I've paid people to do this before and it always ends up moldy within a year, so I learned how to do it myself. One thing I do when removing caulk is use a hair dryer. It's a lot easier to get it off cleanly if you heat it up. After you thoroughly clean the gap with alcohol, I like to spray bleach in the gap and leave it overnight. Before I do the new caulking, I again use a hairdryer to make sure that gap is BONE DRY. That's the only way you avoid mold growth coming from behind the caulking. Mine has gone 7 years and counting with no mold growth.
You posted this 9 years ago and it’s still helping people today! Thank you so much for this, I’m currently redoing my tub and this video is the best I’ve stumbled on so far!
One thing I really liked is that you showed where you didn’t like how the corner turned out at first-it’s honest and real! So many tutorials make it look like a task is easy to do, perfectly, and then I get frustrated when I try… You showed that it doesn’t always come out perfectly even for experienced people who are good at it, and how to correct the areas you’re not initially happy with. That is a very helpful and encouraging way to teach; thank you!
Ken, you're the salt of the earth and big brother/father figure to 2 million viewers! Thanks for sharing, and above all, the sunny disposition! Be blessed.
I have been doing this for about 50 years now so I know what and how to do this and I was very impressed with your procedure right up to where you remove the tape. What we need to do is understand why silicone gets moldy. The problem stems from the natural predilection of all caulkers, to smooth the bead out with our finger or an appropriate tool, which inevitably produces a very smooth fine edge. An extremely thin edge! This produces a very aesthetically pleasing finish but the problem is when it cures it becomes a very flexible rubber so over time, as people clean and rub it in normal use, because it is so thin and rubbery, it eventually lifts just a bit, at the very edge, where it is so thin and flexible, (this is where it is so important to clean properly with 90%+ Isopropyl alcohol to ensure the best possible adhesion), but because it so rubbery it snaps right back to where it was, so no one can tell. Eventually soapy water get under the lifted edge and over time mold starts to form and everything spreads. This is why you mask the bead before hand. By masking the bead and then smoothing with your finger or the tool to make a finished bead and allowing the silicone to set just a bit before removing the tape, you can create a sharp edge, with a slight increase in thickness at the very edge, (just the thickness of the tape), which makes it stronger enough and thick enough to rest being pulled loose and lifted, so you never get mold ever again, because there is never any place for mold to grow and you can scrub the silicone with Ajax or anything else and scrub it as hard as you like and it won't come loose. I did this the first time for my mother and although she eventually moved out, she did use it for over 15 years that I saw and there was never a speck of mold afterward.
@@Hitman0220 Yes, it seems that is exactly what he is saying. Makes sense. Have a thicker edge so that it doesn’t get rubbed off over the years. Who knew that caulking a tub would require such expertise?! I am glad I watched this!
Awesome! I'm a 65 years old woman and after watching your video I know that with this on my iPad I can replace the caulking around my sinks, tub and shower! How much caulking is in each tube? I.e. Is there just enough to do one tub? Or will the be extra in the tub after the tub is finished? Will I need one for the tub, another for the huge shower and yet another for the sinks? I know one will do the sinks. Lol. Just your best guess, not exact is all I'm asking. Your instructions are complete, clear and concise. Understandable enough even for an older woman like myself. I have a feeling I will be watching more of your video (and recommending them to my girlfriends) for more great instructions. Thank you so much for the time and effort you put into making this excellent video.
One important tip. When removing the old caulk, always, Always, ALWAYS COVER THE DRAIN WITH WASHCLOTH OR TOWEL TO PREVENT DEBRIS COLLECTING IN TGE DRAINPIPE. Caulk can clog drains and no matter how caredul you are when scraping, some scrapings will find the way in if not covered.
and put an old towel down on the bottom of the tub so no one is there making it filthy with shoes or scraping the fiberglass if you don't have porcelain.
I watched Ken Training video concerning how to caulk my bath tub. I love his way of training and strongly believe that I can do the same thing. He also taught me how to be patient when doing the work. Again Thank you Ken Training.
Just finished re-calking my bath tub after watching similar vids on youtube. It came out really nice. I wanted it to share with everyone what worked for me. After I taped up the tub, and applied the calk, it was time to use my finger to smooth things out. Since I was using white silicone calk, i got a small cup, filled with 1oz of dish soap, and added a bit of water, and mixed it. Then I just dipped my finger in the soap solution and gently started to smooth the calk, wiping excess on the paper towel. The silicone calk won't stick to your soapy finger! It works.
This is a good technique that is being illustrated by Ken. I've been using this technique with great results for decades. One bit of additional advice: You're using 100% silicone. The solvent is mineral spirits/paint thinner. Silicone skins over pretty quick. Best to get to the final screed pretty quick and lube up your screed device (in your case a finger) with solvent as you make final wipe. Clean and re-lube screed after every wipe. You're dragging the caulk out somewhat with that un-lubed latex glove.
Watching this in November 2020 - so many great tips and also tips in the comments like using a blow dryer to soften caulk before removing. Thanks, Ken and thanks people who commented with tips. Going to re-caulk a standing shower plus a tub today.
Thanks for the video. Spent the whole day stripping out some 20 year old caulking that was badly mildewed on a tub in my house using your advice. One thing I found is that it's good to wrap the body of the razor cutting knife with some of the painters tape around where the blade comes out to keep from scratching the tub up. I was scraping away and then noticed I was leaving marks on the tub and it was because I was having to go at some pretty aggressive and shallow cutting strokes to get the old caulk out and the body of the cutting knife was scratching the tub.
You sir are the master of caulk! You make handling caulk so easy! My caulk was super dirty, I couldn't even look at my caulk and my wife couldn't either. Definitely the best caulk tip I've ever had, just the tip!
All people that have commented, all complaints... He did a good job removing the caulk, thank you for the demo. Now im going to do my own tub. Thanks for the suggestion, go for quality not garbage.
Great video for us first-timers. Bought the tools, tape, alcohol, etc. and my previously dirty-looking caulk in our master bath is now white again. Thanks!
Thank you so much for the detailed video. Have two bathrooms that need this done and haven't done this before. The attention to detail and idea for taping off is really helpful.
Never knew about the caulk remover before, I always did it the hard way and most times couldn't get all the mold off. I'll definitely try it your way next time. Thanks Ken.
Thank you for taking the time to explain and coming very close with the camera to see/know what product to use/buy exactly, where to buy it from, and how much it will cost, every thing is clear.
Great video . If you want smooth results lubricate your finger with mineral spirits then run your finger over the caulking. If you run a thin bead of caulk you have less cleaning at the end. Nice work.
Thank you Ken. I've used a lot of tools, but do not have a lot of bathroom experience. You just put all my fears to rest for my tub. Mine even looks just like the video. (maybe a little darker on the mold) I will use the tape. I am really glad you pointed that out. I know how fast you can make a mess with caulk. And thank you for the exact product recommendations. I needed that. I thought your video was perfect. It was to me. I have done all of those things in other situations. You just showed me exactly how to do it right on my tub. Step by perfectly timed step. I will now be looking for more of your videos. Thank you, Jim
Hey there. YES - i think i did well. I enjoy the new bathroom now - who knew i could DIY that!...with your video.. i guess i will DIY much of the repair around the house..and i do have lots of tools anyway - just needed more efficient way of doing things - learning from experts (like you). THANKS MAN! CHEERS!!
Thank you so for your expertise. I did exactly what you did, I turned on the radio, relaxed and took my time. Looks great now, but my CORNERS don't look at them ,they are a nightmare. But all and all it looks pretty good. Thank you very much for your help. Deano
Great presentation! I re-caulked my bathtub about 6 months ago, using that cheap caulk in the squeeze tube. It has separated from the tub and tile already. Thanks for the heads-up regarding using pure silicone. The painter's tape was also a helpful idea. I'm looking forward to watching other do-it-yourself projects from you.
Hubby and I just bought a beautiful home that is in need of lots of love. Somehow, I have become the "designated caulker." Thank you for your video as I needed guidance on everything, from what caulk to buy to how to work the gun lol!
Thanks Ken! Great video! I loved how you gave the specifics on all tools/supplies needed and gave a clear step by step demonstration. I also liked some of additional comments below on using older credit card, hair dryer to loosen caulk and caulk removal tool!
Took days to prep my shower for re-caulking. Has both white and clear silicone (where metal from glass door meets the shower walls). Used every tool mentioned (including the hair dryer) and then some. Clear silicone was a bear to remove. I read that vinegar is better than bleach for removing the mold and keeping it from returning. That's what I'm using... hope it works! Getting my courage up to finish the job. Definitely plan to use the tape when applying the new silicone. Thanks for the great instructions!
Came here because my first attempt at doing this came with my wife's extreme disapproval :D ! Needless to say, after watch this and reading a number of the comments - the second attempt was considerably better. Thanks for the video!
So glad you mentioned not using old caulk. I was just about to use a tube that was 6 years old. UGH!! All of that work and for it to not set would have been a hair pulling moment.
I've used both latex and silicone caulks and they both always molded up again. The silicone did last a little bit longer but not anywhere near the warranty stated. So, if I have to do it sooner than I want again I decided to use the less messy product: latex. Maybe I'll try the tape idea to see if its easier to get neater lines. Got a kick out of the "Pleasantville" segment...all black n white.
This video was extremely helpful, and I now feel confident that I can redo the caulk in my shower/tub. Thank you very much for spending the time sharing your knowledge! You were very thorough, which was exactly what I needed!!! I really appreciate it.
Nice video Ken. My girlfriend is going to give it a go at her apt, since her superintendent won't take care of it for her after about 10 requests. This video gave her the confidence she needs to take it on :). Thanks again,
Thank you for your extremely helpful video. I've never done anything like this until now. Your video makes me feel more prepared and that I can do this. 💛
What a brilliant idea to use painters tape when caulking your tub. I just painted a couple of rooms in my house during this quarantine and such a simple idea but it made so much sense. Ty for a great informative video.
Glad I found this...Thank you! I've counted on maintenance to attend to this, yet results didn't last long, so looking forward to tackling it myself. I've the luxury/necessity of being able to take my time with it. I agree, if at all possible purchase the better caulking. I see the comments recommend once old caulking is removed, use bleach, hair dryers, etc.to assure area is dry as possible prior to sealing it all up. Makes sense. Years ago when helping to get a home we purchased up to speed to live in, redoing areas damaged by dampness was tackled. Some of it was pretty rough but it got done. Good Advice given to me back then prior to beginning these projects I learned to really appreciate & pass on; As Ken shows before getting started, use gloves & eye coverings, also please consider using masks. Not just the mold spore potential, but other nasties are best not inhaled. Thanks again these videos...it feels great to have the sense of accomplishment as well as a finished project!🌟
Yes, maintenance here not much good either. I showed the mold to them when we moved in a few years ago and all the guy did was stick a wider bead over the moldy caulk. Nice. Now I need to fix it right.
Thank you ! Tub has severe Mold that needs to removed with tsp with mineral spirits . i never cover with caulking till all removed . Tub is filthy , sand down tsp removed with simple green
I just came here to give you my biggest thanks and gratitude for this video. Yesterday, I was able to replace the silicone with all the tools you used in the video. Best of all, the blue tape was a lifesaver!! My family appreciates the results and I’m not even a man 😆😅 BEST DIY VIDEO 😊
Thank you Ken, I gained a lot of insights of how to do this. I like the idea of having music while doing this and that 10 year mold caulk which I didn't know exist. And someone told me to use the edge of a rounded credit card to smooth our the edges. So, I'm off to Lowes and getting me stuffs. Thank you again - u did a good job.
Thanks for all the excellent details in this video - I learned a LOT. I tried using one of those gadgets that supposedly helps you spread the caulk smoothly without needing to tape - WRONG - it just made a big mess. I had to remove that first attempt, and come back to the basics you taught here. Thanks to your tips my shower now looks great!
That blue tape is a great product, but you should NEVER stretch it the least bit when applying to tub enclosure or other surfaces. That excess tension on the tape after applied will cause it to loosen up, and fall from the surface in just a few moments. Apply gently, and then apply pressure with fingers. Again, do not stretch tape when sealing it.
Thanks, this was very helpful. I will be caulking a new bathtub and i was thinking before watching your video was to have an Pro expert come in and do this. Now, i may just do-it myself. Thanks again.
I really like that you started by showing and telling about items to be used; very helpful. Thanks also for bringing the info regarding the expiration date!
What I found that works really well is that I spray pure undiluted javex or bleach on the moldy caulking then turn the exhaust fan on and close the door so that the fumes stay in the washroom. Then I come back at the end of the day and the caulking is bleached white again. I then wash down the all the tiles and caulking area and let it dry.
Actually, the best way to deal with this mold is to use soft scrub with bleach, apply a liberal amount directly onto the molded chaulking. Then you have to moisten paper towel and roll into a tightly wound wad (long ways), then apply this over the gel to keep it from drying out ! LET SIT FOR 12 - 24 HRS...remove the toweling and the mold will be GONE !! This method is a great way to maintain the shower area and not let the mold get out of control, think of it as preventive maintenance - If you catch the mold early on, you will never have to recaulk the areas affected.
That works nice with the tape for people who don't caulk regularly it really only takes a few extra minutes to tape it for those of us that do use it more often taping is an extra step..wet your finger and watch your pressure if anyone wants to try it without tape make sure when you cut the tip to make it a tad bit smaller...Nice job Ken!
Thanks for all the hints! I am redoing the caulk behind the kitchen sink. Problem is, the caulk needs to be paintable and I was told the silicone can't be painted. Also, before watching the video I cleaned with white vinegar. I'm not going thru and redoing it with alcohol. Alcohol leaves a residue, anyhow. (Little tidbit from doing my nails at home for years). I hope this turns out for me!
try Lexel White / www.amazon.com/SASHCO-13080-Lexel-Synthetic-Rubber/dp/B00DU1O1UG/ref=asc_df_B00DU1O1UG/?tag=bingshoppinga-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid={creative}&hvpos={adposition}&hvnetw=o&hvrand={random}&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=e&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl={devicemodel}&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=&hvtargid=pla-4583657821579426&psc=1
This is the BEST VIDEO I’ve seen for caulking the tub. But, i wanted to buy the tools, that you used, but you dont have them listed. That would have been very helpful. But thank you for the excellent video!!
This is an excellent video. I followed these instructions, and my bathtub looks awesome. I agree that the painter's tape really helps to keep the link clean. Thank you for this informative video!!
Thanks so much for this very helpful video. You left no stone unturned with your explicit instructions. My tub came out great-- the secret's in the painter's tape! Who knew??? Now I do!
Thank you very much for this video. It was so helpful. I just finished my first caulking job around my bathtub. I had a lot of fun. And it looks really good. Thank you!
I really like how he used the painter's tape to get a clean edge. It takes a wee bit longer at the beginning but, much less time and stress when applying the caulk.
This is VERY helpful! I live in an apartment and the caulk around the tub is the cheap stuff. I can't wait to use your method to replace it. thanks again!
Super job! And you stopped fussing with the corner at just the right time! I was in the middle of doing the same thing in my bathroom and didn't know when to pull off the tape until you said to remove it before it sets up. That's just what I did and it's a perfect job. Thank you for this video.
Glad I discovered your YT channel , I learned a lot. I will use your method to change grout on my bathroom sink and kitchen sink also. Now I know how to mount grout tube in the device. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you Ken for doing this video, it is going to come in really handy as I need to do the same thing, so thanks for that! I'll be looking at some of your other video's to see if the is something else I can get help with. Thanks a bunch!
Another way to get rid of mildew is to go get some soft scrub with bleach. Apply it right on top of your caulk - basically applying the soft scrub as a 2nd layer of caulk. Then leave it overnight. The caulk will be totally white again. As long as the caulk is still in good shape you can do this regularly to keep it super white.
I have marble enclosure and bleach is not good to use on marble - so I had to purchase special mildew cleaner for marble - Bleach "bleaches" out the marble.
Hi Ken, Your video was very helpful on replacing the caulking around my tub. I am ready to tackle the job! Thanks for all your good tips as well. Hopefully mine will turn out as well as yours did. I look forward to more of your training videos. Take care.
