headware wrote:

I'm replacing some moldy caulking along the edge of my bathtub where
the tub meets the tiled wall. As I was removing the caulking, the
grout behind it also started to come out in spots. I think I'm going
to have to remove all of the grout along the edge, but do I need to
replace the grout with more grout or can I replace it with just
caulking? If I need to replace the grout, should I put caulk over it
as well?

Thanks,
Dave


Everything I have read on the topic advises to use caulk between
tub/wall, wall/floor and wall/wall joints because the joints flex and
will cause grout to crack. That is likely why you have caulk over
grout. It might be a special problem if the gap is wide (more than about
1/8" or a little more). I would clean both surfaces very well, use
util. knife to scrape out loose grout, and redo the joint with silicone
caulk. Tile and porcelain tub are easy to clean the old caulk from -
use new razor blade scraper. Wipe with full-strength bleach, let dry,
wipe with denatured alcohol, let dry, appley new caulk. I have redone
quite a few old caulk joints and have never had problems with mildew on
the new caulk when it was cleaned properly.