How To Remove A Silicone Stain From Concrete

Silicone caulk is a sealant that prevents water from seeping into areas and causing corrosion, such as behind shower walls in bathrooms. Silicone attaches to surfaces quickly, so removing the caulk requires patience and a little elbow grease. Removing silicone from concrete is not difficult as long as you understand the proper procedure.

Step 1

Peel off as much of the silicone from the concrete as you can with your fingers. Silicone is a rubbery material and you may remove a large part of it by simply pulling it off.

Step 2

Soak a rag in rubbing alcohol. Place the rag on the silicone. Allow the rag to remain on the silicone overnight or for three to four hours. The rubbing alcohol absorbs into the silicone, causing it to swell and pull away from the concrete.

Step 3

Remove the rag and then scrape the silicone from the concrete with a sharp utility knife. Keep the utility knife level as you scrape to avoid digging into the concrete and creating nicks. Apply water to the silicone if needed to soften the caulk as you scrape.

Step 4

Soak a scrub brush in mineral spirits. Rub the scrub brush against any leftover silicone on the concrete.

Step 5

Fill a bucket with water and two to three squirts of dish detergent. Wash any leftover silicone residue from the concrete with a sponge. Rinse the concrete with a garden hose.