How To Prevent Mold In Shower Caulk: 4 Best DIY Methods

In this article, you will learn the four ways on how to prevent mold in shower caulk. One of them is maintenance.

Maintenance is essential in every part of your home; the shower is one of them. Beyond maintenance, you’ll learn more about shower caulk mold growth if you stick around. 

how to prevent mold in shower caulk

 

Mold In Shower Caulk

Mold has airborne spores everywhere. When those spores get in contact with moisture, they become mold.

Considering how moisture-ridden our showers are, mold growth is not uncommon. Among the places that mold usually grows in is the shower caulk.

 

What is a shower caulk?

A shower caulk is a seal meant to keep the moisture away from the joints of the bath. The ideal type of caulk is made of silicone or latex, something that is waterproof.

If your shower is made of natural stone, then latex would be perfect as a shower caulk. However, for bathrooms made of tiles or fiberglass, silicon may be better.

 

How do shower caulks get mold?

Shower caulks get mold for a variety of reasons. When the wallboard behind your caulking gets wet, then it can lead to mold growth. 

Another reason would be poor grout. Sometimes, misaligned tiles contribute to shower caulk mold as well because they let moisture seep in.

Another reason to shower caulk mold growth is improper insulation. When insulation is not properly installed, it traps moisture within the walls.

As this moisture seeps out from the walls, it causes mold to grow on the caulking. Familiarize yourself with the type of mold through this article about mold identification.

 

What are the effects of mold on shower caulks?

Mold may have different effects on different people. For those who are susceptible to it, mold may be dangerous.

Children, the elderly, pregnant women, and immuno-compromised people are those that are vulnerable to mold. They may show symptoms ranging from respiratory issues to skin allergies.

However, if you are dealing with toxic mold, the health effects may be more severe. Here’s an article about identifying toxic black mold. After learning about mold growth in shower caulk, look into the prevention tips below to protect your bathroom from mold. 

 

Preventing Mold Growth In Shower Caulk

 

Method #1. Choosing the right type of caulk

In finding the correct type of caulk for your shower, you should consider four factors. First, consider the caulk’s mold resistance. This type of caulk is easy to identify as they have a manufacturer’s note that they are mold-proof.

The second thing you need to consider is the packaging. Look into how much caulk you are going to use before buying. For a seal around the shower doors, 5.5 oz of caulks is enough.

The third thing you have to consider is the color, especially if you are particular with your color schemes. If you want to play it safe, though, there are clear caulks you can use.

Lastly, consider the dry and cure time of the caulks you want to buy. The dry time is the period the caulk will be dry to the touch. 

The cure time is the period wherein the caulk is ready to be exposed to water. On average, silicone/latex combination caulks take twelve hours of drying time. Their curing time ranges from two hours to ten days. 

 

Method #2. Monitor your shower

As mentioned above, there are multiple causes of shower caulk mold. These causes tell you where to look.

If you notice mold in the caulk and its surrounding areas, maybe it’s time for a water damage inspection. Water damage investigation will shed light on the root cause of decay and prevent further mold growth. Other issues like misaligned tiles or improperly installed insulation should be fixed as well.

 

Method #3. Ventilate

When it comes to mold prevention, the most rational thing to do is to regulate the humidity in the area. Opening your windows and door is very helpful in maintaining the moisture levels.

If opening your windows and door is not enough, then use a fan. Make sure the moisture level of your bathroom is less than 60%. Otherwise, mold will thrive in your shower. 

 

Method #4. Maintain

Lastly, if you notice your mold wearing out, it may be time to change it. You may need some caulk removal tools to help you. You can use a plastic razor blade or a caulk tool

 

Ways of removing shower caulk mold

Preventing mold growth is better than removing it. However, if it’s too late for prevention, then here are ways to remove shower caulk mold to help you.

 

1. Spray ammonia

Before using spray ammonia, make sure the shower is well-ventilated and wear protective gear. Then, make the solution of equal parts ammonia and water in a small container. After that, spray the ammonia on the affected caulk.

 

2. Vinegar

Vinegar is an effective mold killer. You can use it pure or diluted if the smell is too much. Pour some in a spray bottle and spritz it on the affected area.

 

Conclusion

Learning about how to prevent mold in shower caulk is a good thing. Preventing mold growth is better than dealing with mold contamination. Also, mold prevention would spare you from the adverse health effects it causes.

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