We Tiled The Bathroom Do We Grout Around The Tub Or Do We Caulk Around It ?

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Rena Chisholm Profile
Rena Chisholm answered
If you started your first row of tile butted against the top of the tub, then run a bead of Caulk around it. If there is a gap between the top of the tub and the tile on the wall, apply a thin layer of grout, let it dry overnight, then apply the bead of caulking over the top of the grout, (just around the tub).
PS, The grout and the caulk will mildew unless the water is always dried off after every shower, (assuming it is a shower/bathtub combo). But not to worry, plain old clorox bleach will remove the mildew from grout and caulk. I usually just put some in a spray bottle, open the window, turn on the exhaust fan, put a mask on, spray the mildew down and get the heck out of there quick as possible because the bleach makes me sick and it is not good to inhale it. Then close the door for a couple hours. Then go back in and rinse it down with plain water.
PSS, It is only necessary to allow the adhesive to dry for 24 hours before grouting. :) You are going to use Unsanded grout, right?
You can also pick up a grout sealer.
If you have any questions on the grouting process, leave me a message in the comment box.
PSSS, Your grout will not melt. LOL!
thanked the writer.
Anonymous
Anonymous commented
O.K. I'm assuming it's unscented grout but we do have another question pertaining to cutting the tile around the arch I'm concerned on how to cut the arch tiles (curves) any suggestions would be helpful and we really appreciate your help .
Rena Chisholm
Rena Chisholm commented
Sorry for the misprint. I meant to write UNSANDED grout, but my husband came in and interrupted me while I was typing. Sanded grout is preferred on floors and is harder so that it can withstand more abuse, but it is porous. Non sanded is a different texture, nonporous and best used in places where water will be present. Concerning the curved tile; I use a RotoZip purchased from Home Depot. It has an attachment for cutting circles and such. You may have to buy a tile bit for it, only about $6 for the bit. There are bits that come with it, but not one for tile. It also comes with drywall, metal and an all purpose disc for cutting tile. It's a small power tool and easier to manage. If I can help you in any other way, please feel free to give me a shout if you want to. Also, if you have any scrap tile left over, you can use it to practice on to get a feel for the RotoZip. I love mine, it is much easier for me to use than tile snips and makes a nice smooth edge. Wetting the tile down a bit while cutting is a good thing. Are you familiar with the grouting technique? If not, let me know. I will give you a few tips that will save you some headaches and ensure good results.
Rena Chisholm
Rena Chisholm commented
Also, if you go with the RotoZip, and use the cutting wheel for the curves, take the guard off so that you can see to get your curve just right.
annabelle moreno Profile
Caulk it - grout can melt over time
Anonymous Profile
Anonymous answered
You caulk around it because you do not want the moisture to get underneath your tiles. Good luck!

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