A properly sealed shower tray is essential to prevent water damage and maintain the integrity of your bathroom. Over time, the sealant around your shower tray may deteriorate, leading to leaks and potential structural issues. In this guide, we will walk you through the process of sealing a shower tray, including how to apply shower tray sealant, how to silicone a shower tray, and how to remove old sealant from a shower tray.
- Gather Your Tools and Materials:
Before you begin, make sure you have the following tools and materials on hand:
- Shower tray sealant
- Caulking gun
- Utility knife or scraper
- Sandpaper
- Isopropyl alcohol or acetone
- Clean rags
- Masking tape
- Remove Old Sealant:
If there is old sealant around your shower tray, it’s crucial to remove it completely. Use a utility knife or scraper to carefully cut and peel away the old sealant. Be cautious not to damage the shower tray or tiles. After removing the majority of the sealant, use sandpaper to smooth out any remaining residue. Clean the area with isopropyl alcohol or acetone to ensure a clean surface for the new sealant to adhere to.
- Prepare the Area:
Mask off the areas surrounding the shower tray with masking tape to protect them from accidental sealant application. This step will also help you achieve clean, straight lines when applying the new sealant.
- Cut the Nozzle:
Cut the nozzle of your shower tray sealant tube at a 45-degree angle. The size of the hole should be slightly smaller than the gap you want to fill. Start with a smaller hole and enlarge it if necessary, as you can always make it bigger, but you can’t make it smaller.
- Apply the Sealant:
Load the sealant tube into a caulking gun and squeeze the trigger to apply a steady and even bead of sealant along the joint between the shower tray and the tiles or wall. Keep the pressure consistent for a smooth application. Work in small sections, approximately 12-18 inches at a time, to ensure you have enough time to shape and smooth the sealant before it starts to set.
- Smooth and Shape:
Dip your finger in soapy water or use a specialized silicone tool to smooth and shape the sealant. This will create a neat finish and ensure a watertight seal. Be sure to remove the masking tape immediately after smoothing each section to avoid creating jagged edges.
- Clean Up:
Wipe away any excess sealant with a clean rag before it dries. If you accidentally get sealant on your tiles or shower tray, use a small amount of isopropyl alcohol or acetone to clean it up while it’s still wet.
- Let It Cure:
Allow the sealant to cure for the recommended time specified on the product packaging. This typically takes around 24 hours, but it’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific sealant you’re using.
- Test for Leaks:
Once the sealant has cured, test for leaks by running water in the shower. Check for any signs of water seepage or damage. If everything looks good, you’ve successfully sealed your shower tray.
In conclusion, sealing a shower tray is a crucial maintenance task that can help prevent water damage and keep your bathroom in excellent condition. By following these steps on how to apply shower tray sealant, how to silicone a shower tray, and how to remove old sealant from a shower tray, you can ensure a watertight seal that will protect your bathroom for years to come. Regular maintenance and inspections will help you catch any issues early and prevent costly repairs down the line.
Speak to our team
If you would like to know more about choosing sealants for bathroom application, do not hesitate to contact our professional team. We provide top quality sealants throughout the UK including big name brands.
To speak with our team simply call 01708 525 866 or email info@sealantsupplies.co.uk and our team will be in touch as soon as possible.
