I've been battling with my shower caulking for what feels like forever! I've attempted to redo it three times already, and every time it ends up looking awful. My landlord had a handyman come in to fix it, but instead of removing the old caulk, they just slapped on new caulk over the top, which has led to cracking and some grout peeking through. I'm starting to think this might be a deeper issue related to the foundation. I've been watching a ton of YouTube videos trying to get it right, but despite using painter's tape, I still can't get those lines straight. The caulking often sticks to the tub or even pulls off other parts when I try to remove the tape. I've heard about something called caulking adhesive, but I've also been told it doesn't hold up for long. I'm really looking for some solid advice or alternative solutions here!
2 Answers
Caulking can be tricky, almost like an art! If you take your time and prep properly, it can turn out nicely. First, definitely ensure you remove old caulk and clean the surface well with denatured alcohol. I recommend using GE Advanced silicone—it's worked well for me in the past. Just remember, fill your tub with water while you caulk and keep it full until it dries. Lay your painter's tape, but remove it carefully to avoid messing up the caulking. Also, cut a smaller opening in the caulk tube than you think you need—trust me on this one! It allows you to control the amount better. If there’s grout in the corner where the wall meets the tub, replace that grout with caulk to make things smoother.
For caulking, I recommend using 100% silicone along with some essential tools like rags and a caulking tool kit. Make sure you remove all the old caulk completely since new caulk won’t stick to the old stuff. Clean the area thoroughly and let it dry—using fans can help with that! I suggest filling your tub with water before caulking and keep it full until the caulk dries. When applying, use painter's tape to get clean lines; just remove it in sections and smooth out the caulk before moving on. Remember to cut a smaller hole in the tip of the caulk tube than you think you need and wet your finger with alcohol to finish smoothing it out. It might also be worth investing in a no-drip caulk gun. If you have big gaps, you can fill them with a backer rod before caulking.
I totally relate to the struggles! I think the backer rod could be the game-changer you need since it can really help with those larger gaps. I've been in a similar boat when it comes to tape, and it definitely needs to be removed soon after caulking for the best results!
Great tips! I've had similar issues, and using less caulk has really helped me control the flow better. Plus, I completely agree about using silicone; it really makes a difference in durability!