caulk job clean replacement and cleanup

[tdwyer]

I have a 28 foot cc with a lot of deck hatches. The factory caulk job is brutal and in many places split and leaking into the bolge. Can anyone offer some advice on the easiest way to remove existing caulk and clean the joints? I have tried a couple spots with a utility knife and mineral spirits with little success. Secondly, I will be using lifecaulk as a replacement but if you have other suggestions, I am all ears. Thanks for the help and advice! Tom

[Phil C]

You might try a hair dryer to see if it will soften the caulk a bit and at least make the removal a little easier. I have used a heat gun on caulk on ceramic tile, but it would be too much heat to use on the boat.

PC

[tdwyer]

Thanks Phil. I am hoping for some additional input as well. Regards, Tom

[chops67]

I've been a commercial glazier for 20+ years, I would use straight razor blades, isopropal alcohol and scotch bright pads. Dow Corning 791 silicone is best weatherseal caulk if you can find it. Don't use mineral spirits the are oil based and will give you problems when you recaulk. The alcohol will give you the cleanist substraight.

[tdwyer]

Chops, thank you very much!

[okletsfish]

After doing what chop suggested,tape both sides of the seam before calking and screat the calk for a profesional look.

[richinct]

The tape is a good idea but pull it off right away after you smooth the joint. Don't let the caulk start to set up or you will have a mess, I know this for a fact

[glassman]

If the sealant you are removing is urethane based, you may wan to use Xylene. Check it first to see if it has any effect on Fiberglass.

If you are going to apply a silicone as Chops suggested, Dow makes excelent products. I believe either 790 or 795 are the series you'd want to use.

Taping both top surfaces adjacent to the area to be sealed will provide for less mess.

I would also take some scotchbrite to the sides of the area you are caulking. Caulking adheres better to a non-gloss finish.

The other thing you want to do is to watch your width to depth ratio. Do Not fill the entire joint wit silicone. If the joint width is 1/2" you don't want to caulk any deeper than 3/8". Applying too much caulking may cause it to shear. To fill in any excess space, use a closed cell foam "backer rod".

[okletsfish]

Ya gotta work quick,also pull the tape away from the seam.

[Frank]

You can use Anti-Bond spray. It works well and you can get it at Boaters World.

[tdwyer]

Great stuff. Thanks

[Bryan212]

use goo gone from the hardware store