Tub Caulking - Time to Replace Before Selling

Posted on January 12, 2009 
Filed Under Listing and Selling Your Home, Valerie Zinger

Have you noticed that the edge sealer around your tub / shower stall is poorly applied and turning black in the corners and along the edges.  This is a sign of mould.  If you notice it, rest assured, so will Buyers notice it.  It worries Buyers.  Water may have leaked behind the sealer.  Is there damage somewhere? 

You can avoid Buyer concern by buying a kit at the hardware store that will have the tools to help you remove the sealer and apply a new bead of silicone around the edges.  There are a number of websites that will give you instructions on applying sealer.  I like WikiHow  How to Caulk a Bathtub.  There are more hints than actual instructions.   The Home Improvements Topics is another site that provides diagrams and ideas on the equipment needed. 

BIG TIP:  After taking off the old sealer, fill the tub and sit or stand in the tub when applying the new sealer.  The tub will be lower filled than empty.  The silicone has flex and, the lower the tub when applied, the less likely it is that the seal will be broken when the tub is in use.

This is not a 10 minute fix. 

Spend time to do it right because your house is worth it.

Photo credit:  Bath - edges of tub lots of stains and grine @ http://www.flickr.com/photos/30561799@N08/2857455990/in/photostream/

Valerie Zinger ~ Ottawa, Canada ~ 613-723-5300 ~ vzinger@royallepage.ca

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