Whether you’re installing a new bathroom suite or resealing a current one, sealing should be a fairly straightforward task. Sealant can always freshen up a bathroom, especially if the previous sealant was looking old and worn. Not only does it freshen up your bathroom, but it can also prevent leaks and stop water from getting down the sides of the bath, which could lead to the growth of mold. In this article, we discuss the main reasons to seal your bath, how to remove old sealants and how to apply new sealants.
Why do you need to seal a bath?
The main reason why you should seal your bath is to prevent water from getting down the sides. Baths can contain large volumes of water which can easily escape by a leak or an overflow. From a build-up of mold to rotting floorboards and flooding, this trapped water that gets down the sides of your bathtub can cause severe damage, especially if left untreated.
How to remove old sealant
Before removing anything, make sure you are wearing safety gloves and safety glasses. To remove the old sealant, carefully cut it using a safety knife and, using a flat-headed screwdriver, gently scrape away the sealant. You can use your finger to rub off any remaining strands or use an old cloth with White Spirit – Turpentine to remove the strands. Following this process should result in a clear surface that is perfect for resealing.
How to seal a bath properly
1. Taping the edges:
Using some masking tape, mark out where you’re going to put the silicone. Work from the back corner of your bath and keep the tape at a minimum of 3mm from the wall to ensure you get a neat finish.
2. Preparing:
At this point, you should wear safety gear such as safety glasses and gloves. Cut the tip of the silicone at a 45-degree angle (or as close to as possible) and then apply the nozzle/head. After that, place the silicone into a caulking gun.
3. Sealing:
Getting as close as possible to the edge of the bath, apply the silicone by pressing the caulking trigger. Begin with the farthest corner, using a fluid, smooth movement. This will ensure that no new silicone is being touched. It should look like a C-shape, which can be seen in the image of the sealing direction.
4. Smoothing:
Using a sealant applicator, smooth and shape the sealant edge at an angle to ensure no germs or bacteria can get behind it. Not only will this make the final look more pleasant to the eye but it will also help water get back into the bath.
5. Waiting:
Sealant can take up to 24 hours to set so make sure to not use your bath until it’s dry. If you do use your bath before the setting process is complete, you could end up with bigger problems.
Overall, by following our guide, you should find your sealing/resealing journey pretty straightforward. However, if you have any concerns or potential problems, contact us to get the guidance and support you need.
Happy sealing!
