Using grout as backer for caulk?

So in my attempt to be handy instead of handsome I re-caulked the edge of my tub since it was about that time, but instead of using a backer rod, I had some leftover grout that I used to fill in the fairly large gap between the tiles and tub (about 1/4 in). I then caulked over after a day or so and then I thought that was that. Now I have a covert leak where water is somehow getting past the tileboard around the edge of my tub and soaking the back and dripping water into my basement. At first I thought it was my spout since it was old and replaced it, but the leak was still there. I thought it may have been the grout on the tiles breaking so I covered it was plastic wrap to test, but the leak is still there. My supply pipes are still in good condition so no leaks there. Pretty sure it's the caulking and grout backer, but before I go cutting it out, I guess I want some validation because I really don't want to lol. submitted by /u/bb_2005 [link] [comments]

Apr 29, 2025 - 16:30

So in my attempt to be handy instead of handsome I re-caulked the edge of my tub since it was about that time, but instead of using a backer rod, I had some leftover grout that I used to fill in the fairly large gap between the tiles and tub (about 1/4 in). I then caulked over after a day or so and then I thought that was that.

Now I have a covert leak where water is somehow getting past the tileboard around the edge of my tub and soaking the back and dripping water into my basement.

At first I thought it was my spout since it was old and replaced it, but the leak was still there. I thought it may have been the grout on the tiles breaking so I covered it was plastic wrap to test, but the leak is still there. My supply pipes are still in good condition so no leaks there.

Pretty sure it's the caulking and grout backer, but before I go cutting it out, I guess I want some validation because I really don't want to lol.

submitted by /u/bb_2005
[link] [comments]