Tips on how to put sealant around bath?

Question

I have a leak through my bathroom ceiling into the kitchen and presume (I recently had a plumber in who checked the pipes which were ok) the leak is coming through the sealant. At present we have bathroom sealant around the bath and strips on top of that. My plan is to remove all of the sealant and start from scratch. Any tips? I really want to get this right as I can't afford for the leak to continue.

Answer 1

yes use a sponge to clean up the sealent

Answer 2

I assume your talking about putting in caulking?

Get the expensive caulking gun, the one that slightly backs off the pressure after you pull the trigger.  Costs about $20 vs $3.  With the cheap guns its hard to get the flow of caulk to stop once you get it started - which turns into a huge mess for the beginner.

If you've never done this, don't expect to get a perfect line.  Wet your finger and apply gentle pressure to smooth out the bead after you apply the caulk from the gun.  Have rolls of paper towels handy the clean off your finger as you go.  Keeping the finger wet is key.

Make sure the surface your applying the caulk to is clean and dry first.

Answer 3

Sounds like you already have good plans.  When removing the old, get it really down to nothing, using a razor if needed.  I'd use silicone sealant.  You can usually get a good finished result by just using a finger along the corner, though on your first try it may not go so smoothly.

Was the plumber able to check the drain pipe under the tub?

Answer 4

Use a putty knife to remove all sealant, I might also suggest using a stiff nylon brush after that for stubborn specks and dirt.

If mold is present, a bleachwater solution sprayed, and allowed to air-dry, on the surface should kill it.

Wipe a final time with plain water and allow to dry.

Use a caulk gun with a bathroom-grade caulk matching your color.  Cut the nozzle at an angle, it will make applying it much easier.  I suggest a 3/16 to 1/4 bead of caulk, just make sure it seals all gaps.

Run the bead along the entire length of the corner, and then smooth, either with your finger, or a special caulk smoothing tool.  You can add more caulk while still wet to areas if needed.

Allow time to dry, (this should be listed on the back of the caulk) and inspect before allowing to get wet.  If any spots were missed, they are easily touched up.

Good Luck!

Answer 5

Be sure and check for black mold, it can be hazardous to your health and is caused by moisture.  Read the instructions on the CAULK and follow them carefully.  Always apply to a clean surface, etc.  The best thing to do is to have a professional do the job.

Have you considered that your bathtub drain may be leaking?