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There are a lot of innovative ways to lay down the ideal bead, but it doesn’t matter until you get yourself the right caulk.

Sounds a little too much? Well, it can seem like that if you are a first-timer and have very little knowledge about caulking. The problem is, with the market being flooded by various cheap options, you can’t buy the best caulk relying on luck alone. 

So, to help you, we have compiled a list of the 9 best options currently available on the market. Our experts have researched and tested each of these recommendations quite extensively. And based on the results, we have provided detailed reviews for each of them. 

Also, to make things a bit more interesting, we have included a buyer’s guide towards the end of this article. Without further ado, let’s jump right in! 

Top Caulk For Your Showers and Bathtubs

1. Dap 18001

Founded in 1865, Dap is one of the oldest and reliable manufacturers of adhesives, sealants, and caulks. So, it should come as no surprise to see that the 18001 all-purpose caulk features on our list. This product is known for its top-notch flexibility and adhesion due to its acrylic-based formula.

Why Did We Like It?

Coming from a brand that has been operating for over 155 years now, it understandably delivers results beyond our expectations. For instance, it has an application time of only 10 minutes, which gives it the edge over other products. 

Thanks to its acrylic-based formula, you will find that it is both durable and resistant to mildew growth. And its outstanding adhesion makes it all the more valuable to DIYers. What’s more, its mild odor and water-resistant properties prove ideal for interior use, meaning you can use it in the bathroom without any hassle. 

Lastly, it comes with detailed instructions that are easy to understand which makes it ideal for first-time users. Naturally, it is one of the most highly rated caulk options available right now.  

What Could’ve Been Better?

This model is one of the best options you will find on the market because of its short application time and outstanding adhesion. However, we found it challenging to squeeze it out from the tube container. So, you may have a hard time laying down big beads. 

2. Gorilla 8060002

The next item on our list is another highly efficient product from Gorilla, a brand that has consistently delivered top-grade glues, adhesives, and sealants for over 2 decades. Featuring a flexible formula, the Gorilla 8060002 is an all-round sealant that consumers can apply across their property. 

Why Did We Like It?

In our opinion, this product is not like any other caulk/sealant. This is because it is made of 100% silicon, which makes it perfect for showers, bathtubs, doors, windows, and kitchens. So, you can apply it to seal cracks or gaps on a wide variety of surfaces.

One of the key highlights of this sealant is that it doesn’t turn yellow, crack or shrink with time (all signs of deterioration). Furthermore, it is resistant to elements like mildew and mold and has an application time of around 30 minutes. Sounds impressive, doesn’t it? Well, there’s a lot more. 

No need to squeeze it out of the tube; you can apply it with a caulking gun quite effortlessly. Additionally, this premium-quality sealer has a budget-friendly price tag, making it one of the top choices for customers.

What Could’ve Been Better?

We did not come across any significant drawbacks while testing this sealer. The only gripe we have against this product is that it has a strong odor, which smells like vinegar. Having said that, there is no need to worry as it doesn’t compromise on output. 

3. ALEX PLUS 18110

Next up, we have the 18110 acrylic latex caulk from ALEX PLUS, a sub-brand of DAP, which does not need any introduction. The product, however, deserves all your attention as it is one of the few options on the list that has a lifespan of 35 years.

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Why Did We Like It?

There are a lot of things that we loved about this caulk; however, the thing that hooked us right from the start was its multi-surface adhesion. This allows you to apply it on various surfaces with ease. Plus, it doesn’t discolor the paint, which is a bonus if you ask us.

Apart from this, it delivers long-lasting, highly durable, and waterproof seals which you can rely on for years to come. Meaning, it is suitable for both exterior and interior applications. And did we mention that it is mildew and mold resistant as well?

Also, you would be pleased to know that it dries in under 30 minutes. So, it is very easy to use; you can conveniently squeeze it out or use it with a caulking gun as per your convenience. Furthermore, it is backed by a 35-year warranty, which is something you do not get with other options. 

What Could’ve Been Better?

Honestly, it was difficult for us to find flaws with this product. However, if we have to nit-pick, we would say that the color is a lot lighter than expected (the package says slate grey, but it was more of light grey). Apart from that, you won’t face performance issues. 

4. Flex Shot ‎FSH8C

Flex Shot, from the house of Flex Seal Products, brings you yet another durable and practical product that will not disappoint. Thanks to its liquid rubber formula that expands and contracts, the FSH8C caulk meets all your needs by sealing everything. If you want to know more, read the following section.

Why Did We Like It?

The Flex Shot ‎FSH8C comes loaded with outstanding features, but its main USP is its liquid rubber formula. It allows the sealant to contract and expand to fill holes and cracks. Moreover, there is no need for a caulking gun; pushing the trigger nozzle is enough to get the desired output. 

Now, it doesn’t drip, thereby allowing you to lay down flawless beads without creating a mess. It is also highly durable and is a 100% waterproof sealer that doesn’t crack or shrink, making it ideal for bathtubs, showers, and toilet repairs. 

What’s more, it dries within 20 minutes, which is great. But especially pleasing is its affordable price tag which ensures that this sealant/caulk is the go-to option for many customers. 

What Could’ve Been Better?

It is undoubtedly one of the most reasonably priced and effective caulks on this list. However, it has a very strong odor, which is almost unbearable. So, kindly keep the doors and windows of your room open, for ventilation, when applying it.

5. Red Devil 0405

The 0405 siliconized adhesive caulk is extremely affordable and suitable for use on kitchen and bathroom surfaces, which makes professional repairs look like a walk in a park. Featuring exceptional adhesion, this product is capable of offering top-grade protection against mold and moisture. Hence, it is an ideal choice for DIYers. 

Why Did We Like It?

Made using an advanced siliconized formula, the Red Devil 0405 is highly adhesive and flexible to stand the test of time. The watertight seal sports a unique satin finish that looks very good on bathroom fixtures. Plus, it is water and moisture-resistant that protects your home from mildew and mold. 

Be it fiberglass, metal, marble, or ceramic tiles, this caulker adheres to a broad spectrum of surfaces, including sinks, bathtubs, and countertops. Long story short, you can apply it anywhere without any hassle. Also, it is odorless, which gives it the edge over products in a similar price range. 

Moving on, it is available in 3 pleasant colors: white, clear, and biscuit to complement your bath fixtures in style. So, all things considered, we can safely say that it exceeds our expectations by leaps and bounds.

What Could’ve Been Better?

It does a decent job for most parts, however, while testing, we noticed that it is quite challenging to squeeze it out of the tube. Having said that, we are sure most users won’t mind the slight inconvenience given the affordable price of this product.

6. GE SEALANTS M90007

We are midway through our recommendations, and here is another high-quality product from a very reliable brand that you should consider. Backed by a lifetime guarantee, the M90007 sealant from the GE SEALANTS brand ensures long-lasting durability and top-quality results. So, let’s dig a little deeper.

Why Did We Like It?

Thanks to its silicone-based formula, it offers top-notch protection against water damage, thereby delivering a robust seal in areas with moisture and humidity. Plus, its mold-free protection makes it resistant to annoying mildew and mold growth.  

Besides, its superior adhesion, its top-grade flexibility also deserves mention as it makes the seal durable and long-lasting. And due to its 50% joint movement feature, it is impervious to shrinking or cracking caused by temperature fluctuations. In other words, this product dries in under half an hour and becomes ready for liquid exposure pretty quickly. 

Apart from this, it doesn’t discolor metals, which we absolutely loved. In addition, it has a lifetime warranty, which clearly shows that the manufacturers have faith in their product. 

What Could’ve Been Better?

Despite having such handy qualities, this caulker also has its fair share of drawbacks. Firstly, it is challenging to squeeze it out, which makes it difficult to apply on a large area. Other than that, it has a strong odor, which is something most DIYers are not a fan of.

7. GE Sealants MAKB405AD

For over 70 years, GE SEALANTS has devoted itself to producing some of the most innovative sealants and caulks on the market. On that note, allow us to introduce you to the MAKB405AD Max Shield Ultra sealant from the brand. Featuring mold-free protection, it might surprise you with its output.

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Why Did We Like It?

We were quite impressed with what this product brought to the table. For instance, it is easy to paint on it without worrying about color fading or cracking. Plus, its mildew and mold-resistant nature make it perfect for areas that are prone to moisture and humidity, such as sinks, showers, and bathtubs.

Apart from this, it is highly durable, so you don’t have to worry about shrinking as it can stretch over 500%, taking flexibility to a whole new level. On top of that, the sealant comes with tri-shield protection, making it waterproof. Unsurprisingly, it is very easy to clean and all you need is warm water and soap. 

Another thing that we liked in particular is the fact that it is odorless. Long story short, the MAKB405AD Max Shield Ultra sealant is for people looking for professional and long-lasting results at an affordable price. 

What Could’ve Been Better?

For the most part, we were quite satisfied with its performance. But it is slightly thicker than expected, which makes it very difficult to squeeze it out of the tube. Other than that, this product is a bang for your buck! 

8. Loctite 2138420

Loctite is a US-based brand that has been manufacturing and supplying quality sealants and adhesives for over 50 years. Unsurprisingly, the latest 2138420 model is no different. Featuring a robust adhesive strength, this product is perfect for mending loose tiles and setting backsplashes.

Why Did We Like It?

One of the best things about this product is its adhesive strength, which makes it ideal for use on a range of surfaces, including wood and aluminum. Moreover, its robust and reliable watertight seal allows you to use it on bathtubs, kitchens, and sinks to fix cracks and holes.

We found that it is very easy to apply and dries quickly without any odor, which is something all DIYers would appreciate. Rest assured, the brand’s innovation and premium-quality ingredients deliver fantastic output, making it highly popular. 

Now, users worried about mildew and mold will love its mildewcide formula which protects the cured caulk from these unpleasant growths. Additionally, you can clean it up easily just by using soap and warm water. 

What Could’ve Been Better?

The adhesive strength of this product was unquestionable. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said as far as flexibility is considered. During our period of usage, we noticed that it started to crack after a few days of applying it.

9. Colorfast CA-T-XXX-SND

Colorfast is a very popular American brand that manufactures a wide range of masonry products, taking into account DIYers’ requirements. Made using siliconized acrylic latex, the CA-T-XXX-SND caulk is capable of competing with some of the top-quality products available out there. So, let us find out why.

 

Why Did We Like It?

Be it coffee, dove gray, or birch, this exceptional product from Colorfast is available in a wide range of color options to blend in with bathroom fixtures. Plus, it dries in an hour and has a cure time of roughly 5 days, based on the temperature and the density of the applications.

We particularly liked its mildew and mold-resistant feature, which does an exceptional job in keeping away those unpleasant growths. Furthermore, you can apply it on various kitchen and bathroom surfaces as per your requirements. 

Another good thing about this product is that it has a mild odor; not to mention its easy application and 2 year shelf life. Added to that, it is highly flexible, which ensures longevity and top-notch durability, making it one of the best-selling options on the market. 

What Could’ve Been Better?

We were not satisfied with its dove grey color; we thought it was quite off and resembled a darker shade of grey. Also, the tube’s quality is not great and it started leaking from the side, which was quite disappointing.

Caulk For Your Showers and Bathtubs Buyer’s Guide

Knowing just the 9 best recommendations and a few pros and cons is simply not enough information, especially when you are on the quest to buy the best caulk. There are a lot of other factors that come into play that you need to be aware of. 

So, to make things easier for you, we have explained all the important factors in this section. We are pretty confident that after reading this, you will be able to buy the right caulk based on your needs. 

1. Color Options

Caulks are available in a wide range of colors, and those that come with the label ‘paintable’ allow you to paint over them. Similarly, products having the description ‘clear’ color are more versatile as they work well on various surfaces, including bathtubs and showers. So, we would recommend going with a clear or white color.  

2. Materials Used

In general, caulks are made of either siliconized latex, otherwise known as acrylic, or pure silicone. Both offer strong adhesion and are compatible with a broad spectrum of surfaces such as tiles, stone, porcelain. 

Having said that, acrylic caulks are easier to apply, but they are not the best when it comes to moisture resistance. On the other hand, caulks made of pure silicone are way more durable and flexible, resisting water and moisture to prevent cracking or shrinking. 

We would recommend going with a silicone-based caulk as it is better than acrylic/latex-based caulk in almost all aspects. However, keep in mind that it is slightly expensive.     

3. Mold And Mildew Protection

This is one of the most important factors that you should keep in mind while buying a caulk. Always choose a product that contains mildewcides because it reduces mold and mildew growth, thereby protecting against stains. So, before buying, you should always check the box to ensure that it is resistant to mold and mildew growth.

4. Packaging

When it comes to packaging, there are mainly 2 options: large cartridges or tubes. The ones that come in larger cartridges go well with caulk guns; suitable for large-scale jobs that require precision. 

On the other hand, tubes come in handy when you are working on a smaller surface as they can be dispensed simply by squeezing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How Often Should You Caulk The Bathtub?

You should caulk your bathtub once every 5 years. Having said that, it mostly depends on how often you use your bathtub. 

2. Can You Caulk Over Old Caulk?

No, you must not. Instead, you should remove the old caulk to apply the new one. Doing so, provides a tighter seal and makes it impervious to mold and mildew stains in the future. 

3. How To Make Your Shower Caulk-Ready?

You should follow the instructions that come with the product. Furthermore, you should remove the old fillers entirely before applying the latest coating. This ensures that the surface is completely dry; otherwise, you risk encountering mildew and mold growth.

Verdict

Before caulking, you must understand that preparing the surface holds the key. You have to ensure that the area is dry and the temperature is above 40 degrees Fahrenheit, so that the seal dries up quickly.

On that note, we have reached the end of this article, and we hope that it helps you choose the right product. Before signing off, we want to let you in on our favorites from this list. 

The best overall is the Dap 18001, primarily because of its short application time and mild odor. Closely following it is the Gorilla 8060002 as it doesn’t shrink over time and offers excellent value for money. 

Other than that, if you are looking for an option that is highly adhesive, we certainly recommend going with the ALEX PLUS 18110.

So, that’s all for now. Until next time, bye! 

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