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Recaulk around the tub when mold and mildew appear.
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Due to normal settling, the area around the bathtub in a brand new home may need recaulked after about a year. Ordinarily, however, the caulk around your tub should last at least five years. Recaulking is necessary whenever the old caulk starts to crack, chip or peel away from the bathtub. Sometimes caulk must be replaced because it has become stained or because mold and mildew are growing behind it. Before installing a fresh bead of caulk, peel or scrape away the old caulk and clean the area.
Why Caulk Matters
The caulking around your bathtub keeps water from leaking down inside your walls and causing damage. Not only can leaking water cause structural problems in your home, it can also affect your health. When mold and mildew get into the walls of a home, people are prone to get sick. Caulk itself can harbor mold and mildew as well if not replaced on a regular basis. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, “molds produce allergens (substances that can cause allergic reactions), irritants, and in some cases, potentially toxic substances (mycotoxins)." Taking care of your caulk helps…show more content… Cracks often develop in caulking because of the natural expansion and contraction a house undergoes as it experiences changes through the seasons. Cracks formed where the humidity is high, such as in a bathroom, are an open invitation for mold and mildew to grow, often out of sight. To prevent this and extend the life of your caulk, use your bathroom's ventilation fan every time you bathe or shower. For extra air flow, consider leaving the bathroom window open a crack. Opening a window is crucial if your bathroom lacks a ventilation fan. If your bathroom has no fan, consider leaving the door open when you shower if you can do so without sacrificing your privacy. Wipe down the shower walls after your shower, as
