Hey everyone! We just moved into our first home, and I noticed that the bathroom baseboards aren't caulked at all. Our home inspector suggested caulking them because they're made from MDF, which can get water damage and warp if not protected. On the flip side, the builders mentioned they never caulk because they believe the paint is waterproof enough. They did offer to caulk them for us at no extra cost before we finalize the closing. What do you all think? Should we go for the caulk or skip it?
3 Answers
The builders might be avoiding caulk because it can crack as the house settles. Since the baseboards and walls are made from different materials, they expand and contract at different rates. You could find yourself redoing it a few times over the years. That said, caulking will help keep moisture out, especially in a bathroom!
I'm not a big fan of caulking in bathrooms unless it's necessary, like around the shower. Caulk tends to fail over time, and fixing it can be a hassle. However, with MDF, you might want to consider it just to be safe. Just know that it could be a bit of maintenance down the road.
I'd definitely recommend caulking! It gives the baseboards a more polished look. Plus, it helps protect the MDF from moisture in the bathroom. It’s a small step that can save you from bigger repairs down the line.