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Dear Moss Building & Design,
What do you do in the bath when the caulk starts coming off…peel it off and keep going…?
Dear Dulles Mom,
Your best bet, yes, is to peel/cut it off and re-do it. It happens a lot, and it can be easy to fix. First, make sure your bathtub and shower are completely dry (do not use the area for 48 hours before working in it). Once you’re sure it is fully dry, cut out the cracked caulk with a razor knife or putty knife (you can apply a caulk softener two hours before cutting it out to make the job easier).
Before beginning the project, buy caulk that matches your grout. Sometimes matching the grout color can be difficult, but the home improvement stores (Home Depot, Lowe’s) should have a chart to assist you. If you aren’t sure, purchase the closest color and match it once you are home (check to see if you can return or exchange the caulk if it’s incorrect). Also, check and see if you need sanded grout caulk instead of regular caulk. This does make a difference. Don’t forget you will need to use a caulk gun for the application!
Follow the below simple directions for re-caulking your bathtub/shower (or look online for more clarification) or ask at the store.
First, make sure, after the bathtub/shower is dry, to clean the area with a cleanser that contains bleach or rubbing alcohol to ensure against mildew. Load caulk in the caulk gun and cut the tip to a 45-degree angle.
When squeezing the trigger, keep moving the trigger along. Always pull the gun in the opposite direction of which way the gun is pointing. Keep constant pressure on the trigger, and don’t lift the gun until you reach the corner.
Clean the tip with a paper towel between applications.
Push a new bead of caulk around the seams. Release pressure as you reach a corner to avoid pooling.
When finished applying caulk, run a wet finger along the silicone line to smooth it and remove excess caulk. Finally, let the caulk dry according to the directions on the package.
Moss Building & Design is the top home remodeling company in Northern Virginia that has established a reputation for excellence in remodeling additions, kitchens, bathrooms, and basements and providing home services for homeowners. With a strong focus on community, Moss Building and Design encourages a hands-on approach to home improvement with an emphasis on education. Their ‘Girls Night Out’ HandyMOM101 events offer DIY workshops covering projects like tiling, power drills, caulking, and patching drywall.
Connect with them by visiting them online, or get social with them on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Moss Building & Design can also be reached at (703) 961-7707.
