Your bathroom is everything from a sanctuary to a family room. However, protecting this moisture-rich environment and prioritising hygiene means using the correct bathroom sealant to prevent leaks and mould.
Why use sealant in a bathroom?
Bathroom sealant creates a watertight seal over gaps around your sink, bathtub, and shower tray. It’s an effective way to prevent leaks and flooding and creates a polished and professional finish.
In addition, it prevents water from pooling in out-of-sight places and causing problems with mould and damp.
What to look for in a bathroom sealant
Your bathroom sealant should be silicone-based, so choose a product with an application guide such as ct1.com/product-applications/sealing-bath-guide-beginners to get the job right the first time.
Silicone sealant has a range of benefits for a moisture-rich environment like the bathroom. Not only is it highly water-repellent, but its ability to bond with different materials ensures a tight, waterproof seal anywhere. Silicone-based sealants resist temperature extremes and won’t expand and contract, enhancing durability.
If mould has been an issue, choose a sealant with a fungicide to stop the problem in its tracks.
Getting the best out of your bathroom sealant
Once you’ve chosen your bathroom sealant, you need to apply it according to the directions for the best results. Start by cleaning your surfaces thoroughly, ensuring they’re contaminant-free. If you need to remove old sealant, cut into it and gently remove it with the blade of a flat-head screwdriver.
Most sealants are sold in cartridges, so snip the nozzle to the desired bead size. Mask off the area and then apply the mastic using a purpose-made gun. Pull the trigger gently and move the bead smoothly and consistently. Finally, wet your finger and run it along the sealant or use a profiling tool to get the required finish.
You’ll need to allow your sealant to bond and cure, so allow 24 hours for it to harden properly so it won’t fail and peel away.
These steps will help you get the most out of your bathroom sealant, achieve a professional finish, and prevent moisture-related problems.
