How to Caulk Bathroom Counters
The caulk around your sink, countertops and bathtubs serves a very important function, it keeps water from sinking down into the substrate of the countertop or flooring and causing either water damage, or creating an environment that is ideal for the growth of unhealthy mold and mildew. Whether caulking a new unit or repairing the one you have, caulking properly can save you money and headaches in the long run.
Items Needed:
- Caulk gun
- Latex caulk with micro mold inhibitors
- Box cutter or utility knife
- Lightly dampened sponge
- Spray cleaner, such as 409
- Prepare the Surface: Prepare the surface for the new caulk by removing any old caulking with a box cutter or utility knife. Using the tip of the knife, carefully go around the edges of all joined areas, peeling up the old caulk as you go. Spray the stripped areas with your cleaning solution and work it into the edges of the joins with a stiff toothbrush. Peel up any caulk that comes away as you scrub. Allow the area to dry before continuing.
- Spot Check: Once the area is dry, examine all edge joins, looking for any caulk that may have buckled or popped up as it dried. Remove any trouble areas with your utility knife and re-spray with cleaner.
- Caulk the Joins: Cut the tip of your caulk tube at roughly ¼-inch down the tip and at a 45-degree angle to assist with bead placement. Hold the caulk directly against the edge joins between the skin and the countertop and lay a bead of caulking down while applying very gentle pressure. Travel the bead all the way around the sink in one smooth continuous length. Repeat this process with the join between the countertop and the backsplash. Smooth the caulk with the tip of your finger to ensure a firm join, wiping any excess off on the dampened sponge. Let the sink set for a full 24 hours before use.