How to recaulk a tub or shower

Teach: How to recaulk a tub or shower

What to say

To recaulk a tub, cut and scrape out every bit of the old caulk, clean the joint with rubbing alcohol, let it dry fully, then run painter's tape along both sides. Fill the tub with water so the joint opens as it will in use, lay a steady bead of mildew-resistant silicone, smooth it once, pull the tape and leave it to cure for a day.

What to show, in order

1. Slice along both edges of the old caulk with a utility knife or caulk remover and peel it out.
2. Scrape off the last traces and clean the joint with rubbing alcohol to remove soap film and mildew.
3. Let the joint dry completely, ideally overnight with the fan on.
4. Run painter's tape along the tub and the wall, leaving a neat gap over the joint.
5. Fill the tub with water so it settles and the joint widens as it will with someone in it.
6. Cut the silicone tube's nozzle small at an angle, and push a steady bead along the joint in one continuous pass.
7. Smooth the bead once with a wet fingertip or smoothing tool, then pull the tape off at an angle straight away.
8. Leave the tub full and unused until the caulk has cured, as the tube states.

The check question

Ask: Why fill the tub before caulking? Answer: The weight opens the joint as it will be in use

From EveryManSkills. General information, not professional advice.