4 minutes
Silicone is one of the most commonly used glues at home. Learn how to clean up the unsightly residue that this sealer leaves behind.
When home repair projects are completed, traces of the materials used are often left behind. It is recommended get rid of the traces in order not to damage the aesthetics of the work. That is why we will reveal techniques for removing silicone from glass and other areas.
Also consider that removing excess sealant prevents accidents, especially if there are children who can put it in their mouths. The Faculty of Medicine of the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile warns that the substance contains methanol, a potent central nervous system and optic nerve toxicant.
Why use silicone in home breakdowns?
The practicality of silicone positions it as one of the preferred glues for solving DIY and repair matters at home. Also, this rubber It stands out for its multiple functionality: it seals, pastes and isolates.
The problem occurs when the adhesive reaches unwanted spots or by mishandling you end up staining surfaces, such as glass, wood, fabrics and even the skin. The ideal is to cover the areas and dermis so that they are not affected.
If it is impossible to prevent the leakage of the material, then address the incident without giving the silicone time to dry, since it would be tedious to remove it in this state.
Tricks to remove silicone from glass
Just as you find more than one alternative to clean this glue on clothes, there is no single formula to remove silicone from glass. The methods are various. For safety, it is better to wear gloves, masks, protective glasses and ventilate the work room.
1. With blade
- Slide a blade under the silicone. The idea is to slice the layers as much as you can.
- Pour remover to finish loosening. Respect the rest time indicated by the manufacturer; usually about 5 minutes.
- Scrape with a spatula softened residues.
- Clean with detergent. The results will be best if you dilute the soap in warm water and scrub with a sponge.
2. Warm water and alcohol
Rub a damp cloth over the sealer stain, trying to smooth it out. After a few minutes, run a plastic card or spatula across the glass to remove the residue. Dip the cloth in warm water with rubbing alcohol so the silicone disintegrates quickly.
3. Bleach or chlorine
Try scrubbing up the glue residue with bleach or sodium hypochlorite. If silicone has stuck to window glass, for example, it tends to get mold. Avoid it using this recipe.
4. Solvent
Apply paint thinner and wait for the rubber to come off. You speed up the process by scratching the area with a damp cloth.
Do not forget to use the safety equipment when handling the poison. It is perhaps the simplest method, but handling the substance requires extreme care.
How to remove silicone from hands?
When you use this type of glue without gloves, it is very likely that it will stick from your hands. How to remove it ?:
- Rub immediately to get as much as you can.
- Massage the palms placed inside a plastic bag.
- Spray alcohol in both hands.
- Rinse with soap and water to finish.
How to remove silicone from ceramic?
The bathrooms do not escape repairs and a large part of their pieces are glued with silicone. Removing the excess in the ceramic is necessary to avoid enlarging the problem with the formation of mold. Do it with a razor blade, moistening before.
The putty soon gives way if with your fingers you spread a mixture that you will prepare with flour and water. Wait for the silicone residue to dry and adhere. Pour water to wash away the remains.
Risks of solvents when cleaning silicone
Tricks to get rid of silicone on glass and other surfaces may seem a bit tedious to you. Appealing to solvents is the short way, but involve a level of toxicity that warrants precautions.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend use personal protective equipment if chemical substances are unavoidable; even silicone. Contact with the skin can cause temporary or permanent damage. The effects range from a dry or cracked dermis to discoloration and wounds.
The Institute of Chemistry of the National Autonomous University of Mexico highlights dermatitis among the common health risks, linked to contact with solvents. They add that the skin is susceptible to infections and allergic reactions.
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