I've removed all the old sealant. There is a gap in both corners. It's about 1/3 to 1/2 inch wide at the bottom between the top of the tub and the shower wall corner. I can stick my finger into it an inch or so - there is damaged wall-board back there. The gap is about 2 inches tall, but then narrows to nothing.
I know it sounds kind of bad - this whole bathroom needs to be re-done. But for time being - what is the best way to fill and seal this large gap. Just squirt tons of silicone into it? Or is there something else I could use?
2006-12-03 11:31:43 · 6 answers · asked by markatger 2 in Home & Garden ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
First squirt full strength bleach everywhere you can in the cavity. This will help (not cure) the mold problem. Let the area dry for at least a day, longer is better. Your co workers won't notice the difference for 2 or 3 days. Squirt full of waterproof silicon, following label directions. In general, bathtub caulk is inferior to the kind that stays rubbery when cured. It also takes longer to set. When in doubt, I keep reading the labels in the store till I find what seems to be the most appropriate.
About mold. For most of us it is not a real problem, especially when sealed in. I would properly repair the tub area as soon as possible regardless, to get rid of the mold & also repair structural damage that may be present. If anyone in the family develops an unexpected breathing problem, see a doctor immediately. Some molds for some people are deadly.
2006-12-03 13:27:17 · answer #1 · answered by bob h 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You can buy a vinyl strip that is self-adhesive that sticks just above the tub and onto the tub-surround. I then caulked the edges of the the strip and it was water tight when we sold the house still. This will fix the problem temporarily in your case until you can replace the wallboard behind with cement board or blue board. There is wallboard damage from water and there might be mold so it should be fixed asap. I included a website that sells a similar product available at most hardware stores.
2006-12-03 11:43:33 · answer #2 · answered by Brin 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Using the correct silicon is important. Be sure to use one that is described as bathtub caulk and be sure it says "mildew resistant" on it. For a big gap put it in there in layers (about 24 hours between applications) so it will cure. It will set up faster if the area is cool and damp since silicone cures with moisture.
2006-12-03 11:44:14 · answer #3 · answered by normy in garden city 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Pack it with rolled up paper (news, magazine) then caulk it. If u just start filling it all the caulk will just drop in. You said there was damage, you should have it repaired asap because of mold.
2006-12-03 11:47:40 · answer #4 · answered by Les Gramps 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
make sure it is dry and then apply silicon to fill the area.
2006-12-03 11:34:13 · answer #5 · answered by texascomet 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
grow some potatoes
2006-12-03 11:40:44 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋