An inexpensive tube of caulk can do wonders for maintaining your bathroom. It can save your walls by preventing water damage and mold growth in places you cannot see.

Problem:

Water damage and mold!

Cause:

The caulk around showers, bathtubs, and windows naturally wears down and becomes brittle over time. When this occurs, water can seep through the cracks and wreak havoc.

Remedy:

If you find missing or worn caulk, luckily it is an easy fix. First, remove the old caulk with a caulk quick-removal kit from your local hardware store.  Second, clean the area.  Finally, reapply new caulk and let it dry.

Prevention:

To prevent moisture build up in your bathroom, use your overhead bath fan or crack the window for a bit after every bath or shower.

Note:  Fiberglass shower and tub surrounds, like the ones Liberty Homes uses, can prevent water from getting in between the shower/tub and the wall with an extra fiberglass edging.  However, natural deterioration of the caulk may still occur over the long term, and it is possible for water to penetrate the caulking over time, making it a good idea to check the state of the caulk periodically.