Time to tap into the group knowledge

[Ivantherussian03]

Hey,

I have recaulked my bathroom twice now. Each time the caulk fails, and develops cracks within days.

How do I re-caulk again and make it work?

I want to fix this and be done with it. I have got targets to shoot.:Fire:

[monadnock#5]

After you apply your bead of caulk, use a spray bottle filled with water and nozzle set on mist to spritz the caulk as it's curing. RTV silicone will dry too fast and crack and pull away from the surfaces that you've sealed. Although it won't hurt the the caulking if it's wet, slightly damp is all you need.

Ken

[Bret4207]

You also need to prep the area to be caulked. Get it really clean and then do as suggested above.

[MT Gianni]

Use DAP brand tub caulk. Ocasionally repeated attempts mean movement of tub or floor and take a big fix as in replacing the floorboards. This is what caulk is supposed to do; move slightly between floor "pulses" for lack of a better word. If you do as above and are not trying to put caulk over caulk you may have some flooring issues to deal with. I hope not. Good luck with it. Gianni

[DLCTEX]

If it is cracking at the outer edges you may be making the bead too thin in that area. I know you want a smooth appearence, but try to leave it just a little thicker near the edge. Dale

[KYCaster]

I think Bret has the right answer.....cleanliness is next to.....impossible, but you gotta get rid of the soap film and residue from the tub and tile cleaners.

Remove ALL TRACES of old caulk then scrub with CLR and a brush, follow with mineral spirits on a soft cloth, then rinse with clean water. Dry thoroughly and apply the new caulk and let it cure for 24 hrs. before using.

I like siliconized latex much better than 100% silicone.

Have fun[smilie=1:
Jerry

[nvbirdman]

If you are caulking your bathtub you do know that you have to fill it with water first don't you?

[Bret4207]

Speaking of mineral spirits, I bought a gallon yesterday at Lowes (along with a Kreg jig package!). $8.00 and change!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The more specialized stuff like Xylol was up over $12.00. Sheesh. Latex here I come.

[Ivantherussian03]

Sounds good:coffeecom

[shooter575]

Speaking of mineral spirits, I bought a gallon yesterday at Lowes (along with a Kreg jig package!). $8.00 and change!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The more specialized stuff like Xylol was up over $12.00. Sheesh. Latex here I come.


A few weeks ago Tractor supply had mineral spirits for 4.00.Lowes has some good deals,but not everything.Just got to look somtimes

[Bret4207]

Even Wally Worlds stuff was about the same. Must be related to oil prices.