PSA: That $10 silicone caulk tool set is a total waste for tub seams

I spent a whole weekend re-caulking my bathroom tub in Wichita only to have it peel off within 3 weeks. Turns out I was using those little silicone shaping tools from the hardware store that claim to make perfect corners. The trick I should've used from the start is just a popsicle stick dipped in dish soap water to smooth the bead. It gave me a clean seal without leaving those thin edges that flake off. Anyone else have better luck with a simple hack over fancy tools?

2 comments

2 Comments

mark_cooper1mo ago

Is it really that big of a deal though? I mean yeah it stinks when caulk peels off but you're acting like the tool set is some kind of scam. I've used those little silicone tools plenty of times and they work fine if you know what you're doing. Maybe the real issue is just how you prepped the surface or the kind of caulk you bought. A popsicle stick is neat and all but I think people make too big a deal out of this stuff.

kelly.daniel1mo ago

Had a buddy who used those tools and ended up with mold behind the caulk because the silicone tools didn't push it deep enough into the gap. Popsicle stick lets you really jam it in there and get a better seal.