A leaking bathtub can be a nuisance and can lead to water damage if left untreated.
Fortunately, resealing your bathtub is a relatively simple DIY task that can save you money and prevent further damage.
At Good Build Superstore, we’re often asked:
How do you reseal an old bathtub?
So, we decided to put together a step-by-step guide on how to reseal a bath.
Let’s get on with it.
Table of contents:
How to reseal a bath
First things first – get your gear ready.
To reseal your bathtub, you will need the following tools and materials:
- Silicone caulk
- Caulk gun
- Razor blade or utility knife
- Painter’s tape
- Rubbing alcohol or a mild household cleaner
- Rags
Once you’ve got everything handy, simply follow these steps.
Step 1: Remove the old caulk
The first step in resealing your bathtub is to remove the old caulk. Use your razor blade or utility knife to carefully cut along the edges of the caulk. Be sure to remove all of the old caulk and clean any remaining residue with rubbing alcohol or a mild household cleaner.
If the old caulk is difficult to remove, you may need to use a caulk softener to loosen it.
Step 2: Clean the surface
Before applying the new caulk, it’s important to clean the surface thoroughly. Use rubbing alcohol or a mild household cleaner to remove any dirt, grime or soap residue. Once the surface is clean, dry it with a clean rag.
Step 3: Apply painter’s tape
To ensure a clean, straight line when applying the new caulk, use painter’s tape to mask off the area around the bathtub. Apply the tape along the edges of the bathtub and the wall, leaving a small gap between the tape and the bathtub.
Step 4: Load the caulk gun
Insert the silicone caulk tube into the caulk gun and pull the trigger to release a small amount of caulk. This will prime the gun and ensure a smooth, even application.
Step 5: Apply the new caulk
Starting at one end of the bathtub, hold the caulk gun at a 45° angle and apply a steady, even bead of caulk along the joint between the bathtub and the wall. Use a steady hand and keep the caulk gun moving at a constant speed to ensure an even application. Continue applying the caulk along the entire length of the joint.
Step 6: Smooth the caulk
After applying the caulk, use a caulk smoothing tool or your finger to smooth the caulk along the joint. This will ensure a neat, professional-looking finish. Remove any excess caulk from the smoothing tool or your finger before smoothing the next section.
Step 7: Remove the painter’s tape
After smoothing the caulk, carefully remove the painter’s tape while the caulk is still wet. This will prevent the caulk from drying onto the tape and pulling away from the joint.
Step 8: Let the caulk dry
Allow the caulk to dry as per the manufacturer’s instructions. With most products, this usually takes anywhere from 24 to 48 hours. Avoid using the bathtub during this time to prevent the caulk from shifting or becoming damaged.
Step 9: Check for leaks
After the caulk has dried, check for any leaks by filling the bathtub with water and letting it sit for a few hours. If you notice any leaks, apply a small amount of additional caulk to the affected area and allow it to dry.
Final thoughts
Resealing a bath might not sound like the most exciting DIY project, but it’s absolutely crucial for keeping your bathroom in good working order.
The good news is:
It’s a simple enough task, which any engaged owner can easily take on.
And now that you know how to reseal a bath, you have no more excuses for putting it off any longer.