure that the alcohol doesn’t negatively affect your shower stall.

Will WD40 Remove Caulk?

Yes, WD40 will remove caulking. However, it’s not our favorite choice for caulk removal since it can negatively affect future applications if not correctly cleaned up.

Conclusion

If you’re wondering how to remove silicone caulk from a fiberglass shower stall, the answer is – it’s simple but not easy. A lot of scraping is required to remove the caulk – especially if it’s old and hardened. However, with some patience, elbow grease, and the right tools, removing caulk from your shower doesn’t have to be a nightmare.

Related Posts:

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    How to Remove Caulk from Tiles
  • Can You Sand Caulk?
    Can You Sand Caulk?
  • How to Fill a Gap Between a Baseboard and Carpet
    How to Fill a Gap Between a Baseboard and Carpet
  • How to Tile Inside Corners
    How to Tile Inside Corners
  • How to Fill a Large Gap Between a Baseboard and Floor
    How to Fill a Large Gap Between a Baseboard and Floor
  • Guide to Sealing Laminate Flooring [Like a Pro!]
    Guide to Sealing Laminate Flooring [Like a Pro!]

Filed Under: How To/Tips

About Katie Barton

Katie Barton lives with her husband and three daughters in an 1800’s style log cabin in southern Ohio. She thinks cleaning is relaxing and is considered the organizing go-to person by her family and friends. She runs the blog Cabin Lane where she shares about cleaning, decluttering, and minimalism.
See full biography here.

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