Bathroom Caulking Tips

Caulking prevents leaks in the bathroom.bathroom image by Mat Hayward from Fotolia.com

Caulk is a material used for the sealing of leaks and crack in the bathroom and kitchen. Moisture enters cracks in the bathroom and creates mold when not blocked by caulk. Caulking is needed in any areas that may seep water such as behind sinks, between the bathtub and wall and where the toilet touches the floor.

Caulk Removal

Remove all old caulk from seepage points before applying new caulk. Begin scrapping old caulk off using a cutting or scrapping tool that will not damage the bathroom equipment says Tim Carter of the Ask the Builder Website. Wear gloves when using sharp blades to prevent cuts. Use rubbing alcohol to help remove acrylic caulks and polyvinyl acetate caulks. The rubbing alcohol swells the caulk, making it easier to remove. After the bulk of the caulk is removed apply sodium or potassium hydroxide to remove the excess.

Surround the caulking area with masking tape to get a clean caulk line recommends the Bob Vila website. This prevents caulk from spreading. Place one piece of tape on each side of the straight caulking line, leaving a gap in the middle. Apply the caulk slowly and evenly using a caulking gun, moving excess caulk onto the tape using a finger. Do not apply with bare hands. Wear latex gloves to prevent caulk from sticking to your skin. Use a paint stick to smooth the caulk.

Replace old caulk with a mildew resistant caulk variety. Mildew resistant caulk will break down slowly and will not turn black over time like older caulks. Use a squeeze bottle of caulk for areas around the sink faucet to keep the area clean. Cartridges are often too large. Unplug a caulk tube by cutting off the end and use a screw to push any excess material out. Keep the screw and put it into the caulk cartridge when finished. This seals the cartridge and prevents further clogging.