What Are the Functions of Caulk in a Shower?

Water Leaks

• One of the main reasons to use caulk is to prevent water damage from occurring behind the shower stall. Most bathrooms have wood frames and maybe even Sheetrock underlying the the shower stall. At worst, and in the absence of caulk, water splashed from daily shower usage can soak into this underlying material and even threaten the stability of the structure. A single well-placed bead of caulk lining the perimeter of the shower substantially reduces the prospect of water damage.

Mildew

• Where there is moisture, it's a good bet there will eventually be mildew as well. The more you can prevent moisture from finding its way behind the shower, the better chance you have to avoid mildew buildup. Of course, chances are you won't be able to stop mildew forever, but the use of caulk might delay the process for several years. If you begin to notice the caulk looks black, that means mildew is starting to set in, and it's probably time to take out the old caulk and reseal the shower edges.

Air Leaks

• Air leaking around and through appliances and bathroom fixtures, such as your shower, can account for up to 20 percent of heating and cooling costs, according to the website Caulk Your Home.com. This in itself provides a good economic reason to use caulk or another type of silicone sealer anywhere you can feel air blowing into the house. Windows and doors are two other likely spots where some sort of sealer might be needed to keep energy costs down.

Considerations

• There's a good chance you should be able to caulk the shower yourself. All you need is a tube or two or caulk and a caulking gun, both of which are relatively inexpensive and available at your local hardware or big box department store. Read the instructions and follow them, and you should have no trouble. If the old caulk around your shower is cracked — or worse, missing — don't underestimate the advantages of putting in a new seal.