Is It Time to Recaulk Your Shower?

Caulk is a multi-faceted adhesive that shares properties of both glue and sealants. Caulking is done around exposed joints to prevent water from seeping under the tiles in the shower, around the faucets, bathtub, showerheads, top of the vanity, and more. A caulking gun is used to insert the adhesive between spaces prone to absorbing water.

How to Know if It’s time to Recaulk the Shower

You can use the best caulk in your shower, and it will still require replacement after a specific time. You should watch out for these signs to know that it’s time to recaulk:

The Caulk is 5 Years or Older

The optimal time for caulk replacement is every 5 years.

The optimal time for caulk replacement is every 5 years. Even if your caulk doesn’t show damage, if it has been 5 or more years since the last caulk job, you can prevent any deterioration by recaulking as a safety precaution. Regular maintenance and caulk replacement will not let mold or mildew damage your shower.

There’s Mold or Mildew Under the Caulk

If you see mold or mildew under the caulk, that indicates that the caulk has gotten old or damaged, leading to water leakage and promoting the growth of harmful bacteria in damp areas. Without the caulk’s waterproofing ability, it is very easy for moisture to make way for mold to take roots and grow.

The Caulk is Cracking, Peeling, Or Missing Pieces

When caulk wears out, it loses its adhesiveness and starts to crack. If left for long, it starts peeling away from the wall. This leads to moisture trapped under the caulking and causes water damage to the shower. A waterproof caulk must be used in the shower to give longevity and protection to the fittings.

Last Words

Fortunately, recaulking is a quick job, and grout specialists ensure proper sealing, straight clean lines, and a polished final look. Maintaining the caulking goes a long way toward protecting your shower from water damage.