When old caulking begins to chip and peel around your tub or shower, your home becomes susceptible to mold and mildew. Additionally, the constant water exposure can ruin floorboards and interior walls. If you notice that your caulking is beginning to deteriorate, it’s time to call a professional or take care of the issue on your own. If you choose the latter of the two, these step-by-step instructions will help make the process simple and easy.
Materials:
Dripless caulking gun- Waterproof caulk (choose a color that matches)
- Masking tape
- Even parts dish soap and water
- 6-in-1 painter’s tool
- Paper towels or clean microfiber cloth
Step-By-Step Directions:
- Using the 6-in-1 painter’s tool, remove the old caulking by scraping along the edge of the bathtub where the caulking needs to be replaced.
- Dip a paper towel in the dish soap mixture to remove any traces of leftover caulking.
- Dry the area using a fresh paper towel or clean cloth.
- To create even lines, use masking tape to line both sides along where the caulking will be placed, leaving a quarter of an inch of space.
- Trim the top of the caulking nozzle at a 45 degree angle. This will leave a hole that’s just big enough to fill the empty space between the bathtub and tile.
- Pierce the opening of the tube with the silver bar located on the caulking gun to ensure no debris is stuck so the caulk can easily flow.
- Hold the caulking gun at a 45-degree angle where the tub and tile meet. Press the handle and move the caulking gun along the edge while remaining steady and keeping the same speed.
- Once you are done with one area, dampen your finger with the dish soap mixture and run it over the fresh caulking to remove any ridges or bubbles that have formed, making sure that the caulk is left clean and smooth.
- Remove the masking tape on either side of the fresh caulking, and repeat step 8.
- Repeat steps 7 to 9, without delay between steps, until all edges have been filled.
- Leave the caulking to set for 24 hours before using the tub or shower.
Note: These instructions are general recommendations. Always read the manufacturer’s instructions on the products you are using before beginning any home improvement project. For best results, perform a deep clean of the bath or shower before beginning.
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