IS9 Finding: Missing caulk along tub/shower floor line in the _______________.
Recommendation: Make certain that finish floor is secured down flat to the underlayment, and then provide a continuous bead of caulking to tub/shower floor line for a watertight seal.
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Comments:
The area at the edge of the floor and tub/shower is a high water area and the joint in this area is prone to water infiltration. Once the water gets under the flooring, it can lead to delamination of the floor finish material and, worse, could lead to decay of the subflooring material and potentially some of the structural members. Sometimes this can be seen from under the home in the substructural crawl space.
If the caulking along the shower/tub is missing it is a very good idea to make sure that some is added.
If cracks or deterioration appear over time to the caulking, this should be repaired.
Tips:
1. Do NOT add more caulking to the old caulking. The new will not last very long and will not bond well to the old caulking.
2. Remove all of the old caulking, clean the area well, and add new caulking along the edges.
Notes:
This should also be done inside the tub at all intersections at at the base of some types of faucets where water can potentially get behind the wall.
Derik Bruhn, Clark County Washington
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