Filling the cracks - What to do with separations between the wall and the bathtub

Stop filtrations before they become a problem.

Ensuring that water is not allowed to escape from a bath tub or shower unit, and filter into your wall and floors is fundamental. If the joint between the tub and the wall is cracked, water can escape and lie under the tub. Given time this can cause serious damage to floor timbers and joists.

Cracks open frequently between wall tiles and bath tubs because of weight and temperature changes each time the tub is filled and emptied. Repairing cracks and separations is therefore an annual bathroom maintenance chore.

Caulking

Caulking is the easiest way to seal these cracks against the water. Caulk is a waterproof compound that will be either silicone, acrylic or latex-based. Silicone caulk is probably the most durable, although being difficult to paint is not suitable for all tasks.

Caulking guns

We recommend buying a caulking gun. These are cheap, and can be used time and time again. As squeezing the caulk out of tube is often hard work, a caulking gun will provide some extra leverage and make the job easier.

Before you begin, scrape and clean away the old caulking and any dirt or mineral deposits you find around the crack. Then ensure the area is clean and dry.

Load the tube into the caulking gun, making sure it is properly seated at both ends. Cut off the top of the tube (just a small piece) with a utility knife.

Hold the gun at not more than 45 degrees to the crack and run the spout along its length in a steady, continuous motion. Try not to use more caulk than necessary.

Finishing the job

Damp your finger and gently run it along the "bead" of caulk, so pushing it into the crack. Use a damp cloth to clean off any excess, then a dry one to finish the job.

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