Re: Shower Question – October 2017

Hi Chris,

I have a frameless shower door held by two wall hinges (hinges are on the shower head side). I re-caulked the tub (due to some leakage at this exact spot), and all is better, but not “well”. I notice when I open the door, the caulk is starting to get pulled out (it’s been about 3 months). I will redo the caulk job, but was wondering if there was a trick to caulking between the door and wall where the door opens?

I’m just afraid water will get by and run down the wall side of the tub (causing interior water damage, mold, or damage to the ceiling of the floor below).

Here are some pictures which should show a little of what I was talking about. You can see the corner, and then the caulk that is being pulled up by the gasket when you open the door. My fear is that the caulk gets pulled out and then water seeps in the space created by the caulk getting pulled out.

I appreciate any thoughts you might have…

Dave

Hi Dave,

Judging by the photos, I would say that the caulking is due to be replaced. I normally wouldn’t recommend a frameless shower enclosure to be installed within a few inches from drywall. Frameless shower enclosures are not designed to be completely water tight. If you aren’t experiencing leaking now, that is great. If the silicone does pull away, that could lead to water beginning to escape.

Again, it would probably be a good idea to re-caulk this enclosure. You can also use additional plastic edge seals if you prefer that to silicone. Sometimes using the right shape will deflect more water back into the shower, reducing the need for more caulking.

Hope this helps,

-Chris