Made for u/jasminej on Reddit
Hey u/jasminej, you'll definitely want to remove all that old caulk first before applying new - caulking over moldy, peeling caulk will just trap moisture and create bigger problems down the road. The good news is this is a perfect beginner project that only takes about 1-2 hours and costs under $30 for supplies. You've got this - proper prep work now will give you a clean, watertight seal that'll last for years!
DIY Plan: Re-Caulk a Bathtub or Shower
Remove old, moldy caulk and apply fresh sealant around your tub or shower
1-2 hours (plus cure time)
Time
$10–$30
Materials
6
Tools needed
8
Steps
Step-by-Step Plan
Use a utility knife to score along both edges of the old caulk. Pull away as much as possible by hand. Use a plastic scraper to remove remaining caulk. For stubborn caulk, apply caulk remover and wait 2-3 hours.
Tip: Old caulk must be completely removed - new caulk won't stick to old caulk.
Estimated time: 20-45 minutes
Want to track your progress step by step?
Sign up free to track this project — includes 1 free AI photo check. Upgrade to Renovu+ for unlimited.
Start This Project FreeWhat You Need
Tools
- Painter's tape →(optional)
Materials
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Not removing all old caulk first
Applying caulk to wet or dirty surfaces
Cutting caulk tip too large (messy application)
Not filling the tub before caulking
Using the shower before caulk is cured
Using wrong type of caulk (must be bathroom-rated)
Safety Warnings
- ⚠Ensure good ventilation when using silicone caulk
- ⚠Wear gloves to protect hands from chemicals in caulk remover
When to Call a Professional
If there's water damage behind the tiles, if tiles are loose or grout is significantly damaged, or if mold is growing behind the wall.
Customize This Plan
Answer a couple questions and we'll tailor the plan to you
What's your DIY experience level?
What type of tub/shower?
Ready to start this project?
Track your progress step by step with a free account — your first AI photo check is included. Upgrade to Renovu+ for unlimited checks.
Start This Project FreeFree account includes full project tracking. AI validation with Renovu+.