How to Re-Caulk a Bathtub

Bathtub Re-Caulking by Oh Everything Handmade7

Few weeks ago, I had to re-caulk our bathtub due to some spots of mold along the caulk line. I believe that our guest bathroom was redone prior to moving in, at least that’s what it looks like to me! Some of the caulking isn’t finished nicely, but that’s my opinion! Here is How to Re-Caulk a Bathtub.

How to Re-Caulk a Bathtub

So, it was time to rip everything out, and do it right.

Bathtub Re-Caulking by Oh Everything Handmade

Ok, I know this looks bad close up. That’s why I had to show you how to do it right so you won’t end up with a caulk like mine.

Step by step:

  • Remove all the old caulk with a utility knife
  • Spray some Lift-Off Caulk/Silicon remover onto the entire area you scraped off the old caulk.
  • Let it soak for few minutes, and scrape it off with the knife again. Clean with a damp rag while wearing gloves.
  • Scrub the area with a scotch pad and some bleach or comet powder.
  • I used a lint-free rag to wipe down the area, and then let it dry out overnight. You can also use a hair-dryer to speed up the process.

Bathtub Re-Caulking by Oh Everything Handmade1

Bathtub Re-Caulking by Oh Everything Handmade2

  • Fill the tub three quarters of the way full of water to allow the tub to sag while the silicone dries for 24 hours. Otherwise, the tub will sag when you get in and pull on the seam causing possible long-term cracking and breaking.
  • Placed the tape about 1/8″ on either side of the seam. It helps to achieve a straight and smooth line, and makes the clean-up faster and easier.

Bathtub Re-Caulking by Oh Everything Handmade3

Bathtub Re-Caulking by Oh Everything Handmade4

  • Apply steady pressure to your tube gun as you move along the tub seam.
  • As soon as the seams are filled, smooth the caulk with a wet fingertip. Or for a tidier job, use the Caulk-Rite tool, a small rubber spatula set in a durable handle. It creates a stunning bead with no mess or edge marks.

Bathtub Re-Caulking by Oh Everything Handmade8

  • Once done, remove the masking tape carefully.
  • Don’t bathe or shower for a minimum of 24 hours to let the caulk cure.

Bathtub Re-Caulking by Oh Everything Handmade5

Bathtub Re-Caulking by Oh Everything Handmade6

Hope you found my little tutorial helpful. Should you have any questions about the steps, please comment below and I’ll get back you.

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6 Comments

  1. Can I do this with the caulk on the glass shower doors? Between the edges of the glass and the metal? It would really make the bathroom look new.?

    1. Mold grows when you have bad calking (in gaps/cracks), so applying your chalking the right way will eliminate most of the mold. Of course, cleaning your tub on a regular basis will also prevent mold from growing.

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