Caulk

[GallenH]

There are a lot of places that are caulked in bath. I’ve replaced some but doesn’t seem to hold as well as original. Recommendations for a specific kind of caulk? Prep of area? Many thanks

[mkguitar]

I've just used the same stuff as I use in the house for the van bathroom and kitchen.
DAP Kwik Seal in the smaller 5.5 oz tube is easier to handle than a caulking gun.


Usually better result with a smaller hole cut in the nozzle ( 45º) than you think- makes more likely to push the caulk into the gap rather than it sit on top.

Then come back with a wet finger tip to push in and smooth it



as for prep, just have it clean.

[@Michael]

If it was originally silicone, then you'll have to use silicone again. Nothing else will stick to a surface that has silicone residue.

[peteco]

Even silicone won't stick to itself. All residue must be cleaned off the surface for new silicone to stick properly.

[booster]

Originally Posted by peteco

Even silicone won't stick to itself. All residue must be cleaned off the surface for new silicone to stick properly.

Yep, and more pure silicone it is the worse it is to stick to. The "siliconized" caulk is normally latex with a bit of silicone in it.


I have mainly switched to urethane caulking which is much more adhesive and stronger than silicone, plus you can get another layer to stick. The slow cure ones can take a long time to dry, when I did our home shower it took over a week to fully cure, but was watertight in about 2-3 days.

[peteco]

Originally Posted by booster

Yep, and more pure silicone it is the worse it is to stick to. The "siliconized" caulk is normally latex with a bit of silicone in it.


I have mainly switched to urethane caulking which is much more adhesive and stronger than silicone, plus you can get another layer to stick. The slow cure ones can take a long time to dry, when I did our home shower it took over a week to fully cure, but was watertight in about 2-3 days.

What brand & type do you use? I have used Lexel for many years and like it, though it is harder to get a smooth bead than silicone.

[Bud]

Originally Posted by peteco

What brand & type do you use? I have used Lexel for many years and like it, though it is harder to get a smooth bead than silicone.

I've also used it outside my Express Van drips rails, both sides. Also repaired a roof with it, good stuff I found.

[mkguitar]

Originally Posted by @Michael

If it was originally silicone

I don't think the manufacturer used a silicone based caulk in the galley and head.


OP has a Pleasure Way, as do I