Repairing the Caulk on Tub and Shower

If you notice the caulk between the tiles or around the edges of your tub or shower showing cracks or damage, it should be replaced. These damaged areas are not only breeding grounds for mold and bacteria, but allow moisture to seep between the spaces and cause further damage. Tiles will loosen and the wall beneath begin to degrade.

It is not hard to do this and you don't need to call a handyman to get a nice job providing the caulk used is white. If your grout or caulk is colored, you might actually want to call a Mr. Fixit to be sure it is matched and patched properly. You will need a tube of water based tub and tile caulk (size depends on how much damage you have), a sharp knife and a little patience. The caulk may be purchased at any home hardware store and the clerk should be able to show you the correct product.

The first step is to clean out the damaged caulking. Using your knife scrape or pick out the area that is discolored and damaged. If there is extensive damage between tiles, remove only a couple of inches at a time to prevent the possibility of loosening them. Once the area is cleaned out rinse any powder out of the gaps with a little water or a damp rag.

If you need to replace a large amount of caulking it is a good idea to fill the tub while you are working. A full tub does expand slightly and caulking around it when empty will encourage hairline cracking of the caulk when it has dried and the tub is later filled.

Make a slanted cut across the uncapped 'nose' of the tube of caulk. Keep this fairly small to make it easy to insert the amount you need into the gaps without overfilling. Dampen your finger and use it to smooth the new caulk into place. Make sure it is slightly rounded to the inside and matched the other grout or caulk level and look.

That really is all there is to it except for the cleanup. Some people wait until the caulk has dried and go back with a razor knife to scrape or trim off any excess. Personally, I like to use a damp, lint free cloth and lightly wipe the excess off right then. You will have to be careful not to score the wet caulk, but if you do just add more and smooth with your finger again. Simple!

Now, step back and admire your work. It is surprising how much difference a little bit of new caulking can make!