A mastic sealant comes handy when sealing your windows, waterproofing your bathroom among other uses. However, the sealant can become ineffective due to old age, which is why it has to be changed from time to time. Removing old mastic sealant might seem an easy DIY task, but you can end up damaging the shower, sink or bathtub you are trying to reseal. This is why such work should be left to professional mastic sealant contractors.
GT Sealants can be stubbornly sticky on glass, metal, plastic, fiberglass or wood, which can necessitate the use of an experienced hand to remove. Your valued bathroom finishing is worth every effort to remain looking spotlessly clean as new. Below, we look at how to effectively and safely remove old mastic sealant from different surfaces:
Removing old mastic seal from plastic
It can be challenging to remove old mastic sealant from plastic. However, using a silicone sealant remover together with a remover tool can make the task less demanding. You first need to use a remover tool for scrubbing before you can use the sealant remover. The chemical works by breaking down the sealant to enable you to deal with stubborn bits. Use mild cleaning products on plastics since harsh cleaning compounds can easily damage the latter.
Removing old mastic seal from metal
When removing mastic seal from metal, less care may be required compared to when working on plastic surfaces. You can use silicone remover products since there is less worry over causing damage to the metal. You can also use elbow grease to substitute the use of special products in the removal of old silicone sealant. After scrubbing off the old sealant using a sharp tool, get a nylon scrubber or a bristle brush to get rid of any remaining sealant. You can also use abrasive cleaning chemicals when removing old mastic sealant from metal but have to be careful to avoid causing damage to the surrounding surfaces.
Removing old mastic seal from shower cubicles
Mastic sealant is used in shower cubicles to prevent water from seeping into places it should not. You might need to replace the sealant if it starts to peel off due to improper application or becomes moldy. You should ensure that the material where you are to remove the old mastic sealant is dry, as this will make it easier to pull it away from the surface. You can use a blade or scraper to get rid of the old seal, but you have to exercise caution to avoid damaging the walls or sink. You may need to use cleaning products to help get rid of hard to remove bits. It is essential to ensure that such cleaning solutions are suitable for the surface you are working on, more so when dealing with more than one material, like tile and plastic. A heat gun or hairdryer can also be used to loosen the sealant.
Removing old mastic sealant from surfaces requires you to exercise caution when selecting the cleaning compound to use. Delicate surfaces can be damaged by repeated use of harsh cleaning chemicals. It is vital to seek professional help when removing the old mastic sealant.