Caulk is known to be one of those finishing touches that, if done right, is practically unnoticeable. But, that doesn’t mean it’s a set it and forget it situation.
If your bathroom caulking is beginning to show signs of wear and tear like peeling or chipping, then it’s time to replace it. We've got you covered with a list of caulking dos and don’ts to get you started.
DO use silicone caulk in the bathroom. It’s waterproof (very important in the high humidity of a bathroom!) and repels mold and mildew.
DON’T apply new caulking over old caulk. New caulk doesn’t adhere to previously applied layers which means you risk moisture seeping into the gaps, so always make sure to remove the existing caulk first. You can do this by spraying on a caulk remover gel or foam, letting it sit, then using a caulk removal tool to scrape it all away.
DO prepare your work area for easy cleanup using painter’s tape. Caulk can get messy for even the most experienced pros, so it’s always a good idea to lay down a line of painters tape on each side of the line you’ll be caulking to ensure the neatest line possible. Run your finger or a caulk application tool over the bead of caulk, then remove the painter’s tape while the caulk is still fresh.
Tip: Making sure the caulk is still fresh is important because if the caulk sets before you remove the tape, you’ll risk pulling away all your hard work.
DON’T apply caulk when a surface is wet or dirty. A surface that isn’t dry and properly cleaned makes it more difficult for the caulk to adhere, which could cause issues like moisture seeping through or peeling soon after it’s applied.
DO cut the caulk tube to create a hole that’s about two-thirds of the width of the joint you’re caulking. This will help reduce the mess and overflow of caulk into the joint.
DON’T use the bathroom until the caulk has fully cured (at least 24 hours). You want to make sure you don’t jeopardize the watertight seal of the caulking in a bathroom by adding any humidity to the air before it’s set.
Now that you know the basics, learn about the different types of caulk and when to use them.
