Can anyone recommend a good caulk? - DIY Chatroom

lhhandyman · 05-30-2009, 10:54 PM

I just installed a new Durastall shower enclosure kit which included the tray, upper frame, 3 walls and door. All parts are made of a non-porus PVC type of plastic. I understand that once everything is together any water that sprays inside should run down the walls and stay within the tray. Just for peace of mind I would feel better caulking the seams between the walls and the tray & the upper frame and new tile surround. The real problem I have is finding a caulk that will stick to the shower enclusure. I've gone to both HD and Lowes and everything they recommend commercially doesn't stick. It literally just rubs off even after it's cured. On recommendation i've tried:

Phenoseal Vinyl Adhesive Caulk
GE Silicone 2 Bath & Kitchen
GE Silicone 1 Bath & Kitchen
DAP Kwik Seal Plus K&B
DAP Alex Plus Acrylic Latex Caulk Plus Silicone

I'm afraid if I use an exterior caulk it may led to mildew growth. Someone suggested it might be a release agent on the moulds but I've scrubbed them with everything.

Can anyone recommend a caulk or adhesive that might actually stick?

Plumber101 · 05-30-2009, 11:41 PM

It is all we use.....

You can get it at most Ace and Do it Best stores

lhhandyman · 05-30-2009, 11:49 PM

Ok so it will stick to PVC securely? I'm almost positive the enclosure is made of PVC type. How is the mildew resistance?

Plumber101 · 05-30-2009, 11:55 PM

If it is going into a shower use a silicone base caulk either clear or colored to your needs and you will be fine. We also will use the painting blue tape and mask off the area to be caulked so caulk doesn't go everywhere. About 3/16 from both side of the corner or seam.

My company tried this product about 2 yrs ago and have never used anything else. It doesn't shink and sticks to anything.

jordy3738 · 05-30-2009, 11:55 PM

There is a grade of silicon caulk that is for windows that does not really dry but stays flexible, I can recommend not using that grade on your shower.

I just cannot remember what it is called.

lhhandyman · 05-31-2009, 12:06 AM

Silicone? That's my problem. Silicone will not stick to the plastic...only the tiles...grout...etc. Do you still recommend using the Big Stretch around the tray and plastic wall?

Plumber101 · 05-31-2009, 12:12 AM

Yes silicone based caulk.

cabinetman · 06-01-2009, 07:22 AM

I've been using Polyseamseal Adhesive Caulk since the early 70's, and wouldn't use anything else. Good for interior or exterior use and sticks to anything. Easy to apply and clean up, and takes paint well...silicone doesn't.