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Thread: Best tool to remove silicone

  1. #1
    Homesteader RogueDiscus's Avatar
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    Default Best tool to remove silicone

    I've got a 75 I need to re-seal due to a small leak somewhere. It would seem to be simple, but I've been annoyed by how tough it is to remove the existing silicone in the tank using a box knife or exacto(too flimsy). Just wondering what folks have found works best when repairing a tank. If it weren't for it being unsightly, I'm tempted to just seal over the existing silicone.
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    Registered Member White Worm's Avatar
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    Default Re: Best tool to remove silicone

    razor blade all by itself. Take it out of the box cutter. Just did it recently.

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    Homesteader Altum Nut's Avatar
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    Default Re: Best tool to remove silicone

    It could be a pain for many Steve so your not alone...just note silicone will not adhere to silicone period.
    Another factor is to check that you don't cut into the silicone that bonds the glass thickness edge..if that makes sense.
    I would think most tanks are built where side glass sits on bottom pane and where the actual strength bond is. Use alcohol to clean surfaces well before new silicone is applied. You can use painters tape for a clean professional looking edge.
    I have used these with success and available at most box or hardware stores.
    http://www.arichard.com/en/catalog/s...razor-scraper/
    http://www.arichard.com/en/catalog/s...cement-blades/

    ...Ralph
    Last edited by Altum Nut; 08-23-2017 at 04:39 PM.
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  4. #4
    Registered Member White Worm's Avatar
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    Default Re: Best tool to remove silicone

    angled utility blades are sturdier than the straight blades.

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    Homesteader RogueDiscus's Avatar
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    Default Re: Best tool to remove silicone

    Thanks Ralph and Mike.
    So: "silicone will not adhere to silicone period" means I can't just add another layer, right? I think I understand your point about the glass thickness edge. Don't want to make it any worse, even though there's a tiny leak somewhere. I'll have to shop for the right utility knife blade, or use the razor blades. My old hands like a holder.
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    Registered Member two utes's Avatar
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    Default Re: Best tool to remove silicone

    I do property maintenance and often have to repair leaking shower screens. If you extend the blade about an inch past the holder, the flexibility will work to your advantage, as you can then run the blade along both edges of the glass while holding it firm.
    As Ralph pointed out do not try just putting the new silicon over the old.

    Good luck

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    Default Re: Best tool to remove silicone


  8. #8
    Registered Member White Worm's Avatar
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    Default Re: Best tool to remove silicone

    "All" old silicone needs to be removed. New will not stick to old. The glass panes are actually held together with a type of hard cement and the tank is sealed over that with silicone. As long as you are not shoving the razor blade in between the glass pieces, you will be fine.

  9. #9
    Registered Member NJDiscusGuy's Avatar
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    Default Re: Best tool to remove silicone

    I agree with White Worm. I removed an overflow box in one of my tanks. that thing was sealed solid with silicone. I just used a razor blade and little by little removed it. Just be careful not to scratch the glass.

    Rob

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