Mold on caulking - how to remove?
#1
12-27-16, 11:31 AM
Mold on caulking - how to remove?
I have a Ceasarstone countertop with backsplash in the bathroom. There's caulking where the backsplash meets the counter. Part of the caulking has developed black areas - I assume it's mold.
Any suggestions for eliminating the mold would be appreciated. I assume products like Tilex won't fully get rid of it. I'd like to avoid having to have the area recaulked if possible as it never looks as good after that's done.
Thanks for trying to help!!
CityGal
Any suggestions for eliminating the mold would be appreciated. I assume products like Tilex won't fully get rid of it. I'd like to avoid having to have the area recaulked if possible as it never looks as good after that's done.
Thanks for trying to help!!
CityGal
#2
12-27-16, 11:48 AM
Group Moderator
You will need to remove the caulking and recaulk it. Use a caulk that is mold resistant for kitchen and bath. You could paint over the existing caulk but that will not last long because mold likes the type of caulk that was used... so unless you remove it, it will keep coming back.
#3
12-27-16, 02:23 PM
I agree, the wrong caulk was used and it should be removed and redone with the correct caulk.
If the mold/mildew is removed and you paint the caulk - that will generally stop the mold from returning but you have to paint every bit of the caulk [no slivers left unpainted] and a paint with mildewcide in it will look better longer than regular latex paint. Painting just the caulk is more trouble than it's worth!
If the mold/mildew is removed and you paint the caulk - that will generally stop the mold from returning but you have to paint every bit of the caulk [no slivers left unpainted] and a paint with mildewcide in it will look better longer than regular latex paint. Painting just the caulk is more trouble than it's worth!
#4
12-27-16, 03:08 PM
Thanks for the replies. Guess it should be recaulked. 
This area gets wet alot as in the sink splash zone. If the caulk is painted, won't that ruin the paint?
CityGal
This area gets wet alot as in the sink splash zone. If the caulk is painted, won't that ruin the paint?
CityGal
#5
12-27-16, 03:11 PM
It can, latex enamel is more washable than caulking is but IMO it's too much trouble to paint it correctly. The old caulk shouldn't be that difficult to remove. Use a razor, soapy water for a lubricant and some care.
#6
12-27-16, 07:26 PM
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I'd like to avoid having to have the area recaulked if possible as it never looks as good after that's done.
I agree the wrong caulk was probably used, especially if it's color matched to the stone.
Usually a stone splash is caulked to the counter with Translucent White Silicone (tranny white).
The bead should be very small and takes on the color around it somewhat.
100% silicone tranny white should last for 10 years or more without mold or peeling if applied properly. If you paid to have the counter installed, it might be under warranty.
#7
12-30-16, 06:02 AM
I appreciate all the suggestions! Sounds like the tranny white is my best bet. The counter is white so it should be fine colorwise.
I'm going to get a handyman to do it as don't trust myself to do it, never having done this before.
This is such a useful forum!!
I'm going to get a handyman to do it as don't trust myself to do it, never having done this before.
This is such a useful forum!!
