Stop leaks in their tracks — learn how to caulk a shower!

Sealing a shower is easy if you know the steps! By using professional tips to properly caulk your shower, you can prevent future leaks, mould, and mildew from taking over your beautiful bathroom. With the following steps, you’ll be locked and loaded with the right knowledge and ready to take down any leaky shower.

Prevention is key when it comes to protecting your bathroom from pesky leaks and mould. Fortunately, knowing when to re-caulk a shower is easy, you just have to know what to look for. If the seams of your stall or tub are showing signs of cracking, peeling, or discoloration, that’s when you know it’s time to get the caulk out and re-caulk your shower. 

While there will be obvious signs that your bathroom needs re-caulking but don’t wait for all of this to happen. You could refresh your caulk every year to keep your bathroom well-maintained. After all, caulking a shower is an easy DIY project that you could do with the right tools and guidance.

In the case of caulking a shower, being equipped with the right tools for the job will make things quick and efficient. To seal a shower, you will need a few items, many of which you probably already have on hand.

If your shower already has an existing caulk, you will need caulk removal tools like a box cutter, silicone caulk remover, and a joint scraper. Do not caulk over existing caulk. Also, some shower interlocking seams may not need to be caulked; check first with the manufacturer for caulking instructions. Some seams will accumulate and naturally shed water. Trapped water is dangerous water.

For keeping a clean, smooth sealant area, you will require painter’s tape and a caulking gun. Once you have cleared the shower seams of old debris, pick up a tube of caulk and get sealing! To finish off your DIY shower repair, smooth it with a tool — or a wet finger — and wipe away the residue with a gloved hand or a paper towel.

You need a quality product if you want quality and long-lasting results. One of the things you would want to look for is a “for kitchen and bathroom” label on the caulk. They contain a special formula that resists mold and mildew.

There are two types of shower caulk: silicone and acrylic latex. Silicone is usually the first option by many because it is strong and flexible but can be difficult to smoothen and clean. Acrylic latex on the other hand is easier to apply and smoothen but deteriorates faster than silicone.

Now that you have your tools and caulk, it’s time to caulk your shower stall or door. To perform this DIY job like a contractor, you will need to prepare the following steps:

1. Unhinge old caulk. First, use your box cutter to make a line down the center of the old caulk. Do this slowly to protect the shower lining or tub from being scratched or damaged.
2. Remove the previous sealant by using a gloved hand to pull away the remaining sealant. Use a joint scraper or caulk remover to unhinge any pesky residue.
3. Wash the seams with water and dry them as thoroughly as possible before adding new caulk to the space.
4. Use painter’s tape along all the seams in your shower or bathtub. This added element will keep your bead lines straight at awkward angles and in hard-to-reach areas!

Once you’ve prepared everything, the caulking part will be easy! Just run your caulk gun along the seams in a steady, smooth line. Start in the corners, and work slowly and carefully. Make sure to hold the gun at a 45-degree angle and perform with even pressure. Pass your wet finger or a tool over the top to smooth out the bead. Carefully remove the tape, and allow the caulk time to dry.