Silicone or latex caulk for bathrooms?

Always use 100% silicone in wet areas like tubs and showers. Latex caulk will eventually fail in constant water exposure.

Why can't I paint silicone caulk?

Paint cannot adhere to silicone's smooth, non-porous surface. Use paintable acrylic latex caulk where paint coverage is needed.

Silicone Caulk

Adhesives & Sealants

Sealants

Budget: $4-$6 (basic clear or white) | Mid-range: $6-$10 (kitchen & bath with mold resistance) | Premium: $10-$18 (specialty or commercial grade)

Silicone Caulk: Waterproof Sealant for Bathrooms & Kitchens (2026)

Prepared by Lumberama's Building Materials Team

|Last updated May 25, 2026|Sources & methodology

Silicone caulk is a flexible, waterproof sealant used primarily in wet areas like bathrooms and kitchens. 100% silicone creates a permanently flexible, mold-resistant seal around tubs, showers, sinks, and countertops. It adheres to non-porous surfaces like tile, glass, and metal where latex caulk will not bond well.

Key Features

100% waterproof seal; Permanently flexible (won't crack); Mold and mildew resistant formulas; Adheres to non-porous surfaces; Clear
white
and color-matched options

Specifications

Type: 100% silicone

acetoxy or neutral cure | Colors: clear

white

almond

black

custom | Tube: 2.8 oz squeeze

10.1 oz cartridge | Cure: 24-48 hours | Temperature: -60°F to 400°F | Movement: +/- 50%

Applications

Bathtub and shower sealing; Sink and countertop perimeter; Window and door exterior sealing; Glass and mirror installation; Plumbing fixture sealing

Installation Overview

Remove old caulk with caulk removal tool. Clean surfaces with rubbing alcohol. Apply painter's tape on both sides of joint for clean lines. Cut cartridge tip at 45° angle. Apply steady bead. Smooth with wet finger or caulk tool. Remove tape immediately. Allow 24-48 hours to fully cure.

Pros & Cons

Pros

✓ Completely waterproof; Stays flexible permanently; Resists mold and mildew; Excellent on non-porous surfaces

Cons

✗ Cannot be painted over; Strong odor during application (acetoxy); Difficult to tool smoothly for beginners; Must remove completely before reapplication

Top Brands

GE Silicone

DAP

Gorilla

Code Requirements

Must meet ASTM C920 for building sealant applications. Kitchen and bath silicone should contain antimicrobial additives. Must be compatible with substrate materials.

Buying Tips

Use 100% silicone (not siliconized latex) for all wet area applications; Apply painter's tape along both sides for clean, professional lines; GE Silicone II is the industry standard for kitchen and bath sealing