Drafts sealed and bathroom re-caulked before Calgary winter.

How often should bathroom caulk be replaced?

Every 3–5 years is a reasonable schedule in Calgary. The city's humidity swings — very dry winters followed by wetter summers — cause silicone to pull away from grout and tile faster than in milder climates. Visible cracking, gaps or mould growth are signs it needs attention sooner regardless of age.

What is the difference between silicone and latex caulk?

Silicone caulk is waterproof and flexible — the right choice for wet areas like tubs and showers, and for exterior applications exposed to freeze-thaw. Latex caulk is easier to apply and paint over, making it the right choice for dry interior trim and window surrounds. We use the correct type for each location.

Can you caulk over old caulk?

No. Applying new caulk over old failing caulk produces a joint that fails again quickly because the new material cannot bond to the old. The old caulk must be fully removed and the surface cleaned and dried before new caulk is applied. This is the step most homeowners skip — and why re-caulk jobs fail within a year.

What causes drafts around windows?

The most common causes are cracked or missing caulk at the exterior window frame, failed weatherstripping in the window sash, and gaps at the interior window trim that have opened over time. In older Calgary homes, settling can also open gaps at the frame-to-wall junction that were previously sealed.

How do I know if I need weatherstripping?

Close the door and hold a piece of paper against the door frame — if you can pull it out without resistance, the weatherstripping has compressed and lost its seal. Running your hand along door edges on a cold day and feeling for air is the quickest test. Visible daylight around a closed door is the most obvious sign.

Can you seal gaps from the outside?

Yes. Exterior caulking is a separate service from interior work and uses exterior-grade caulk rated for Alberta's freeze-thaw cycle. We seal gaps at window and door frames, where siding meets trim, and around exterior penetrations like vent pipes and electrical conduit entries.

How long does caulk take to cure?

Silicone caulk takes 24 hours to fully cure. The shower or tub should not be used for at least 24 hours after re-caulking. Latex caulk used on dry interior trim cures faster — typically 4–6 hours — and can be painted after 24 hours.

What if there is mould in the old caulk?

Mould in old bathroom caulk is common and not a reason to postpone the work. We remove the old caulk completely, treat the surface, and apply fresh mould-resistant silicone. Surface mould on the caulk itself is not a structural issue — it is a caulk maintenance issue that re-caulking resolves.

Can you caulk in winter?

Interior work — bathroom re-caulking and window trim sealing — can be done year-round without issue. Exterior caulk requires the surface to be above 4°C for proper adhesion, so exterior work is best done in late summer or fall before the cold arrives. We advise on timing when you book.

What is the difference between caulking and spray foam?

Caulk is used for gaps up to about 6mm where flexibility is needed — window frames, door trim, tub surrounds. Spray foam is used for larger gaps around pipes and rough framing where air sealing volume is the priority. We use caulk and weatherstripping for all our sealing work — we do not do spray foam insulation.