How to Clean Silicone Off of Granite Countertops

How to Use a Hand Grinder to Cut Granite
Written By
Danny Donahue
Danny Donahue
Published: Apr 4, 2011
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
2 minute read

Silicone caulk is used to seal the edges of your countertop so that water will not find its way behind the counter to damage your wall and cabinets. Silicone caulk that gets onto your granite countertops in unwanted places must be removed gently so you do not damage the countertop and make it weak.

Things You Will Need

  • 1-inch plastic putty knife
  • Wet rag
  • Soft, dry rag
  1. Rub your bare hand across the silicone several times to loosen and remove as much of the material as possible. Scrape stubborn spots with your fingernail to remove as much of the silicone from your granite countertop as you can.

  2. Hold a plastic putty knife at a 30-degree angle to the countertop. Push the blade into the silicone to lift it from the granite surface. Continue scraping until the silicone is completely removed.

  3. Wipe the area with a wet rag to remove any silicone residue. Wipe in a circular motion to get the countertop clean. Dry and shine the granite countertop with a soft rag.

The Drip Cap

  • Granite countertops provide an elegant look, and they will last a lifetime with the proper care.
  • Silicone caulk that gets onto your granite countertops in unwanted places must be removed gently so you do not damage the countertop and make it weak.
  • Wipe in a circular motion to get the countertop clean.

Photo Credits

Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images

Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images

Danny Donahue

After learning electronics in the U.S. Navy in the 1980s, Danny Donahue spent a lifetime in the construction industry. He has worked with some of the finest construction talent in the Southeastern United States. Donahue has been a…

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