Which Caulk Is Most Mildew Resistant?

duckdown

Several months ago, I took on a couple of bathroom remodel jobs and in all, I got called back due to mildew on the caulk. One job, I used GE Max 5000 Kitchen and Bath, another DAP and another job still Phenoseal and they all mildewed.

I cleaned all surfaces prior to caulking with bleach and know that the cure time was achieved since the homeowners weren't even around (on vacation).

Two questions?

1. What caulk should I switch to?
2. What can I do to make this job better?

D.Foster

Mildew can be prevented when the homeowner CLEANS THEIR HOME.
Is it in the shower/tub area or sink/toilet area. Some clients need to know how to maintain what they purchase!

SLSTech

Besides the cleaning aspect - they need to run the vent during & after they shower

D.Foster

Yes dat too!!!

neolitic

Try "Polyseamseal Tub and Tile Ultra"
I like the way it guns and tools,
and the adhesion and mildewcide
are the best IMO.
This is from 25+ years of personal
observation, not some ad copy B/S.

AutumnWood Inc.

It depends on where the caulk is going, In a shower I would stay away from caulking as much as possible. If you had too, you might check at a tile supply like the Tile Shop. For around a sink or a counter I would think a standard silcone caulk would work......

Exterior: I pefer Solar Seal, your not suppose to use it inside through

neolitic

Caulk where ever dissimilar materials join.
Standard silicone sucks for mildew resistance.

AutumnWood Inc.

Ah... Caulking in a shower is a little different than around a sink.

Thanks for the info on where to caulk, I usually don't have to use it

duckdown

I know that this isn't the issue as the fans come on automatically. I have used Broan and Panasonic that are properly sized.

hlh541

latex is a food source for mold,try useing a urethane based caulk

TBFGhost

I have had good luck with DAP ALEX Ultra...has a mildewcide, it also guns and tools nice....It also flexes real well with movement...

naptown CR

There are silicones with bio ban and other latex products with bio ban that I have had good luck with. Hint do not use the silicone with bioban for a bedding material that will have no air flow to it as it will not cure had a real problem with a shower door once.

SealantEngineer

Try using Dow Corning 786 Mildew Resistant Sealant. Most of the stuff everyone else has listed is hardware store grade, which for the most part is garbage. This product should last you 10-20 years with out any problems.

The ingredient's that makes it resistant is formaldehydes..

The cheaper version of this product is called Dow Corning Tub Tile and Ceramic...

Splinter

LEXEL... not available in all states anymore, but it's a truly clear caulk, and seals excellent. Pain in the ass to work with, but with a little patience you'll get a good looking bead.

Lifestylebuilds

I agree with lexel....but much rather use a clear polyurethane..shrinks and contracts nicely. Plus water will not weaken it like silicone does. Silicone at most will last a couple of years.

djcg

The only silicone I ever use and haven't seen any problems with so far is GE Silicone II for kitchens and bathrooms. Claims to be mildew resistant once cured. So far I believe it.