When I removed the old caulking from around the tub I think I removed too much.?

Question

When I pulled out the old caulking I think I pulled out some of the caulking that was used to hold the surround to the wall. In some places the surround sticks out a little more from the wall than it did before. Help! I don't know whether to just recaulk it or to try to put some caulk into the space between the wall the the surround first.

Answer 1

I agree with using liquid nails to get the surround re-glued to the wall. When you re-chalk, run a strip of masking tape above and below where you're caulking. Then you can put a nice clean bead down without smearing it everywhere. When you're finished, just pull off the tape.

Answer 2

It sounds like the surround may not have been very well attached to the wall near the bottom. You could try to get some adhesive up behind it, (maybe using a putty knife to shove it up in there, but you will need to be careful or you'll wind up getting the adhesive everywhere. If it can easily be pushed back to the proper location the bead of caulk will probably hold it well enough. This is important, make certian you get every bit of soap residue off where you want the caulk, or it won't stick.

Answer 3

Liquid nail the panel back on using pressure until it sets, then re-caulk with mildew resistant bath and kitchen caulk.

PS let caulk cure before you use tub (24 hour cure time).

Answer 4

use a stiff plastic putty knife to keep from scratching the tub surface or the wall.they may even sell caulk removing tools nowadays i don't know im an old school carpenter.you can use a metal putty knife but go slow.any abrasive kitchen sponge and soft-scrub will clean up left over residue.

Answer 5

Use 100% silicone caulk...you should be fine