Recaulk Tub & Shower
Fresh caulk lines make your entire bathroom look newer. One of the highest-impact refresh tasks.
Time Required
1-2 hours
Cost
$8-15
Difficulty
Moderate
What You'll Need
- 100% silicone caulk (kitchen & bath formula)
- Caulk gun
- Blue painter's tape
- Smoothing tool or wet finger
- Paper towels and cup of water
Caulk Types
Use 100% silicone for tub/shower areas. Not silicone-acrylic blends.
Silicone is waterproof and flexible. Acrylic caulk cracks and molds faster in wet areas.
Good Choice
- • 100% silicone, mold-resistant
- • DAP or GE Silicone II brands
- • Clear or white (match your grout)
Avoid
- • Acrylic latex caulk
- • Silicone-acrylic blends
- • Cheap generic brands
Step-by-Step Application
Ensure surface is clean and dry
If you removed old caulk recently, wait 24 hours. Surface must be completely dry.
Apply painter's tape
Place tape on both sides of the joint, leaving 1/8" to 1/4" gap. This ensures clean, straight lines.
Cut nozzle at 45-degree angle
Start with a small hole - you can always cut more. Puncture inner seal with caulk gun rod.
Apply caulk in one continuous bead
Hold gun at 45 degrees, push forward steadily. Consistent pressure = consistent bead. Go slowly.
Smooth immediately
Wet finger or smoothing tool. One continuous stroke. Don't go back and forth - makes a mess.
Remove tape immediately
Pull tape at 45-degree angle while caulk is still wet. Don't wait - it will tear the caulk.
Let cure
Don't use shower/tub for 24 hours. Full cure takes 7 days (can use gently after 24 hours).
Where to Caulk
| Location | Priority |
|---|---|
| Tub/shower edge where it meets wall | Critical |
| Inside corners of tub surround | Critical |
| Around tub spout and fixtures | High |
| Floor-to-tub joint | High |
| Sink edge to countertop | Medium |
Pro Tips
- •Fill the tub first: Fill with water before caulking. The weight compresses the joint. Caulk, let cure, then drain.
- •Work in sections: Do one side at a time. Apply, smooth, remove tape before moving to the next section.
- •Less is more: A thin, consistent bead looks better than a thick glob. You can always add more.
- •Practice first: Run a test bead on cardboard to get the feel before working on the tub.