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Reseal or caulk a bathtub

The bead of sealant where the tub meets the wall keeps water out of the wall. When it cracks or lifts, cut it out and run a fresh one.

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Last reviewed against 1 official source.

Who this is for

Anyone comfortable with a careful, slightly fiddly job. Plan for the tub to be out of use while the sealant cures.

How often should I recaulk my bathtub?

GE Sealants, a sealant maker, says to check the seal once a year for cracks or lifting. Replace it when it is cracked, flaking, pulling away, discolored at the edges or moldy.

From: GE Sealants (Henkel)

What you need

Tools

  • Caulk remover tool or plastic scraper
  • Caulk gun (for cartridge sealant)
  • Painter’s tape
  • Smoothing tool or a disposable glove

Supplies

  • 100% silicone kitchen and bath sealant
  • Rubbing alcohol or a mold-resistant cleaner
  • Paper towels

Steps

  1. Remove all of the old caulkCut along both edges and lift the old bead out completely. New sealant does not stick well to old.
  2. Clean the jointWipe it with rubbing alcohol or a mold-resistant cleaner.
  3. Let it dry fullyMoisture under new sealant spoils the bond.
  4. Tape both sidesGE Sealants suggests painter’s tape about 1/8 inch from each side of the joint, pressed down firmly.
  5. Run one continuous beadMove steadily along the joint without stopping and starting.
  6. Smooth it straight awayUse a smoothing tool or a gloved fingertip within a few minutes, before a skin forms.
  7. Peel the tape and leave it aloneRemove the tape while the sealant is still wet, then follow the cure time on the label. GE says its kitchen and bath silicones are water-ready in 30 minutes but should not be touched for 24 hours.

Safety notes

  • Open a window or run the fan while you work.
  • Cut away from yourself and take care not to scratch the tub or tile.
  • Read the label on your sealant. Its instructions come before this general guide.

When to call a professional

  • Tiles are loose, or the wall feels soft or spongy.
  • You see water stains on the ceiling or wall below the tub.
  • Mold keeps coming back soon after resealing, which can point to a leak behind the wall.

Sources

This guide is general information written in our own words from the sources above. Your owner’s manual and the instructions for your own equipment come first.

Tell it once. It remembers.

Look once a year for cracks or lifting.

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