Step 4 · Clean the Countertop Surface

This is the step most people slow down on. Take it one move at a time — there’s no rush, and you can rewind the clip as many times as you need.

A clean surface is essential for a waterproof seal. Use a plastic putty knife or a dedicated caulk remover tool to scrape away all the old silicone residue from the underside of the granite countertop. Be patient and thorough. For stubborn residue, apply denatured alcohol or a specialized adhesive remover with a rag to soften it before scraping again. Once all the gunk is removed, wipe the entire surface clean with a rag and denatured alcohol to ensure it is completely free of dust, oils, and debris. The surface must be perfectly clean and dry for the new silicone to adhere properly.