If you don’t have a caulk removal tool handy, you can also use a utility or razor knife to loosen the caulk at one end. Aim to pull it up in 1 long strip. You can make an old caulking job easier to clean up by applying commercial caulk removers before scraping. If you do, make sure to check the product’s label to prevent any possible damage to your floors or toilet. [1] X Research source
Press a tissue around the base of the toilet to check for moisture. If you find a leak, remove the toilet and replace the wax ring before continuing. If any water or other liquid gets in the joint, do your best to dry it. If you can’t quite reach it, make sure to allow enough time for it to dry properly. Overnight should be sufficient. Caulking over liquid will trap it, which can cause damage to your flooring. Ensure the toilet is even and tight to the floor. If it moves, tighten the bolts or use a shim to straighten it out. Don’t use the caulk to secure the toilet to the floor if it’s loose or uneven.
Since most toilets have a round base, you’ll probably have to use several strips of tape to properly follow the curve. Tear up pieces a few inches long, and apply them to the floor, following the curve of the toilet’s base. [4] X Research source Alternatively, you can also buy masking tape that comes curved and is more flexible than typical tape. This will save you some time in taping up your floor.
It’s important to match the color of your caulk to your bathroom. White usually fits most styles, but you’ll still want to give this some thought. [5] X Research source
At the back of the body, you’ll find a metal release, usually shaped like a trigger. Push this forward and you’ll be able to pull back the plunger. You can then insert the caulk tube and push the plunger into the back of the tube.
Use the hand not holding the gun to press the tip of the caulk tube against the joint to ensure that the caulk is pushed into the joint. Pushing the caulk rather than pulling it along will make it more difficult to create a consistent seal. You may want to have a folded up piece of cardboard available nearby to lay the caulk gun onto if you need to stop for any reason. This will prevent caulk from dribbling onto your floors. [7] X Research source If you’re having trouble getting your caulk gun behind the toilet, try using caulk in a squeeze tube, which should allow you more flexibility.
If you’re worried about dirtying your hands or irritating your skin, you should wear gloves for this step. If you’re having trouble smoothing the caulk down with your finger, try pushing the bead line down with masking tape. Get it nice and smooth, then remove the tape before the caulk gets tacky. You should have a perfect caulk line without as much of a mess. [9] X Expert Source Art FrickeHome Renovation & Repair Specialist Expert Interview. 14 August 2020. You can also buy dedicated caulk finishing tools to clean up your seal, however this isn’t strictly necessary. [10] X Research source
If you choose fast-curing caulk, it will probably only need to cure for about 30 minutes. [14] X Expert Source Art FrickeHome Renovation & Repair Specialist Expert Interview. 14 August 2020.
