If you are looking for an inexpensive way to brighten up your bathroom, take a moment and inspect the caulking around your tub or shower. If water tends to gather on your caulking, the caulk may have mold or mildew on it which is not only unsightly but it is not healthy. If you determine that you need to replace your caulking, it is a simple project that you can do yourself. Although the purpose of caulking a tub or shower is to keep water from damaging your inner walls, it also adds beauty when done correctly.

When choosing a caulk for a bathroom, make sure to use a mildew resistant caulk which is specially formulated for enviroments such as a bathroom. Do not use a caulk which is made for exterior surfaces because these are designed for a different purpose. When you go to purchase your caulking, spend a few extra dollars for good caulking. It will last longer and have a better moisture barrier.

If you don't already have a caulking gun, you will need one for this project. Most caulking guns are inexpensive and do a better job of applying the caulk as opposed to the small plastic tubes of caulk that you hand squeeze to release the caulking.

The items that you will need for this project are a caulking gun, caulking, a utility knife, putty knife and some rags for clean up.

1. The first thing to do is remove the old caulking. You can do this using a utility knife cutting away at the edge where the caulking meets the surface. After you cut away at the edge you should be able to pull the remainder away in larger sections. Afer doing this remove any excess using a putty knife.

2. Using household bleach, scrub the area where the caulking was. This will help to kill any mildew which still may be present.

3. Allow the area to dry thoroughly.

4. Apply the new caulk. Begin by cutting the tip off of the tube of caulk. Be sure when cutting the tip of the caulk that you do not cut off too much, about 1/4 inch. Using your caulk gun, apply the caulk directly to the replacement area.

5. After applying a bead of caulk to the replacement area, wet your finger and run it along the new caulk to smooth it out. You can clean up the caulk from your hand using a wet rag.

6. Clean up any excess caulk using a damp rag.

7. Allow the caulk to fully dry for twenty four hours before using your shower so that it can harden.The purpose of caulking a tub or shower is to simply keep water from destroying your inner walls. This pliable and waterproof adhesive is applied to joints where walls, tub, and floor meet.

Water can cause extensive damage if you don't maintain the caulking of the sink, tub and shower. The caulking seals water from leaking around the edges and through the floor, countertop or wall which can cause damage to the structure. Maintaing your caulk by checking it often and replacing it when needed can help prevent this type of damage to your house. Using the steps in this article should give you a nice, well caulked tub or shower.