The need for bathroom repairs may be stressful, but with the right information and instruction, you can tackle many repairs on your own. One fairly simple bathroom repair that can be done in just one afternoon is to caulk your shower. Over time, your shower builds up mold and other gunk, causing it to look dingy and dull.
If you are up for the challenge, you will need the right tools and steps to get the job done correctly. Find out what you will need and the six simple steps to caulking your shower to have it looking fresh, beautiful, and good as new.
Gather the Tools You’ll Need
The caulking process requires only a few tools to complete this bathroom repair. For this project you will need:
Silicone/latex bathroom caulk
Mold cleaner and cleaning supplies
Painter’s tape
Caulking gun
Utility knife
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Step #1: Use the Right Caulk
Ideally, you want silicone or latex caulk for your shower. The best option is caulk with both, since it offers superior waterproofing and flexibility suited to beginner projects.
If you can’t find a formula with silicone and latex, either will do. Ensure the caulk you choose is specifically designed for use in bathrooms and kitchens, otherwise you could end up with issues in the future.
Step #2: Removing the Old Caulk
To remove the old caulk properly and thoroughly, first take your utility knife and use it to gently cut through the current caulk. A flexible scraper blade can also be used to remove the old caulk.
Scrape along the shower floor until all of the caulk is removed. If you have any difficult spots, go over them again with a razor blade until all remaining caulk is gone.
Step #3: Remove All Mold and Dirt
A clean surface is a must when it comes to applying new caulking to a shower. Use a mold-killing solution to saturate, scrub, and clean the old grout.
Once you scrub the entire area, thoroughly rinse until no mold is present. When you are done treating and removing the mold, let the area dry completely.
Finally, wipe the entire area with mineral spirits for a clean surface on which to apply the new caulk. The cleaner the area, the better the new caulk will react to the application.
Step #4: Line the Shower with Painter’s Tape
Before you add the new caulk to your shower, you need to line the entire area with painter’s tape. This tape works to protect the gaps while providing you with an outline of where to apply the caulk.
Painter’s tape is very easy to remove so no need to hesitate with the amount of pressure getting it to stay in place. Start the tape at the largest gap between the shower and the wall.
Step #5: Begin to Caulk Your Shower
After you get the hang of it, caulking is a fairly easy process. After you complete the prep work, it is time to apply the caulk. To apply, ensure you are holding the caulking gun at the largest gap in the shower.
Slowly press down at a 90-degree angle, allowing a small bead of caulk to expel from the gun. Continue to glide along the surface of the shower while applying gentle pressure. Make your way around the entire shower repeating this process.
Step #6: Smooth and Wipe the Area
Lastly, remove the painter’s tape starting at the corners. Once all of the tape is removed, take a damp cloth and wipe gently along the caulk lines. It is important to smooth everything over and remove any extraneous pieces of caulk that may not be fully smoothed down.
Enjoy Your Shower!
Let the newly applied caulking set for a minimum of 24 hours. Do not get the area wet or you risk damaging the caulking. After a full 24 hours, touch to ensure it is fully dry. Once it’s dry, you can run water and enjoy your newly updated shower!
Have anymore questions about bathroom repair? Schedule an appointment with the experts at Moore Home Services.
