Why You Need to Caulk Your Shower

Caulking the shower is an essential part of shower maintenance. It helps prevent mold, mildew and water damage. Over time, the old caulk can shrink, crack or peel away. By replacing it, you can extend the life of your shower and keep it looking fresh and clean. However, you do need to select the right type of caulk and apply it correctly.

Tools and Materials

Tools

Caulking Gun
Utility knife
Caulk Remover Tool

Materials

How to Caulk A Shower

The complete process for cleaning and caulking a shower is detailed below.

Before we show you how to caulk a shower, you need to prepare the area. This includes cleaning, disinfecting and drying.

Scrape away the old caulk with the help of a utility knife or caulk remover tool.
Clean the area with a sponge and a bathroom cleaner to get rid of any mold and mildew.
After basic cleaning, wipe down the area with isopropyl alcohol. This will get rid of bacteria and other contaminants, helping the caulk stick better.
Allow the tiles in the shower to dry completely before applying any new caulk. Residual water can lead to mold growth beneath the new caulk.

Caution

Be careful when using the utility knife, as it is sharp and can cause injury. When handling isopropyl alcohol, wear gloves and keep it away from anything potentially flammable.

Painter’s tape works as a guide for where you want to apply the new caulk.

Use the painter’s tape to mark straight borders for the caulk. Start by applying the tape around the gaps between the tiles.
Position the painter’s tape to cover the widest point between the shower and the wall.

Good to Know

Painter’s tape is easy to pull off because of its low-tack adhesive. Press it firmly against the shower wall to seal it and you can easily take it off afterwards.

After the preparation has been done you begin with the caulking.

Cut the tip of the caulk tube at an angle to match the gap's width. Insert it into the caulking gun.
Position the caulking gun at a right angle to the gap.
Squeeze a small bead of caulk out of the gun and slowly move the gun along the edge of the tile.
Put on gloves and apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol to your gloved finger. Then smoothen the bead of caulk into the gap to create a tight seal.
You can also use a caulk smoothing tool to press it down into the gap.

Caution

Wear gloves when smoothing caulk, this will protect your skin and make cleanup easier.

Tips for Caulking A Shower

Avoid using too much caulk because it is easier to add extra caulk than to remove the excess.
If you make a mistake while applying the caulk, quickly wipe it away using a damp cloth and try again before the caulk dries up.
To create a uniform line, keep steady pressure on the caulking gun and move at a consistent speed.

Conclusion

Caulking your shower might seem like a daunting task, but with these steps and tips, you can ensure your shower remains moisture-free and looks great for years to come.

FAQ’S

How long after caulking can you shower?

Most silicone caulks require 24 to 48 hours to cure fully. Be sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions for the exact curing time. It is essential to wait for the caulk to dry completely to ensure the best seal and to prevent water from getting behind the new caulk. This will prevent mold and mildew growth.

How to Caulk a Shower