Silicone spill

[My Maine Boat]

What would be the best way to clean up a spill of silicone from a teak deck? It dropped onto the deck and then got tracked around a bit. The decks are pretty natural...not stained or varnished, just that nice weathered gray. I've heard about using Dawn detergent and the rough side of a kitchen sponge/scrubber, but I'm not sure and I don't want to make it worse. Any help from voices of experience appreciated.

 

[john61ct]

Silicone itself is only soluble in a few solvents, mostly modified methylsiloxanes. You can buy commercially available silicone solvents at most big box stores, but if you cant find them:

http://www.valco-cp.com/solvent200.htm* less agressive but doesn't dissolve acrylics

https://www.lowes.ca/caulk/dap-silicone-be-gone-90ml-silicone-sealant-remover_g1324148.html


Obviously test on a hidden area first to see discoloration or other side effects.

 

[john61ct]

Or just let it set and peel it off.

 

[Larry M]

I think you may have to just let it wear off. I called a friend in the plating industry. He said you could try 409 or isopropyl alcohol since those are pretty safe for you and the wood.


Edit: Is it caulk or a silicone lubricate?

 

[RT Firefly]

Greetings,
Mr. MMB. Why on earth would you have ANY form of silicone aboard in the first place?

 

[CPseudonym]

The only silicone that belongs anywhere near a boat should be in a bra.

 

[My Maine Boat]

Thanks for the helpful replies.

Larry M., it's caulk, as we were reinstalling the name boards which attach with screws. Would that make a difference as to 409 or isopropyl alcohol?

 

[Northern Spy]

Boatlife makes a product called Release that I've had OK results with. Took quite a bit of reapplication. Bought it for a VW Westfalia van that the PO used silicone sealant on quite messily. Never tried it on unfinished wood.