Bath/shower/basin edge sealant deterioration

Causes

Water damage, age

Listed under: Interior, sealants, fixtures and fittings, showers

Cause

Water damage, age

Repair

  • remove and replace sealant if possible

  • use a flexible silicone sealant specifically designed for the purpose

  • before applying the new sealant, ensure that the surfaces are free of the old sealant, clean and dry, with no water or soap present, and ensure that the room is well ventilated

  • use masking tape to achieve a clean finish

  • trim the nozzle of the applicator to achieve the correct bead width (see sealant instructions) and apply sealant in a continuous bead, working forwards. There should be good contact with both sides

  • use a moistened tool to push the silicone into the gap and achieve a neat finish. (Some people find an ice block stick with a rounded end is good for this.) This should be done reasonably quickly, before a skin forms on the sealant which can happen in around 10 minutes

  • carefully remove the masking tape, pulling it away from the sealant (not towards it) while the sealant is still wet

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