A Guide to Caulking Your Shower


You probably shower at least once a day, probably more. It’s an amazing feeling of freshness and rejuvenation which can get you out of a sleepy stupor, or soothe the muscles after a long day at work. However, due to the constant use and wear and tear, the caulk around your shower wears out and eventually starts cracking. Thankfully in true Krafty Fix DIY style, this is one repair job you can do on your own without the need for hiring a professional. Here is a guide you can follow:

Get the Right Supplies

Before you can start, you need some tools and supplies. These include the caulk, obviously, as well as a caulk gun, caulk remover, oscillating tool, and painter’s tape. Make sure you have the supplies on hand so that you don’t have to stop midway and run to the hardware store.

Select the Right Caulk

When it comes to caulk, your choice can make or break your project. Generally, there are two types of caulk available on the market, i.e. latex and silicone. Latex is easier to use while silicone is more durable. Choose the one you feel best suits your needs, but do make sure the caulk is designed for use in baths, because only then will you get a product that can resist mildew and mould.

Remove the Caulk

This is where the oscillating tool will come into play. Cut out the strips of the caulk which you have to replace. Make sure you remove all of it. If you spot mold, get a commercial cleaner and get it off. Clean the area from where you remove the caulk and let it dry before you move on to the next step.

Use the Gun

Squeezing the tube is easy enough but for more precise results, you should use the caulk gun. Using a gun, you will be able to control the flow of the caulk better. Also, find the indentation point on the tube and cut the tip of the caulk tube just over it.

Designate the Spot

Apply painter’s tape on the spot where you plan to apply the caulk. You can designate the spot and then apply the caulk using the gun. You have to figure out which method works best for you for proper application.

Smooth it Off

When you done applying the bead, remove any excess caulk and smooth it out. Make sure you remove the tape while the caulk is still wet.

Let It Dry

Last, but not the least, you have to allow at least 24 hours for the caulk to dry. Though that means no showering for a day, at least you will not have to caulk your shower again for a year (minimum).

Recent Posts

x