Curing Caulk in Shower Stall

aprilskitchen · 01-02-2012, 06:12 PM

I have replaced the caulk in my custom tiled-in shower stall, specifically where the floor meets the walls. I used Polyblend brand; I had the impression this is a good quality caulk, appropriate for the purpose. Also it should match my antique white grout. I am concerned a bit since I found that Home Depot sells this brand; I originally got it from a local tile shop. Does this mean it is a crappy product? Due to the size of the crevice, and its depth, it is curing slowly. I am trying to hurry it up. After it was still soft after a few days, I am using a space heater directed at the seam. After 6 days (website says a day should be enough) it is still soft enough to show the impression of my fingernail. It has skinned over. The opinion has been voiced that the heater will slow down the curing. What do I do??????????

JazMan · 01-02-2012, 10:37 PM

I bet the reason it's not drying is because the deck mud is wet. Most showers are not built correctly causing a. the grout/caulk to mold and/or crack. b. makes a proper repair more difficult cuz the deck mud and often the wall substrate are wet or damp resulting in the problem you're having.

You may have to wait longer or better yet remove the caulk so it'll dry faster. Even then it can take a long time depending on how wet the substrate it.

Jaz

aprilskitchen · 01-03-2012, 02:09 AM

I forgot to mention. The shower is a nine year old installation.

**oh'mike** · 01-03-2012, 06:50 AM

I'm going to post a link to building a shower pan Building a shower pan with pre-sloped mortar bed, liner and curb.

This should help you understand what might be causing the moisture that is keeping the caulk from drying--

If the liner is installed incorrectly (or the drain)the deck mud (base for the floor tile) might be soaking in water that can not make it to the drain.---Mike---