• Caulk can provide an attractive and protective seal around tiles in a bathroom.Tile wall image by Pontus Edenberg from Fotolia.com
  
  Although they can add a nice touch to a bathroom, if you have tiles in your shower, there is a good chance that at some point you will have to re-caulk them. Caulk is a flexible compound used to seal gaps between tiles that helps prevent moisture from getting between or behind them. When applied correctly, caulk can provide an eye-catching protective seam that is not only functional, but looks attractive.
  
  

Remove Old Caulk

• To ensure that the caulk bead is smooth and even, remove all old caulk before you begin. Depending on the type of caulk that was used, you may need a pair of needle-nosed pliers, a razor blade, putty knife and even a hair dryer. If the old caulk is hard (water based), try to remove it with a pair of pliers. A hair dryer can heat the old caulk and make it softer so it is easier to remove. If it is a softer caulk (silicone based), use a razor blade to cut the old caulk and then pry it out with a putty knife or flat-headed screwdriver.
  
  

Clean The Surface

• Clean the surface area before applying the new caulk. Use a mild detergent, water and a soft-bristle brush to clean away soap scum and mildew. After the area has dried, use an alcohol-based product to remove any remaining caulk and wipe dry.
  
  

Remove Mildew

• Once the old caulk is removed, fill a mixture of bleach and warm water in a spray bottle and spray along the seam-line. Wipe the area clean with a damp towel or sponge. Allow the area to completely dry before you begin caulking. You may speed up the drying process by using the hair dryer.
  
  

Ventilate the Area

• Remember that you are working in a small confined space. Some chemicals can cause breathing problems or skin and eye irritation. Make sure to ventilate the area before you begin, and wear protective eyewear and gloves.
  
  

Selecting the Caulk

• Make sure the caulk you select is right for the job. There are several kinds of caulk, and not all of them are suitable for areas that receive moisture. Make sure the caulk is made for use in the bathroom and is also mildew-resistant. Although caulk is typically used in a caulk gun, you may wish to consider using a squeeze tube of caulk, which some people seem to find easier to use.