When should I call a tradie instead of DIY?

Call a licensed tradie if the job is outside your skill level, involves regulated work (electrical, gas, plumbing past the tap), or you're unsure about safety.

Plumbing · Bathroom

Reseal Around a Bath

Q: How much does a tradie charge for reseal around a bath?

Estimated tradie cost: $150–$250.

Mouldy or peeling silicone needs to come out completely. Score both edges with a sharp blade, pull out the bead, clean with mineral spirits, then apply fresh mould-resistant silicone in one smooth pass.

Likely issue

Failed silicone sealant

DIY difficulty

2/5

Estimated DIY cost

$15–$20

Estimated tradie cost

$150–$250

Tools required

Utility knife
Silicone gun
Smoothing tool
Masking tape

Materials required

Mould-resistant silicone$14

Step-by-step instructions

Fill the bath with water before sealing so the joint sets under load.
Mouldy or peeling silicone needs to come out completely. Score both edges with a sharp blade, pull out the bead, clean with mineral spirits, then apply fresh mould-resistant silicone in one smooth pass.

Safety warnings

Wear appropriate PPE (gloves, safety glasses), isolate power or water where relevant, and stop work if anything looks unsafe or unfamiliar.

When to call a tradie

Call a licensed tradie if the work is outside the scope of this guide, involves regulated trades (electrical, gas, structural, waterproofing), or if you discover hidden damage. A professional will typically charge $150–$250.

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