question on cleaning old sealant before applying new

jbres wrote:
Just read the surface prep and it doesn't exactly say what to use.

I don't know what your original sealant was/is but I'm guessing mineral spirits won't effect it. Clean the existing sealant with mineral spirits and because you want to be detailed, clean the area again with soap and water. Allow to dry and apply the Proflex. In colder weather, I've found that these Geocel products apply easier when the cartridge is warm.

Just read the surface prep and it doesn't exactly say what to use.

Geocel ProflexRV Technical Data Surface preparation is covered.

wow. lots of different opinions and suggestions. Wish there was just one "right" answer. lol

I think the cleanup they are refering to, means hands, tools, etc, after using proflex.

I use a little mineral spirits on my finger, to help spread the proflex without sticking.

I would not remove the prior sealant on that new of RV, just use alcohol, or glass cleaner with ammonia to clean it first.

Jerry

Would not use mineral spirits due to film/residue being left behind. I use Acetone, it evaporates fast, removing any moisture present, and leaves no film or residue behind.

actually just read the label on the Proflex RV sealant that I am using, and it says to use mineral spirits for any clean up needed. I guess I better just stick with the Mineral Spirits

my TT is a 2014 trailer so this is not that old of sealant. It is NOT existing standard silicone caulk from factory, appears to be Proflex brand. I simply need to touch up two small spots on my sidewall of trailer, where existing sealant flexed, and has a very small gap.
I am trying to be Proactive and stay on top of my trailer so I don't have water problems in future.
It doesn't appear necessary to remove all the old sealant, as it isn't in to bad of shape at all. Just slightly flexed during travel, which split a small gap.
I found some Denatured alcohol that I had, so ill try that.

I picked up a bottle of something called Contractors Solvent from the specialty plastics shop in town. Spray the stuff on and the silicone or sealant was coming off by itself. Get a coupe of silicone removal tools as they do wear out. And a heat gun is great for the stubborn stuff. I know, I was on my 5th roof all weekend dealing with layers of old sealant.

If the old caulk is silicon based vinegar is good for removing residue after physically removing the old caulk. I am not familiar with the Proflex brand; however, be sure to check on the tube of your new caulk for any solvents that SHOULD NOT be used before application.