How Much Does it Cost to Caulk a Bathtub?

Caulking a bathtub is an essential home improvement project, which not only protects the tub against leaks and cracks but also helps prevent mold growth. It can also help you save money by keeping your energy bills low and lowering the risk of water damage to your bathroom.

Caulk a bathtub

A lot of people wonder how much does it cost to caulk a bathtub. The answer to that question largely depends on your home and the size of the tub. For example, a small job can cost anywhere from $65 to $300, while a large one might exceed $500.

Remove the Old Caulking

Before you start a new caulk job, it’s important to clean the area and prepare the surface for a new coat of caulk. This will ensure that the new caulk sticks to the surface and is more likely to last for a long time. You can use a utility knife or a razor blade to remove the old caulk.

Choose the Right Caulk for Your Bathtub

There are a variety of types of caulk available, including silicone and latex. The type of caulk you use depends on your specific needs, but it should be able to seal gaps and resist moisture.

For instance, silicone caulk is ideal for sealing gaps that are a quarter-inch in width or a half-inch in depth and works best on slick surfaces like glass or ceramic tiles. In contrast, latex caulk is better for more porous or uneven areas.

Apply the Caulk

The best time to caulk a tub is during the fall or winter, when temperatures are colder. During this period, the caulk will dry faster than during warmer weather. It will also be able to retain its shape and hold its color better.

If you can, try to avoid the sun during the day as it could dry out your caulk. If you do choose to work outdoors, it’s a good idea to wear old clothing and nitrile gloves, and ensure that you have a proper ventilation system in place so that your workspace stays cool.

Using the Caulking Gun

Invest in a caulking gun to help you get an even, smooth bead of caulk. You can also use a squeegee or a rag to push out the caulk, but a caulking gun is much easier and more accurate.

Before you begin, it’s important to make sure that the tub is completely empty and dry. If you don’t do this, the caulk will soak up the moisture and may not set properly. It’s also a good idea to clean the surface of the tub before you begin.

Once the tub is empty, use a caulking gun to apply an even bead of caulk along the gap between the flooring and the bathtub. It’s a good idea to run your finger across the bead right after you apply it to ensure that it grips both the bathtub and the flooring.