caulk around toilet turning yellow

If you have sealant around your sink or bathtub that is starting to look yellowed or dingy, you can easily clean it up with a mixture of vinegar and baking soda. Aim to pull it up in 1 long strip. To fix this issue, replace the wax seal and re-caulk the toilet base. As stated, remember that caulk does not bond to a wet surface, so even if your surface was clean and dry when you initially applied your caulking, water may be able to seep under caulking that has not fully cured. This will make the layer whiter. Caulk is relatively inexpensive, so it's smart to buy $5 caulk instead of $2.50. Loosen the bolts at the base of the toilet first. Contact Mr. Rooter Plumbing for Help Fixing a Toilet Leaking from . Leaks under the tub are often found in the same way. You dont want to have such a messy look take away from the bathrooms elegance. Simply mix up a paste using 1 cup of white vinegar and 2-3 teaspoons of baking soda, and then rub it over the sealant. This is a bigger issue if the sealant is also being used as an adhesive to bond two different substrates for structural purposes. We've added a "Necessary cookies only" option to the cookie consent popup, Tub re-glazed and re-caulked, drippy residue from caulking. By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy. Make sure it is tight and the toilet does not wobble when you push it. However, it is important to make sure that you completely remove it from the surface before applying any new silicone sealant. Alternatively, you can also buy masking tape that comes curved and is more flexible than typical tape. Then you can use another piece of painters tape to tape around the toilet so that there will be a nice even caulking joint around the toilet. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. This article was co-authored by Art Fricke. Caulking around your tub is a relatively simple process, but after the job is done, a full bathtub will tend to pull away from the wall or tiles due to the added weight. Do this by turning off the water supply, removing the toilet, taking out the wax ring, and replacing it with a brand-new alternative. Micah Montoya Feb 26, 2019 at 17:09 1 Sun light? Quad 12-Pack 10-oz Yellow 634 Paintable Solvent Caulk. This is arguably the single most important reason. The degradation can become so significant it can lead to the sealant chalking and cracking. Are you still thinking of why does white caulk turns yellow? If any water or other liquid gets in the joint, do your best to dry it. Apart from removing yellow stains, this will prevent mold or mildew development. You may be able to temporarily extend the life of the caulking by cleaning it with bleach or another type of disinfectant, but it is likely that you will eventually need to replace it. RELATED: The Best Caulks for the Bathroom. I made a thick soup for winter and by accident left it on the fire for too long. Why do many companies reject expired SSL certificates as bugs in bug bounties? Clear caulk masks stains for longer, but it turns yellow faster. It is helpful to start in a corner and apply a single bead that runs about half the length of the crack you are trying to fill. It could be due to a chemical reaction between the caulk and the porcelain of the toilet, or it could be that the caulk is simply old and needs to be replaced. For DIY installers it may be tempting to skip it. Any good concoctions out there? why is there crusty brownish-yellow crud on floor around the base of my toilet? The acidic nature of vinegar helps to break down stains and dirt, making it ideal for use as a pretreating solution or as an additive to a standard wash cycle. After being exposed to the elements, white caulk often turns an unattractive shade of grayish-yellow. Mix these ingredients and apply the formulation to the caulk. Best silicone cleaning hack ever. ! If it isn't leaking, use the toilet for a couple of weeks, then pry off the bolt caps and retighten the nuts. The difference between the phonemes /p/ and /b/ in Japanese, Replacing broken pins/legs on a DIP IC package. To do this, two screws run along the base of the toilet. Another reason could be that the caulk was not given enough time to cure before it was exposed to water. If you paint the caulk, it will be easier to clean or repaint when needed. The application of caulk to the toilet prevents this from happening, and the bathroom is healthier as a result. Moisture or other things may have entered inside it, preventing the tiles from staying on a level surface. We use a particular thin-set or adhesive product in the tiles of the backing wall. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/77\/Caulk-Around-a-Toilet-Step-1-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Caulk-Around-a-Toilet-Step-1-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/77\/Caulk-Around-a-Toilet-Step-1-Version-2.jpg\/aid8941801-v4-728px-Caulk-Around-a-Toilet-Step-1-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":317,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":501,"licensing":"

License: Creative Commons<\/a>
\n<\/p>


\n<\/p><\/div>"}, {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/30\/Caulk-Around-a-Toilet-Step-2-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Caulk-Around-a-Toilet-Step-2-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/30\/Caulk-Around-a-Toilet-Step-2-Version-2.jpg\/aid8941801-v4-728px-Caulk-Around-a-Toilet-Step-2-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":306,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":485,"licensing":"

License: Creative Commons<\/a>
\n<\/p>


\n<\/p><\/div>"}, {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/0b\/Caulk-Around-a-Toilet-Step-3-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Caulk-Around-a-Toilet-Step-3-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/0b\/Caulk-Around-a-Toilet-Step-3-Version-2.jpg\/aid8941801-v4-728px-Caulk-Around-a-Toilet-Step-3-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":306,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":485,"licensing":"

License: Creative Commons<\/a>
\n<\/p>


\n<\/p><\/div>"}, {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/23\/Caulk-Around-a-Toilet-Step-4-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Caulk-Around-a-Toilet-Step-4-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/23\/Caulk-Around-a-Toilet-Step-4-Version-2.jpg\/aid8941801-v4-728px-Caulk-Around-a-Toilet-Step-4-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":306,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":485,"licensing":"

License: Creative Commons<\/a>
\n<\/p>


\n<\/p><\/div>"}, {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f3\/Caulk-Around-a-Toilet-Step-5-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Caulk-Around-a-Toilet-Step-5-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/f\/f3\/Caulk-Around-a-Toilet-Step-5-Version-2.jpg\/aid8941801-v4-728px-Caulk-Around-a-Toilet-Step-5-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":306,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":485,"licensing":"

License: Creative Commons<\/a>
\n<\/p>


\n<\/p><\/div>"}, {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/88\/Caulk-Around-a-Toilet-Step-6-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Caulk-Around-a-Toilet-Step-6-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/8\/88\/Caulk-Around-a-Toilet-Step-6-Version-2.jpg\/aid8941801-v4-728px-Caulk-Around-a-Toilet-Step-6-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":347,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":549,"licensing":"

License: Creative Commons<\/a>
\n<\/p>


\n<\/p><\/div>"}, {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/0e\/Caulk-Around-a-Toilet-Step-7-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Caulk-Around-a-Toilet-Step-7-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/0e\/Caulk-Around-a-Toilet-Step-7-Version-2.jpg\/aid8941801-v4-728px-Caulk-Around-a-Toilet-Step-7-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":306,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":485,"licensing":"

License: Creative Commons<\/a>
\n<\/p>


\n<\/p><\/div>"}, {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/ec\/Caulk-Around-a-Toilet-Step-8-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Caulk-Around-a-Toilet-Step-8-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/ec\/Caulk-Around-a-Toilet-Step-8-Version-2.jpg\/aid8941801-v4-728px-Caulk-Around-a-Toilet-Step-8-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":332,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":525,"licensing":"

License: Creative Commons<\/a>
\n<\/p>


\n<\/p><\/div>"}. Gently scrub the silicone using soapy water. Caulk shouldappear seamlesswhile keeping your walls, windows, floors, and ceilings adjacent to showers, tubs, and toilets safe from the excess moisture that is typical in a bathroom. It can be reversed by exposing the silicone to daylight, but over time it will eventually yellow. If it turns yellow again there is an underlying problem. White vinegar is an effective way to brighten the appearance of white fabrics. The problem is likely the kind of caulking that you are using. This is a problem because the sealant is advertised as being clear, and when it turns yellow it is not only visible, but it also can affect the aesthetic of the kitchen or bathroom. Then apply a second bead from the opposite end that will meet the first bead in the middle. Connect and share knowledge within a single location that is structured and easy to search. shower pan and toilet protects the subfloor from water that may seep between fixture and flooring. We have not used the shower in 3 years. Could be backing the tile is on. This type of caulk is typically more expensive than others, but the extra money will save you the problems that come with an improper seal. Moen makes top-class bathroom and kitchen faucets along with other products. Tip If you are confused, consult with a professional plumber to solve the problem soonest. The vast majority of leaks are small and dont spread out onto the bathroom floor, but instead soak into the underlying structure. Another reason why caulk might turn yellow is if it is not properly mixed before application. By using our site, you agree to our. Here are the steps you want to follow to make your silicone seal super white again. It is better to call for a professional plumber to let him inspect the situation and apply the best solution. Make it completely dry. Even the back of some tile can leach. It causes moisture to settle along the caulk causing it to turn brown or yellow. I am Clyde Mitchell and I actually write and run the site. They have a multi-purpose formula and can create a waterproof seal. However, you may sometimes be Kohler Ladena Vs. Caxton Sink: Which One To Pick? Spray Foam. Sealant tape is another fantastic alternative to the caulk for your toilet. Put a paper towel on the spots where you dont need to apply the cleaner, such as bathtubs or flooring. Try bleech, otherwise rip outand redo. DAP caulk is water based, so until it dries it can cause rust if there are steel nails or brads underneath it. Once complete, check to see if the stain is removed. Step 3 Apart from ensuring a more durable seal, the paint will keep the caulk as white as possible. Just apply either of these with an old toothbrush and scrub vigorously. IS THERE ANY OTHER CLEANER I CAN USE? Caulk is used to fill in gaps and cracks around your home, and it can be applied to a variety of different surfaces. If the caulk around the toilet is turning brown, this means the wax ring is damaged or leaking. Just mix together 1 cup of vinegar and 2-3 teaspoons of baking soda, and use a damp rag to apply it to the sealant. 100% silicone guaranteed not to yellow. If youre worried about dirtying your hands or irritating your skin, you should wear gloves for this step. Is your bathroom fully closed? If you are looking to save money on your bathroom caulking, then silicone caulk is the way to go. Share. Toilet InstallationDIY or Hire a Professional? Thanks for contributing an answer to Home Improvement Stack Exchange! If it moves, tighten the bolts or use a shim to straighten it out. After years of exposure to water and humidity, clear silicone can begin to yellow and blacken. You can choose either white or clear caulk to put around the base of your toilet. After taking down the old tile around the tub, if the wall is not damaged, does the wall. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. You will have to take your time during this process to ensure it goes in smoothly. Now, grab a small bottle and add bleach and water inside the container. Step 1 Sweep the area with a broom or vacuum cleaner to remove loose dirt and debris. It could be that the caulk was not applied properly in the first place, that it is old and needs to be replaced, or that something has come into contact with it that has caused it to change color. Caulk (both latex and silicone blends) will turn yellow if not painted. Bolts are usually used to secure the toilet base to the floor, but if the floor is uneven, the toilet can rock back and forth. If you need your bead to be a bit wider . In general, though, you can expect caulk to be fully dry in about two weeks. 2. The application of caulk to the toilet prevents this from happening, and the bathroom is healthier as a result. Learn More Here. The caulk around toilet can turn yellow due to several reasons. Tightening the bolts beyond a certain point is a risky approach that threatens to crack the porcelain. The thinset or adhesive used. (https://youtu.be/YKCXp8kNeaQ). To cure caulk, you need to let it dry for at least 24 hours before you use the shower or tub. Although there is potential for a fine, discovery is unlikely. PoleCat Registered Joined Sep 2, 2009 1,988 Posts Unlock expert answers by supporting wikiHow, https://www.lowes.com/n/how-to/how-to-caulk, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=92-1dxH9dks, http://www.home-repair-central.com/caulking-around-a-toilet-base.html, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vv6t_14kao. Step 2 Scrub the silicone with the soapy water. Video of the Day Step 2 Pour 3 1/2 cups warm water into a clean, empty spray bottle. Site design / logo 2023 Stack Exchange Inc; user contributions licensed under CC BY-SA. This causes discoloration. Yes, vinegar is safe to use on machines made using natural rubber seals and parts constructed from ethylene-propylene, silicone, fluorocarbon, virgin Teflon, and butyl synthetic rubber seals. Can I tell police to wait and call a lawyer when served with a search warrant? So, why does white caulk turn yellow? However, its important to use oxygen bleach rather than chlorine bleach, as it is just as effective but gentler on the caulk and on any members of your household who suffer from asthma or allergies. After you are fully satisfied with how the toilet is set up, you can begin to re-caulk the toilet base. In most parts of the United States, it is a requirement of building code to caulk around toilet bases. Brands are off-topic, but best to get a quality tub and tile/shower. Clear caulk yellowing after 2 months Hi everyone. Caulk is quick and easy to clean up. If you do, make sure to check the products label to prevent any possible damage to your floors or toilet. Dont use the caulk to secure the toilet to the floor if its loose or uneven. To white caulk around a toilet, use 1 gallon of water and 1/4 cup of bleach. Its important to keep your caulk looking its best, and bleaching it is a great way to do that. To subscribe to this RSS feed, copy and paste this URL into your RSS reader. Another possibility is that the caulk was not allowed to dry properly before being exposed to water or humidity, which can also cause it to turn yellow. I made a thick soup for winter and by accident left it on the fire for too long. IT IS IN GOOD CONDITION OTHER THAN THE FACT IT'S TURNING YELLOW AGAIN. Worse, clear caulk will turn yellow over time due to exposure to sunlight and heat. Another way is to use a putty knife because it slides smoothly while removing caulk. But it can happen. Why is the caulk around the toilet turning brown? This will prevent caulk from dribbling onto your floors. Hello! Easy Toilet Tips is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. What sort of strategies would a medieval military use against a fantasy giant? It is a nice practice to clean the silicone surface after 2-3 months using warm soapy water. Wipe the surfaces with a damp cloth, and then dry them with a dry cloth. It only takes a minute to sign up. Does your bathtub silicone caulk have turned yellow? Now my soup pot is basically ruined! Silicone formulas (like GE Advanced Silicone caulk, available on Amazon) provide a stronger seal against moisture, but latex tends to be easier to work with. I never use the white unless its paintable silicone that Ill be painting over. Depending on the depth of the joint, the temperature, and the humidity, the drying time may be shorter or longer. RELATED: Toilet InstallationDIY or Hire a Professional? If you find a leak, remove the toilet and replace the wax ring before continuing. (Solved). You may want to add extra caulking than average when the applied area is highly exposed to moisture. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. Need t The caulk alone will become dirty and have yellow stains within a short period. Although its not necessarily a sign that the caulk is defective, there are a few reasons why this may be occurring. BT1 is a universal adhesive created with bathroom sealant applications in mind. Just make sure it doesnt clean up with water! This can be due to intentional design, or due to factors like mold, dirt, extreme temperatures, and excess moisture. Once painted it should stay nice and white and can be easily cleaned. The quality of your silicone caulk plays a key role in perfect sealant. Helping You to Do It Yourself! Youll want to choose a product that is labeled for bathroom use or something similar to indicate that it is waterproof and has been formulated to keep your project safe from bacteria, mold, and mildew. The toilet will often settle after several uses. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. Gorilla Glue supposedly has a new one. By clicking Post Your Answer, you agree to our terms of service, privacy policy and cookie policy. Copyright 2023 Acton Media Inc. All rights reserved. You Can use a putty knife but keep the blade fairly flat to the floor not to gouge your flooring! Bleach will attack most polymers. The Fora platform includes forum software by XenForo. Add 1/4 cup baking soda and 2 tablespoons each of white vinegar and ammonia. Having the silicone caulk set up around the base of the toilet helps prevent leaks and/or moisture from getting through. Also, keep in mind that caulk will not bond to a wet surface, so make sure that your area of work is clean and dry before applying the caulk. If, after 15-20 minutes, the caulk has not formed a skin, it is most likely expired and will not fully cure. Just make sure it is 100% silicone. Unlike most other bathroom sealants, BT1 will NEVER turn yellow over time. Wait for a few hours before continuing. You can set up a bathroom fan to provide appropriate ventilation inside your bathroom. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. 8. Turn the water supply back on and flush the toilet to test for leaks. Are you still facing this problem even after implementing the solution we have mentioned? Maintain the pressure you have on the handle, keeping the caulk right at the tip of the tube, while you line it up with the intended crevice. You will need them to re-install the toilet. The contractor did a crap job with the clear silicone caulking in a few areas, so I scraped it out and re-caulked the area. A caulk gun allows you to easily manage the flow of the caulk and will lead to better-looking results. Why do small African island nations perform better than African continental nations, considering democracy and human development? How to Remove Silicone Caulk: An Expert Guide, with Tricks. The same seal that supposedly prevents a leak from being discovered is actually beneficial in that it prevents external water from seeping under the toilet. Step 3 Cover any areas around the clear silicone, such as flooring or a bathtub, with paper towel. After ensuring that your painters tape is neatly applied, gently squeeze your caulking gun until a small amount of caulk begins to come out. While you can use a tube of caulk without a caulk gun, it is a long and tedious process that can easily be avoided with the purchase of a quality caulk gun. THE CAULKING AROUND MY BATH TUB IS TURNING YELLOW, I HAVE TRIED BLEACH, TILEX, VIM, AND SEVERAL OTHER HOUSEHOLD CLEANERS, I HAVE ALSO REPLACED IT AND IT TURNS YELLOW AGAIN. Then, you'll need to place masking tape on the floor around the joint so you get a straight seal. Good luck. In many peoples view, a clean, white caulk line provides a neat, professional finish. In terms of functionality, there is no vast difference between while and clear caulk. Others may choose clear if the toilet isn't white or a perfect match. YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/user/roslynnyHandyman Dino Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dino.pinch.7#DinoPinch Twitter: https://twitter.com/dinopinch@dinopinch Google+ https://plus.google.com/109791231119891562750/postsThe_Handyman_Zone Store: https://shop.spreadshirt.com/handyman/#The_Handyman_Zone Instagram https://instagram.com/dino_the_pinch/Buy Cool T-Shirt: https://shop.spreadshirt.com/handyman/Adulting 101: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcq-S2ZayyFbM8E7jHKVi7w/feedHot n' Handy Heather: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3PcZBVZCEELJEPwG8gyr-gWeasel \u0026 Ferret Stuff https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGoYhMxrJC5T4zT0-PKtQ6A Copyright 2023 Acton Media Inc. All rights reserved. Read on to learn how to avoid commonpitfalls and get great tips that will have you caulking the bathroom like an expert. The size of the caulk also matters; it should be thin enough to form a nice, tight seal without leaving a messy or sloppy look. Does your bathroom have an increased temperature than other spaces of your house? If the caulk around the toilet is turning brown, this means the wax ring is damaged or leaking. This discoloration is caused by exposure to rust and the formation . You can use a good anti-mould cleaner or white vinegar. We use cookies to make wikiHow great. White caulk tends to show off dust and grime faster than clear caulk. Good luck! Once you do this, you can re-caulk the toilet and it will be good to go. Art Fricke is a home renovation and repair specialist and the owner of Art Tile & Renovation based in Austin, Texas. As nice as it is to be able to clean everything easily with water, that silicone just dont hold up anywhere near as good as the old style silicone that you have to clean up with lacquer thinner. For the best results, allow at least 24 hours for the caulking to cure after application before using your bathroom. The counter top is mainly white, so I want to rip it all out. link to Kohler Ladena Vs. Caxton Sink: Which One To Pick? It was transparent to begin with. If aesthetics is a consideration, try using darker caulk colors for outdoor purposes. Caulk prevents a fouling area. For instance the wall where the gap is that you are filling. The most common reason is due to the presence of mold or mildew. Caulking can harden up quickly, but it is very susceptible to manipulation and damage until it is completely cured. If recaulking, be sure to use a product like polyseamseal, which will not yellow. 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. How do I wash pillows to remove the smell of smoke? Over the last 7 years, I have been blogging about home improvement and yes, I own ReliefInBath.com Another possibility is that the caulk was not allowed to dry properly before being exposed to water or humidity, which can also cause it to turn yellow. Some have a preference for white to match the color of the toilet, for a seamless look. It may be tempting to simply caulk over your old, cracked caulking, but this would be a big mistake. Avoid doing it. If your caulk has changed colors and youre not sure why, its best to consult a professional to find out the cause and how to fix it. To remove mold from your caulking, you can use either a small cup of vinegar or a paste of 1-part water to 1-part baking soda. This is because the paint doesnt get much light, so the chromophores remain in the paint coat and cast a light to dark yellow tint across the surface. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. If youre trying to clean off old sealant from around your bathroom or kitchen, a vinegar and baking soda paste is a great way to do it! Motsenbocker's Lift Off 41145 Silicone Caulk Remover. Its important to match the color of your caulk to your bathroom. According to Structure Tech, some people believe that not caulking a toilet to the floor can help you identify a leak.These clients say that caulking around the base of the toilet would trap water from a leaking toilet, causing damage below and around the toilet since it has no place to leak onto the floor. If the toilet is already in place before grouting, . If you choose fast-curing caulk, it will probably only need to cure for about 30 minutes. It is better to replace the seal and get a new high-quality 100% white silicone caulk. White usually fits most styles, but youll still want to give this some thought. Save my name and email in this browser for the next time I comment. . Though white caulk can create a strong waterproof seal, everything has a tolerance level. Firat time posting here. The best solution for yellow and caulking is spraying it with bleach water mix and putting saran wrap over top and letting it sit until its white again. Expert advice from Bob Vila, the most trusted name in home improvement, home remodeling, home repair, and DIY. Without caulk, the leaking water would flow out freely and be noticed right away, the theory goes. Keeping the bathroom temperature at a moderate level is important. It is also possible for the water to get through and start damaging the flooring. Or something else? This is because they can react with each other. Then, it is good to check out the under-tile condition of the backing wall. Fortunately, replacing caulk is usually a quick and easy job! Any hacks to help me clean the burnt pot? Since these accessories are highly exposed to moisture or increased temperature, adding a thick white paint is necessary. Almost three years later and my caulk is still white. The goal is to get to the wax ring, which is set between the toilet and the drain hole. Learn More Here. They have outstanding adhesion power too. You need to clean it off regularly to keep the upper of the seal fresh and dust-free. You should have a perfect caulk line without as much of a mess. They perhaps dont understand the versatile and durable performance of modern caulking products.