Bathtub Caulk

House detective Rick Barrett takes us to a historic Denver neighborhood to inspect a 1928 Tudor style home. He noticed that the seal between the bathtub and its enclosure had begun to fail. It's a common problem, but luckily, it's an easy fix for the do-it-yourselfer.

In some cases, the bathtub and the enclosure are sealed with the same kind of grouting material used around the tile. But grout isn't flexible and will break down over time from the movement of the tub as it's repeatedly filled and drained.

To make a lasting seal, use a mildew-resistant silicone caulk where the tub meets the wall tile and at the floor. Here's how.

• The first step is to carefully remove all the old grout and caulk. If you don't do a thorough job here, the new caulk won't stick.
• Neatness counts. One trick is to put down two strips of masking tape on either side of the seam.
• Lay down a quarter inch bead of caulk then spread it using a wet fingertip. Let the caulk cure before you use the tub again. Forty-eight hours is preferable.
• When you're all done, seal up the tube of caulk with the kind of wire nut used to make electrical connections. That way it will be fresh the next time you need it.

Guests
Richard Barrett
Building inspector
5615 W. Virginia Ave.
Lakewood, CO 80226
Phone: 303-727-9300
Also in this Episode

House Detective : Episode HDT-305
•	Electrical Panel
•	Bathtub Caulk