Bathroom caulk deteriorating

Answer: call a handyman.

Cracked, peeling, or discolored caulk around bathtubs, showers, sinks, and toilets is more than ugly — it's an open invitation for water to seep behind walls and under floors, causing hidden mold growth, subfloor rot, and costly structural damage. Caulk typically lasts 5–10 years before it dries out, shrinks, and loses its seal. Re-caulking is a straightforward repair: the old caulk must be completely removed, the surfaces cleaned and dried, and new 100% silicone caulk applied in a continuous bead. A handyman can re-caulk an entire bathroom in 1–2 hours.

Who to call

For this problem, call a: Handyman

Symptoms to look for

  • Visible cracks or gaps in the caulk line around the tub or shower
  • Caulk is peeling away from the wall or tub surface
  • Black, pink, or orange mold or mildew growing on or behind the caulk
  • Water seeping behind or below the tub during showers
  • Caulk has turned yellow or hardened and no longer feels flexible

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