colors of caulk

[darkoshi]

So.

I am recaulking my tub again. The caulks I've used in the past were supposed to be mildew resistant. But no matter which caulk I've used, it's gotten ugly and mildewy in under a year. The mildew seems to grow from the inside out; it's not something that can be washed off.

So, I was thinking of using brown or black caulk this time. I'm not redoing the vertical corner seams because those parts still look fine. I'm only doing the horizontal seam along the top of the tub. The tub and surround are a very light tan color. White caulk would look better to begin with, especially in terms of matching the other caulk, but I'm hoping that brown or black will hide the mildew, and look better long-term.

I have a full tube of black caulk, a full tube of white, and a partial tube of brown. They are all the same brand - GE Silicone II Premium Waterproof Silicone (which is one of the brands I've used in the past).

The white one says:
Kitchen/Bath/Plumbing
3 hr Shower-Ready
5 yr mold-free product protection (ha! I think not)

The black & brown ones say:
Window/Door/Attic/Basement
3 hr Rain-Ready
Sun/Freeze-Proof; won't crack or crumble

All the other information listed on the tubes seems to indicate that they are actually the same product, except for the color. I think the different colors are just being marketed for different purposes, because most people use white or light colored caulks in the bathroom.

Sigh. When I saw the full tube of white (which I didn't recall having), it gave me a moment of indecision again. But I think black or brown will be the better choice after all.

Another thing to consider is that the white tube says "Use by 01/11" whereas the other 2 say "Use by 11/11". But the white one hasn't been opened, so I'm thinking it should still be fine, unless it has hardened in the tube.

What would you do?

Comments

Mold

[(Anonymous)]

I suspect taht you may have mold growing behind the tub and walls which may be impossable to completely stop without a complete renivation. Try removing as much of the old grout and calking as possible and clean with a strong bleach solution. After recalking clean the tub and walls often with bleach and keep the area dry as possible between useing the tub.
If that dosen't work, move to a dry northern or western climate, or stop bathing indoors.

Re: Mold

[darkoshi]

stop bathing indoors
LOL!

Mold

[(Anonymous)]

Do you have a bathroon exhaust fan and is it working correctly? Try leaving the nearest window open while bathing and during less humid weather. Keep it dry.
Using dark colored calking will only hide the mold and you'll be reminded less often to clean it. USE WHITE and a bleach solution to clean it often.

Re: Mold

[darkoshi]

I already used the brown caulk. Will see how it goes.

We squeegee the shower walls after every shower. I even use a sponge to dry off the caulk, after my showers. The bathroom has a window, which we open to get out the moisture. But the caulk still gets mildewy and discolored.

There is a ceiling exhaust fan, but it hasn't worked since I've had the house. I've thought about getting it replaced, but it seems problematic due to the bathroom only having a single switch to (apparently) control both the fan and the light. Would need extra work to put in separate wiring and switches for both.

Mold

[(Anonymous)]

Mold feeds on soap scum residue, not the caulk. If bleach dosen't work try a product called Acid Magic, a safe muriatic acid replacement. It can be purchased at most hardware stores where pool cleaning supplies are sold.