Caulk keeps water from penetrating the joints of the surround as well as the faucet hardware.
Tile surrounds require caulk wherever two different surfaces meet. The gaps between adjacent walls, the floor and the tub and around the fixtures. Grout applied in these areas does not usually hold up. Silicone caulk is difficult to work with, but the longevity of the stuff is unbeatable. Silicone caulk Masking tape Solvent for caulk Safety Precautions Follow proper procedures for handling solvents.