How to Remodel the Home for Elderly Parents

Posted on June 3, 2021 by admin

Whether your parents or your grandparents, as they age your elderly loved ones need a few home modifications to make the transition into their senior years safer and more comfortable. Continue reading to learn the top recommended home remodels and modifications for elderly and even disabled loved ones.

Indianapolis Home Remodeling Contractor 317-454-3612

Start With the Simple Stuff

There are little things around the house that can pose problems for or slow down your aging parents or grandparents. For instance, consider changing out your doorknobs to L-handles for easier gripping, grasping, and turning. Due to loss of dexterity and health conditions like arthritis, doorknobs and the twisting motion they require are sometimes too difficult to use for aging citizens. Another simple modification could be censored or automatic lighting so that your elderly loved ones do not have to fumble with light switches while also trying to use walkers, canes, wheelchairs, or grab bars.

Grab Bars and Handrails

As we age, we tend to lose our strength and mobility becomes more difficult. For this reason, it is highly recommended to install grab bars and handrails wherever necessary to assist your elderly loved ones as they get around the house. It is also recommended to put chairs or stools at the top and bottom of steps to allow them to take a rest after climbing or descending them.

Bathroom Modifications

The bathroom can be a dangerous place for your elderly loved one if it is not equipped for their safety. In addition to installing the proper grab bars and handrails for showers and baths, you should also consider putting a corner seat in the shower as well. Other inclusions could be shower want attachments and a nonslip bathmat.

Doorway Width and Light Switch Plates

In the case that your elderly loved one will use a walker or wheelchair, it is recommended to increase the width of all doorways to at least 36 inches. For wheelchairs in particular, is recommended to increase the door with to 48 inches. In addition to increasing doorway with, you might want to also consider lowering your light switch plates for easier access.

Pull Down Shelving

There is a very useful and even stylish addition is known as pull-down and pull-out shelving. This type of shelving system allows those in wheelchairs or those with mobility issues to easily access the higher shelves of cabinets in the kitchen and in the bathroom. Pull-down shelves are used for the higher up shelves, while pull-out shelving systems are used for the lower cabinet areas.

Slip-Free Applications for the Kitchen

In the kitchen, a lot of cooking and cleaning and walking in from the garage and outdoor areas takes place. For this reason, the kitchen is often a slippery area. One home modification that is very important for the aging community is slip mitigation. Consider installing low pile carpeting in the kitchen or even slip roof tile for a safer kitchen experience.

When you are ready to make these important home remodeling modifications to your home or your parent’s home, contact Restoration By L & B, LLC at 317-454-3612 for affordable home renovation services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve commercial clients, too.

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Are You Having Problems With Your Bathroom Exhaust Fan?

Posted on April 8, 2021 by admin

Could you imagine what your bathroom experience would be like without your exhaust fan? If you have a window, it wouldn’t necessarily be an issue; but for those who lack a bathroom window and have a faulty exhaust fan, the situation is far from pleasant. What’s worse is, a broken exhaust fan in an otherwise ventless bathroom could pose serious health and safety risks. If your bathroom exhaust fan is acting up, whether you have a window or not, it is in your best interest to resolve the malfunction before things like mold, mildew, and wet walls cost you.

Continue reading to learn what you need to know about bathroom exhaust fan breakdowns, and where to turn for trusted drywall and bathroom remodeling services if yours has already caused such structural damages.

Indianapolis Drywall and Painting 317-454-3612

The Risk Behind a Broken Bathroom Exhaust Fan

When a bathroom exhaust fan stops working, or begins to fail, the primary risk is moisture. Moisture is created every time someone takes a steamy shower or runs the hot water faucet. Without a properly functioning fan, this excessive condensation seeps into the walls and turns into water, quickly causing mildew development, and overtime, fungal and mold growth.

What’s worse is, often times mold development goes unnoticed for long periods of time because it is trapped inside the walls. It is important to always keep your eyes out for signs of mold development, including peeling paint, wet walls, and warped drywall. Even floorboards can become over-saturated with moisture and develop mold, which often presents itself in the form of warped or wet flooring. It is vital to have all moldy walls removed and replaced with clean, fresh drywall, and that all mold outbreaks have been remediated by a certified service provider.

Repair a Broken Exhaust Fan ASAP

If your bathroom exhaust fan is broken, keep your window cracked for a little while during and after every hot shower or bath to ensure that most moisture is expelled outside. If you do not have a window in your bathroom, you must have your broken exhaust fan repaired or replaced promptly, otherwise, you take on the risk of developing a mold outbreak in your home, which will cost you more in the long run compared to fan repair expenses. Placing a floor fan in your bathroom also helps abate moisture retention, but should only be relied on temporarily while waiting to repair your exhaust fan.

Are you considering a bathroom remodel? Do you need professional drywall work? Contact Restoration By L & B, LLC at 317-454-3612 for bathro o m remodeling services or drywall repair in Indianapolis, Indiana.

You Might Also Read:

How to Properly Maintain a Bathroom Exhaust Fan
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Master Bathroom Remodeling Hacks That are Actually Affordable

How to Increase Rental Income With 6 Renovations

Posted on February 18, 2021 by admin

Whether you are a real estate owner of a single family home or a massive, multi-unit housing complex, these six home remodeling renovations will have the most impact on your overall return on investment (ROI) by exponentially increasing your rental income.

Tenant Improvement and Remodeling Contractors 317-454-3612

Get More Rental Income Per Tenant With These 6 Renovations

❶ Paint

A fresh coat of paint is the easiest and most instantly gratifying method of increasing your rental income. New paint makes a property look fresh, and even cleaner. Furthermore, it can displace leftover smells from prior tenants, if any. In addition to a fresh paint job, be sure you are also addressing drywall damages. Dents, depressions, nicks, holes, and cracked joints should be repaired to add more value to your paint job.

❷ Flooring

One of the first things potential renters see is the flooring. Whether carpet, laminate, tile, or hardwood, floors are an important element for them. So, start your renovations with professional carpet cleaning or replacement, or with full-on flooring replacement. Floor cleaning and flooring replacement are two key renovations that can instantly make your rental property worth more.

❸ Broken Stuff

Your next point of interest is to repair anything that is broken. Whether it just came to light a few days ago, or has been lurking around your To-Do list for years, making important repairs to your property is an effective and proven method of adding more value to your renters. Thus, you can increase the rent based on your property’s amenities and overall value. From indoor and exterior lighting to bollard posts, driveways, appliances, drywall, and more, fixing what’s broken is a good starting point for increasing rental income.

❹ & ❺ Kitchens and Bathrooms

Although flooring is one the main elements of a property that a potential tenant will focus on initially, their next priorities are usually the bathrooms and the kitchen. Focus on these areas when planning your renovation budget so that you can earn the most return on investment for your rental properties. Consider minor and major remodels, from painting cabinets and replacing hardware, to installing new fixtures, converting tubs into spacious showers, buying new kitchen appliances, and similar changes. Simply talk to a licensed contractor to learn how to constructively consider a residential kitchen remodel or easy ways to remodel a master bath.

❻ Basement Conversion

If you have an unfinished basement in your rental property, you have a gold mine of opportunities to increase your rental income. By remodeling a basement, you are instantly and drastically raising the true market value of your rental property. You will get more money per month, plus be able to resell it for a higher price when the time comes! Attics and other areas work well for this type of space conversion ROI.

Preparing to Sell Your Home? Consider some home renovations that will sell your house at a higher price!

Indianapolis Home Remodeling and Commercial General Contractors

Call Restoration By L & B, LLC at 317-454-3612 for affordable home remodeling services in Central Indiana and its surrounding areas. Our Indianapolis general contractors provide a wide range of services for both commercial and residential properties, from general handyman services and home remodels to full-on renovations, additions, conversions, and more. Request an estimate, today!

5 Easy Ways to Remodel a Master Bath

Posted on July 9, 2020 by admin

Bathrooms are among the most frequently-visited rooms in a home. Whether to alleviate a full bladder, cleanse soiled hands, or relax in a hot tub, the bathroom is important for a home’s general comfort for many reasons. Aside from operative plumbing, décor and ambience can certainly influence the level of comfort you experience in your master bath.

Although new move-ins and outdated bathrooms might desperately need a makeover, not everyone has the time or the disposal income for a bathroom remodeling project. Fortunately, there are five fantastic methods any homeowner or renter can do to instantly update or upgrade the look of their master bath without all the hassle of construction and renovation costs!

Continue reading to learn five ways you can instantly transform your master bathroom within a minimal budget.

Indianapolis Bathroom Remodeling 317-454-3612

Paint the Walls and Cabinets

Sometimes a simple change of color can make all the difference in a small room like a master bath. If the cabinets are already painted, not stained, re-applying a fresh coat of paint can instantly make cabinets appear brand new. As for walls, a fresh coat of paint or a color change can dramatically transform a space without a hassle. Semi-gloss paints that include primers are perfect for bathrooms and some brands only require one-coat applications. You can purchase enough paint for your master bath as low as $50, depending on the brand and paint quality. Keep in mind that brighter colors can make bathrooms feel more spacious, while warmer colors will offer cozy ambiences.

Replace the Light Fixtures

Speaking of cozy or bright ambiences, depending on whatever you prefer for your master bath, lightening can play a large role in transforming the look and feel of a bathroom. If you have florescent lighting in your restroom, swap them out for something less dramatic like recess lightening. If you cannot afford to have recess or new lighting installed, simply change your lamp bulbs to a smaller wattage, or even an adjustable wattage. You can also purchase small counter lamps that look fashionable and add a transformation of light. You may also consider installing curtains on bathroom windows to add a cozier or homier feel; or removing them to add more natural light and space.

Upgrade Your Bath Towel Options

Hand towels and bath towels fade over time, and can look dull or boring. One fast and affordable way to change the entire look of your master bath is to replace your towels. Choose a new color or fresh pattern and swap out hand towels, rags, shower curtains, and bath towels for an instantaneous transformation!

Re-Caulk or Clean Waterproof Seals

The waterproof caulking around bathtubs and sinks can get moldy or deteriorate overtime. Re-caulking these areas will provide extra security against leaks, as well as, brighten up the look of your bathroom. Instead of re-caulking, you can apply a good bleach scrub-down to clean the seals and freshen up their look.

Replace Bathroom Fixtures

If you want to update the look of your bathroom to a more modern feel, simply replace the plumbing and decorative fixtures. Things like faucets, shower heads, shower rods, towel racks, sconces, doorknobs, and more can be replaced at a low cost in a short amount of time. You would be amazed to see how a bathroom can look entirely remodeled and updated with a simple fixture upgrade you can do yourself!

Indianapolis Bathroom Remodeling Contractors That Can Help

Call Restoration By L&B LLC at 317-454-3612 for Indianapolis bathroom remodeling services at competitive prices. Owner and general contractor, Lee Elliot, is happy to answer all your questions about home remodel planning, prices, and process. And don’t forget; we guarantee to BEAT any prices quoted by our competition!

How to Refinish Laminate Cabinets On Your Own

Posted on March 19, 2020 by admin

Many people assume laminate cabinets can’t be refinished, but this is far from the truth! There is no need to replace laminate cabinets because they are old or outdated. Instead, you can simply refinish them! Instantly brighten, modernize, and alter the look of your kitchen’s laminate cabinetry all within your budget. It is important to review the correct process for laminate cabinet refinishing in order to achieve the best possible results. For those uncomfortable with do-it-yourself handy work, there’s no need to worry; you can hire a professional contractor and still remain within budget!

Continue reading for a brief guideline to refinishing laminate kitchen cabinets, and who to call for professional general contractor work for kitchen remodeling in your town!

Indianapolis Kitchen and Bathroom Remodeling 317-454-3612

Laminate Kitchen Cabinets

If you are determined to refinish your kitchen laminate cabinets on your own, then good for you! Take a look at the guide below to learn some of the major components and key points for these particular projects. Be sure to prepare by first gathering all the necessary supplies and tools to get the job done right. These include:

⇢ Paint and Paint Primer (Water-Based)
⇢ Foam Rollers
⇢ Rolling Pans
⇢ Painter’s Tape
⇢ Sandpaper (240 & 150 Grit Sheets)
⇢ Old Bed Sheets or Drop Cloths
⇢ Disinfectant Spray
⇢ Clean Rags
⇢ Microfiber Cloth
⇢ Permanent Marker
⇢ Screwdriver

For an even more updated look, you can purchase and install new, more modern-looking cabinet handles. These are available for a variety of designs and prices at any hardware or home store. If any laminate is peeling or cracking, it will need to be replaced entirely. Do not proceed to refinish peeling o or cracked laminate cabinetry.

However, if it is only slightly peeling in one corner or so, you can simply sand the exposed area behind the laminate, and then re-glue it using a water-proof adhesive. Use masking tape to hold it in place while it dries. This works best for small areas and corners. Once you have accumulated all the tools and supplies you need, you are ready to get started.

How to Get Started:

First clean all of the cabinets. Dust them with the microfiber cloth to remove solids, and then follow with a thorough wipe down using the disinfectant spray. This provides stronger primer adhesion and ensures a cleaner smoother finish.

Using the screwdriver, remove each cabinet face and its handle while keeping track of where each one goes. Use the permanent marker to label each one so you will remember where to replace it later.

Place the cabinet faces on the drop cloths, making sure the edges remain exposed and accessible. Be sure the drop cloths cover enough surface area to protect the surrounding environment from paint.

Use the painter’s tape to line the inside edges of the cabinet faces to prevent paint drips. Take your time on this step to ensure accuracy.

Use the 240 grit sandpaper sheets to manually sand the cabinet faces. You may choose to use a handheld portable sander if you are familiar with its operation. Just be sure to not over-sand.

After sanding, use your microfiber cloth to wipe away the residual dust and sanding debris. Do this thoroughly and remove as much dust as possible.

Using your foam roller, apply a coat of water-based paint primer to each cabinet face. Allow this to dry completely, usually 8 to 12 hours depending on the brand.

Once the primer is applied and has dried completely, sand each cabinet face again using the 150 grit sandpaper. Remove excess sanding dust with your microfiber cloth afterwards.

Now repeat the last two steps.

Once both coats of primer are applied and have dried, it is time to apply your water-based paint of choice using your second foam roller. Be sure to use v-strokes during application to promote even paint marks and distribution.

Now repeat the last step.

Allow the cabinets to dry for at least 72 hours before reattaching hardware and reassembling them in their rightful place. This ensures that the paint has dried and hardened completely.

You may choose to hire a professional painting contractor instead of tackling this project on our own. If you are not familiar with handy work, and have never painted before, it may be the wisest choice. And you can still remain within a cost-effective budget when you hire professionals for the job.

✨ For those who are not experienced in construction, it is recommended to hire a local Indianapolis handyman to refinish your cabinets, safely and securely.

Indianapolis Kitchen Remodeling You Can Afford

Call Restoration By L&B LLC at 317-454-3612 for Indianapolis kitchen remodeling and handyman services for kitchens, basements, bathrooms, patios, and more. Owner and general contractor, Lee Elliot, is happy to answer all your questions about home renovation services. And don’t forget; we guarantee to BEAT any prices quoted by our competition!

Home Remodeling Contractors 317-454-3612

Laminate Cabinet Refinishing Tips

Posted on July 4, 2019 by admin

You might assume that laminate cabinets can’t be refinished, but this is far from the truth! There is no need to replace laminate cabinets because they are old or outdated. Instead, you can simply refinish them! Instantly brighten, modernize, and alter the look of your kitchen’s laminate cabinetry all within your budget. It is important to review the correct process for laminate cabinet refinishing in order to achieve the best possible results.

Continue reading to learn some helpful tips to get you started, including who to call when the job is too big to do on your own.

Indianapolis Kitchen Remodeling 317-454-3612

Laminate Kitchen Cabinets

⇒ Paint and Paint Primer (Water-Based)
⇒ Foam Rollers
⇒ Rolling Pans
⇒ Painter’s Tape
⇒ Sandpaper (240 & 150 Grit Sheets)
⇒ Old Bed Sheets or Drop Cloths
⇒ Disinfectant Spray
⇒ Clean Rags
⇒ Microfiber Cloth
⇒ Permanent Marker
⇒ Screwdriver

Cabinet Hardware Tips

A General Overview of the Process

Step 2, using the screwdriver, remove each cabinet face and its handle while keeping track of where each one goes. Use the permanent marker to label each one so you will remember where to replace it later.

Step 3, place the cabinet faces on the drop cloths, making sure the edges remain exposed and accessible. Be sure the drop cloths cover enough surface area to protect the surrounding environment from paint.

Step 4, use the painter’s tape to line the inside edges of the cabinet faces to prevent paint drips. Take your time on this step to ensure accuracy.

Step 5, use the 240 grit sandpaper sheets to manually sand the cabinet faces. You may choose to use a handheld portable sander if you are familiar with its operation. Just be sure to not over-sand.

Step 6, after sanding, use your microfiber cloth to wipe away the residual dust and sanding debris. Do this thoroughly and remove as much dust as possible.

Step 7, using your foam roller, apply a coat of water-based paint primer to each cabinet face. Allow this to dry completely, usually 8 to 12 hours depending on the brand.

Step 8, once the primer is applied and has dried completely, sand each cabinet face again using the 150 grit sandpaper. Remove excess sanding dust with your microfiber cloth afterwards.

Do steps 7 and 8 again.

Step 9, once both coats of primer are applied and have dried, it is time to apply your water-based paint of choice using your second foam roller. Be sure to use v-strokes during application to promote even paint marks and distribution.

Repeat step 9.

Last step, allow the cabinets to dry for at least 72 hours before reattaching hardware and reassembling them in their rightful place. This ensures that the paint has dried and hardened completely.

When the Job is Too Big…

Call Restoration By L&B LLC at 317-454-3612 for Indianapolis home remodeling and handyman services at competitive prices. Owner and general contractor, Lee Elliot, is happy to answer all your questions about home remodel planning, prices, and process. And don’t forget; we guarantee to BEAT any prices quoted by our competition!

Master Bathroom Remodeling Hacks That are Actually Affordable

Posted on April 17, 2019 by admin

Are you looking for a way to enhance or upgrade your master bathroom, but your budget is somewhat limited? Keep in mind, your master bath is one of the most-used rooms in your home, from relaxing spas and showers, to washing hands, checking your reflection, and of course, relieving yourself; so when it comes to comfort and convenience, try to treat yourself!

Fortunately, there are five fantastic methods any homeowner or renter can do to instantly update or upgrade the look of their master bath without all the hassle of construction and renovation costs! Continue reading to learn a few ways you can instantly transform your master bathroom within a minimal budget.

Bathroom Remodeling Contractors 317-454-3612

Paint the Walls and Cabinets

Replace the Lighting

Replace Hanging Towels

Re-Caulk or Clean Waterproof Seals

The waterproof caulking around bathtubs and sinks can get moldy or deteriorate overtime. Re-caulking these areas will provide extra security against leaks, as well as, brighten up the look of your room. Instead of re-caulking, you can apply a good bleach scrub-down to clean the seals and freshen up their look.

Replace Bathroom Fixtures

If you want to update the look of your washroom to a more modern feel, simply replace the plumbing and decorative fixtures. Things like faucets, shower heads, shower rods, towel racks, sconces, door knobs, and more can be replaced at a low cost in a short amount of time. You would be amazed to see how a bathroom can look entirely remodeled and updated with a simple fixture upgrade you can do yourself!

Indianapolis Home Remodeling and Conversions

Bathroom Modification Remodel Ideas for Disabled Loved Ones

Posted on November 14, 2018 by admin

When you share your home with a disabled relative or loved one, you want nothing more than to support their ongoing effort to live as independently as possible. One way you can ensure their comfort and safety is to enhance the accessibility of the bathroom. Continue reading to learn some recommended bathroom remodels that can help do just that.

Bathroom Remodeling Contractors 317-454-3612

Bathroom Remodels for Physical Disabilities

There are all sorts of modifications you can make to your home that can help assist your disabled loved one. From the kitchen and corridor, to the upper levels and outdoor living areas, home accessibility remodels are quite popular, and best of all, easily attainable. One of the most important rooms to remodel for disabled and handicapped individuals is the bathroom. After all, it is the one room we all use without exception.

When it comes to physical disability assistance remodels, it is important to entrust the project to a professional Indianapolis general contractor who can develop the perfect design plan for your disabled loved one’s needs. They can recommend a wide range of personalized accessibility improvements for your bathroom, from minor adjustments and additions, to structural strategies, retrofitting, and more.

Recommended Bathroom Modifications:

✔ Wheelchairs

Wheelchair access is a definite need if your disabled loved one is uses a wheelchair. Widening the doorway is essential for bathroom wheelchair access. It is important that the doorway and the room have enough space for the entire wheelchair to enter, exit, and turn around. Furthermore, you can have the sink and countertop lowered to wheelchair eye level for ease of access.

✔ Fixtures

There are a few fixtures that can help and protect your disabled loved one. First, you can install handrails next to the bathtub and the toilet to prevent slip and fall accidents, while also promoting more control and stability. In addition to handrails, you can also consider having no-slip mats and flooring installed for added traction, or even special faucets that check and regulate temperature levels.

✔ Vision

For those who have poor vision, it is recommended to install brighter lights, or painting the walls a brighter color, to improve their sight in the bathroom. You can also install textured tape against the walls and counters, and around the tub or shower, for added navigation. Hanging braille panels near doors can also help reveal their surroundings. It is suggested to label items they use often too. This can prevent unpleasant mix ups, like using soap as body lotion.

✔ Showers and Tubs

You can have a handicapped disabled access bathtub installed to help improve ease and access for your loved one. These tubs can either be retrofitted over your existing shower and bathtub, or you can have an entirely brand new one installed in place of your old one. There are also custom shower designs that include benches, handrails, temperature regulators, timers, and more, to enhance safety and accessibility for disabled individuals while they bathe.

Indianapolis Home Remodeling and Conversions

Residential and Commercial Remodeling
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How to Make a Commercial Bathroom the Most Hygienic

Posted on October 18, 2018 by admin

A public restroom can be custom designed to offer and promote superior hygienic bathroom environments and practices. Continue reading to learn some helpful ideas behind making commercial bathrooms cleaner and more hygienic. With these tips, you can potentially improve your business’s traffic, revenues, morale, and more!

Commercial Bathroom Remodeling 317-454-3612

What’s Important

Money is never wasted on a commercial bathroom remodeling project. However, there are several things to consider when it comes to enhancing hygiene in commercial bathrooms. Everything from the fixtures to the floors can be altered to increase the hygiene level for any business or commercial property.

When customers, clients, or guests use a public restroom, they are immediately on the defense. This is mostly due to the fact that public bathrooms don’t have a great track record when it comes to sanitation and cleanliness. But, an effective combination of strategic planning and modern technology can eliminate, or at least soften, the anxiety behind using public restrooms for good.

Hygiene Tips for Commercial Restrooms

Because public restrooms are primarily used and intended to eliminate waste, whether that be by toilet, trash can, or sink, the presence of germs and bacteria are imminent. Mold, mildew, bacteria, germs, and viruses are all common contaminants found in bathrooms, public or not. These matters can make a person very sick and can even cause serious health damage and consequences.

Keeping a restroom clean is essential to our health, safety, and well-being. For a property that offers public restrooms, this is even more important. There are always ways to make a commercial bathroom cleaner, but there are also specific practices that will help keep a restroom clean and hygienic.

Simple Tips to Promote a Clean Public Restroom:

✤ Install Hands-Free Faucets
✤ Install Hands-Free Soap Dispensers
✤ Install Hands-Free Paper Towel Dispensers
✤ For-Go Paper Towels and Replace with Hands-Free Hand Dryers
✤ Have Plumbing Pipes Inspected for Leaks Regularly
✤ Install Toilets with Automatic Flush Sensors
✤ Install Modern Ventilation System to Reduce Moisture Accumulation
✤ Use Lid-Free Trash Cans
✤ Hire a Custodial Staff for Daily Cleaning

Where to Get Started With Your Renovations

If you are planning a bathroom remodel for your commercial building or business, consider some of these upgrades to enhance the performance and efficiency, and most importantly, make the most out of your investment. Contact a professional general contractor for accurate information regarding Indianapolis bathroom remodeling services, so that you will know exactly where to start.

Indianapolis Bathroom Remodeling Contractors

Residential and Commercial Remodeling
317-454-3612

Call Restoration By L&B LLC at 317-454-3612 for professional bathroom remodeling in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and general contractor, Lee Elliot, is happy to answer all your questions about commercial remodel planning, prices, and process. And don’t forget; we guarantee to BEAT any prices quoted by our competition! Request a written estimate, today!

Quick Guide to Caulk Removal Around the Bathtub

Posted on August 15, 2018 by admin

The good news is that you are ready to re-caulk an area of your home that has been bothering you for quite some time. The bad news is that you have to first remove the old caulk around the tub before you can apply the new stuff, which can take some time. Now the better news is that the bad news isn’t so bad; removing old caulk can be done all on your own in just a short series of easy steps!

Continue reading to review a quick guide to removing old caulk around the bathtub, including what you should do if the job proves to be too big for you to manage.

Home Remodeling and Handyman Services 317-454-3612

What You Will Need

All of the supplies and tools you will need to remove caulk can be found at any local home improvement or hardware store. They are all reasonably priced too, so you don’t have to worry about spending outside of your budget to complete your caulking project. Here is what you will need:

🛁 Tub-and-Tile Caulk
🛁 Caulk Remover Product
🛁 Needle-Nose Pliers
🛁 Utility Knife
🛁 Putty Knife (or use the hook-end of a 5-in-1 painter’s tool)
🛁 Trash Bin
🛁 Work Gloves
🛁 Paint Brush (or foam brush)
🛁 Non-Ammoniated Bath Cleaner
🛁 Bleach
🛁 Water
🛁 Plastic Scrubbing Pad
🛁 Cloth or Rag

How to Get Started

The first step is to soften the old caulk with your caulk remover product. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions before applying the caulk remover to the old caulk.

Once the old caulk is soft, use your utility knife to slice through it, directly. Be sure the blade is fresh. Most of the old caulk should fall off easily.

Special Note: If there are extra layers of old caulk, or it is just very thick, you may need to pull it free from the joint using needle-nose pliers.

After you have removed most of the old caulk, use your putty knife or painter’s tool to rake away the rest of the remaining chunks from the joint.

With the old caulk gone, you are now ready to cleanse and disinfect the surface area. You can use a non-ammoniated bath cleaner to remove soap scum and more. Do not use cleaner with ammonia because it can produce dangerous toxic fumes when combined with bleach.

After you have removed soap scum and dirt, check for mildew. If you see mold or mildew, combine 1/3 cup of bleach with 1 gallon of water, and use your paint brush to apply it directly to the affected surface.

After you apply the bleach solution, use your plastic scrubbing pad to remove any mold and mildew present. Next, rinse the area with water and dry it thoroughly with a clean rag.

Now you are ready to apply your new caulk!

What To Do if the Job is Too Big

Residential and Commercial Remodeling
317-454-3612

Call Restoration By L&B LLC at 317-454-3612 for Indianapolis home handyman services at competitive prices. Owner and general contractor, Lee Elliot, is happy to answer all your questions about home remodel planning, prices, and process. And don’t forget; we guarantee to BEAT any prices quoted by our competition! Request a written estimate, today.