How to Seal Wall Joints Around a Tub or Shower

Step-by-Step Guide

1. 1

   Step 1: Inspect the caulk around the wall joint of your tub or shower.

   Check to see if the caulk has pulled away from the tub or wall, or if it has formed cracks that may allow water to seep through to the wall.
2. 2

   Step 2: Use a putty knife to remove the defective caulk from the tab or wall joint.

   Silicone caulk is soft and rubbery and often comes off in 1 strip.
   
   Latex caulk is harder and often more difficult to remove.
   
   You can locate a caulk-softening agent from a hardware store to help in the caulk-removal process.
   
   Use the agent and the least abrasive tool that you can use to remove the old caulk. , Latex is easiest to work with and clean up, but silicone is more durable.
   
   Caulk may come in a squeeze tube, but for others you may need a caulk gun. , Use a utility knife and a piece of wire or long nail to break the seal at the bottom of the nose piece.
   
   Do not try to squeeze the caulk without piercing the seal because the tube may burst. , Make sure that the caulk is being pressed into the joint and not just sitting on the outside of it. , You may also purchase a caulking tool to shape and smooth the caulk. ,,
3. 3

   Step 3: Purchase either silicone or latex caulk to replace the caulking seals around the tub or shower.

4. 4

   Step 4: Cut off the tip of the caulk tube at a 45-degree angle.

5. 5

   Step 5: Place a bead of caulk along the joint.

6. 6

   Step 6: Use a wet finger to smooth the caulk.

7. 7

   Step 7: Remove excess caulk with a rag or a caulking tool.

8. 8

   Step 8: Allow the caulk to cure as directed by the manufacturer.

Detailed Guide

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