How do you prepare a shower before caulking?

• <div><p>Before you begin caulking a shower, you’ll need to use a utility knife or solvent to remove the old caulk and inspect the area for mold. If needed, take appropriate steps to <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-clean-mold-mistakes-avoid.htm">get rid of the mold</a>, then wipe everything down with dish soap and warm water before letting it dry completely. Finally, surround the caulking area with two strips of blue painter’s tape—one above the joint where you’re caulking and another below it.</p></div>

Will a chipped bath leak?

• <div><p>A chipped bathtub could leak over time if you don’t take care of the issue. A tiny chip isn’t a big deal but may eventually grow into a larger crack. As the months go by, the tub’s barrier against moisture becomes weakened, making it prone to leaking. Large chips can also cause the tub to rust and even crack in half.</p></div>

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Q: What happens if I don’t caulk my bathtub?

• <div><p>If you don&rsquo;t caulk your bathtub, then there won&rsquo;t be a watertight seal between your bathtub and the wall tile surrounding it. As a result, water can seep into the wall and the floor and cause the perfect breeding grounds for mold and mildew. Not only does this require costly repairs, but mold can be harmful to those breathing it. </p></div>

Q: How do you prepare a shower before caulking?

• <div><p>Before you begin caulking a shower, you&rsquo;ll need to use a utility knife or solvent to remove the old caulk and inspect the area for mold. If needed, take appropriate steps to <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-clean-mold-mistakes-avoid.htm">get rid of the mold</a>, then wipe everything down with dish soap and warm water before letting it dry completely. Finally, surround the caulking area with two strips of blue painter&rsquo;s tape&mdash;one above the joint where you&rsquo;re caulking and another below it.</p></div>

Q: Will a chipped bath leak?

• <div><p>A chipped bathtub could leak over time if you don&rsquo;t take care of the issue. A tiny chip isn&rsquo;t a big deal but may eventually grow into a larger crack. As the months go by, the tub&rsquo;s barrier against moisture becomes weakened, making it prone to leaking. Large chips can also cause the tub to rust and even crack in half.</p></div>

Q: Can resurfacing or refacing be a DIY project?

• <div><p>While certain kits make DIY possible, professionals ensure durability and quality of finish, which is vital for high-moisture areas like baths.</p></div>

Q: Which bathtub is easiest to maintain?

• <div><p>While they&rsquo;re heavier than their counterparts, cast-iron tubs are very simple to maintain. They have no seams and are durable, making them the easiest tub to maintain. While fiberglass and acrylic tubs are also relatively simple to maintain, they often have seams, making maintenance a little more difficult.</p></div>

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American Tubs....

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American Tubs....

2.33(

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Customers say: Terrific value

13 years of experience

American Tubs designs and manufactures a complete line of premium quality Walk-In Bathtubs that are ideal for people with Limited Mobility, Seniors, Disabled and people with pain, arthritis, stress and other debilitating conditions.

Bathtub Restoration questions, answered by experts

If you don’t caulk your bathtub, then there won’t be a watertight seal between your bathtub and the wall tile surrounding it. As a result, water can seep into the wall and the floor and cause the perfect breeding grounds for mold and mildew. Not only does this require costly repairs, but mold can be harmful to those breathing it.

Before you begin caulking a shower, you’ll need to use a utility knife or solvent to remove the old caulk and inspect the area for mold. If needed, take appropriate steps to get rid of the mold, then wipe everything down with dish soap and warm water before letting it dry completely. Finally, surround the caulking area with two strips of blue painter’s tape—one above the joint where you’re caulking and another below it.

A chipped bathtub could leak over time if you don’t take care of the issue. A tiny chip isn’t a big deal but may eventually grow into a larger crack. As the months go by, the tub’s barrier against moisture becomes weakened, making it prone to leaking. Large chips can also cause the tub to rust and even crack in half.

While certain kits make DIY possible, professionals ensure durability and quality of finish, which is vital for high-moisture areas like baths.

While they’re heavier than their counterparts, cast-iron tubs are very simple to maintain. They have no seams and are durable, making them the easiest tub to maintain. While fiberglass and acrylic tubs are also relatively simple to maintain, they often have seams, making maintenance a little more difficult.

The Marlinton, WV homeowners’ guide to bathtub restorations

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

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