I’ve searched for the thread on removing silicone caulk removing. Read all 4 msgs.
My problem: I have some extremely expensive Italian porcelein tile that I picked up free. It had been laid temporarily at a show with silicone – the translucent variety. It is now time to lay it on a real floor, permanently, and I have to get the silicone remnants off.
Suggestions, anyone. Really don’t want to go w/ “Gumout” or any other harsh solvents – afraid it may affect the ability of the thinset to bond to the tile. I accept the fact that nothing will probably ever bond to the areas where the silicone was (is). Fortunately, it does not even remotely cover the entire bottom of the tiles.
Would a heat gun do the job? Or at least weaken the bond to the point the silicone can be pulled off. By heat gun, I mean the variety that will remove paint, etc.
Thanks.
Don
Replies
Heat wont usually work. Silicone is very heat resistant. Soaking in paint thinner for a couple weeks might work and cannot cause any problem that I can think of. I'd use the blow the top of your head off brain frying solvents myself for a much faster result. Still would take a long soak to come loose.
Scrape of as much as you can and then a small wire brush in a dremel to clear the rest. Then install with a full bed of thinset. Should be fine as you say very small coverage of silicon.
Nigel's got it. A little vinegar might help too.
Just for fun - isn't an extremely expensive free tile an oxymoron or something?
Piffin: The only moron was me, because I didn't clean them up immediately when the silicone was still not completely cured. No oxygen involved.
DonThe GlassMasterworks - If it scratches, I etch it!
razor blade as much off as possible then get on with life! You say only a little is there.....you only need 90% contact with the tile bottom for the thinset to hold.......and that's what the manufacturers say...so I'd bet 75 to 80% would do just fine too. If the silicone is set firm...where's it gonna go, anyway? Jeff.......Sometimes on the toll road of life.....a handful of change is good.......