DIY Shower Caulking

Properly caulking your shower will keep water from seeping into the joints between the tile base and the wall.

Inspect the caulk in your shower at least once a month. If any caulk is missing or if it has cracked, mildewed or separated from the surface, remove it and apply new caulk. Damaged or missing caulk will allow water to seep into the joints between the tile base and the wall, leading to mildew problems and structural damage within the wall. Caulk comes in a variety of colors, so you can coordinate it with your tiles or grout. If you are only recaulking one shower, consider purchasing a small tube of caulk that does not require a caulking gun. These squeezable tubes are easier to use, especially for beginners.

Things You'll Need

• Putty knife or utility knife
• Rubbing alcohol
• Anti-mildew product
• Caulk
• Caulking gun

Instructions

1. Scrape out the old caulk carefully using a putty knife or utility knife.

2. Clean the joints thoroughly with rubbing alcohol and allow them to dry. You must remove all caulk residue or the new caulk will not adhere properly. If a joint has mildew, clean it with an anti-mildew product.

3. Insert the tube of caulk into the caulking gun. Cut the tip off of the tube of caulk at a 45-degree angle.

4. Hold the tube at a 45-degree angle to the surface, and push the end of the applicator into the joint while squeezing the caulking gun trigger to release a thin bead of caulk. Squeeze at a steady rate as you move the applicator tip along the joint to avoid air bubbles.

5. Twist the tube at the end of the joint and pull it away from the surface to break the caulk bead.

6. Moisten your fingertip with cold water and run it across the joint to compress and smooth the caulk.

7. Allow the caulk to harden for at least 12 hours. Carefully scrape away any excess caulk with the utility knife or putty knife.

Tips & Warnings

• If possible, do not use the shower for several days before removing and replacing the caulk so the joints will be completely dry when you begin.

• The caulk will start to become sticky soon after application, so smooth each newly caulked joint with a wet finger before caulking the next joint.

References

• "Black & Decker: The Complete Photo Guide to Home Repair;" Bryan Trandem; 1999
• Better Homes and Gardens: Recaulking Your Shower
• HGTV.com: How to Reapply Interior Caulk

Resources

• Old House Journal: The Short Course on Caulk