Last Updated on June 11, 2020 by Ellen Christian
Have you ever wondered how to recaulk your bathtub? We had our bathroom remodeled last year extensively including ripping out the floor all the way to the basement level. At that time, the bathtub was caulked when it was reinstalled. But, for whatever reason, it needs to be caulked again. The caulking that was used is drying out and separating from the surround above it.
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How to Recaulk Your Bathtub
You caulk your bathtub to keep the water from damaging the wall and floor around the tub. You typically caulk between the tub and the bath surround. It’s not a difficult job so it’s something I would rather handle myself rather than pay someone else.
Remove the Old Caulk
How much time this takes will depend on how long the old caulk has been on your tub. You may simply be able to use a putty knife to peel up the end and then pull the old caulk off in a bead. Or you may need to use denatured alcohol or caulk softener if it’s been on a long time. Since ours is fairly recent, getting it up wasn’t that much of a challenge.
Wash Thoroughly
Wash the area where the caulk was well. Use a cleaning agent that will kill mold and mildew to be sure that the area is completely clean. You can use a bleach and water solution. Or, if you prefer, try a vinegar, tea tree oil, and water solution. Rinse the area well and allow it to dry completely.
Apply New Caulk
Once the area is completely dry, you will need to apply DAP Kwik Seal Ultra Sealant. Trim the edge of the caulk tube and use a long nail to puncture the foil seal. Use the caulking gun to activate the caulk, following the instructions on the tube of caulk. Move the caulk gun slowly squeezing a bead of caulk out as you move. Work slowly to ensure even distribution. You may need to go over areas more than once. A caulk tool kit will be very handy.
Clean and Smooth
Using your wet fingertip, smooth the bead of caulk carefully and remove any excess. This will force the caulk in between the lines of the tub and the surround which will help seal the area. Allow it to dry completely according to the directions on the caulk tube. Do not use the shower until it is completely dry.
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There are a lot of simple DIY upkeep projects that need to be done around the house. Now that you know how to recaulk your bathtub, will you try?
Here are a few Homeowner Touch-up Tips:
Repair and Refresh Walls
Use NEW ALEX Flex Spackling and ALEX Plus Spackling to fill holes and cracks on surfaces before painting. The result is durable, easy to sand and the repaired areas won’t sink or shrink.
Refresh Kitchen and Bath Hardware
Small features like hardware can visually update a room. Keep in mind brushed metals are trendy and widely appealing when selecting options.
Paint the Front Door
Simply clean the current door, protect edges with painter’s tape, and add a few fresh coats of exterior paint.
Keep Drafts at Bay
Checking for gaps around windows and doors is a smart move whether you’re just moving in or have been in your home for years. EXTREME STRETCH and DYNAFLEX 230 help keep drafts at bay.
One of my readers will win a Home Touchup Kit containing:
Painting and spackling:
- NEW ALEX Flex Spackling and ALEX Plus Spackling to fill holes and smooth out surfaces
- ALEX Flex Caulk and ALEX Plus caulk for a professional finish on trim and molding
- Plastic Wood and Plastic Wood-X to fill and repair wood
- Plus a painting kit to help finish the job with a paint tray, rollers, and brushes.
Seal gaps around windows and doors:
- EXTREME STRETCH and DYNAFLEX 230
- Plus a caulk removal tool and caulk gun
Bathroom and kitchen:
- DAP Kwik Seal Ultra Sealant to keep moisture out
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Ellen is a busy mom of a 24-year-old son and 29-year-old daughter. She owns six blogs and is addicted to social media. She believes that it doesn’t have to be difficult to lead a healthy life. She shares simple healthy living tips to show busy women how to lead fulfilling lives. If you’d like to work together, email info@confessionsofanover-workedmom.com to chat.
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