Knowledge base Publish date: 12/07/2023

How do I seal a shower enclosure with silicone?

How do I seal a shower enclosure with silicone?

Sealing a shower enclosure is a topic that comes up again and again during renovations. And although it would seem to be quite a complicated process, in reality - with the right preparation and knowledge, of course - it becomes relatively simple and do-able on your own. However, it is worth remembering that correctly sealing a shower enclosure, especially with silicone, is crucial to its proper functioning, ensuring safe use and extending its lifespan. Today we show you how to do it!

Sealing shower enclosures - when is it necessary?

Sealing a shower enclosure is one of the most important factors for its proper functioning. But when exactly is it necessary?

Shower tray siliconing

First and foremost, it is worth remembering that every new shower enclosure requires careful sealing. Properly carried out, it provides protection against leaks that can lead to damp, mould and other problems associated with excess water. Proper sealing of the shower tray is crucial to both its functionality and aesthetics - as it prevents unsightly discolouration and stains.

 In some cases, the sealing of a shower enclosure may also be necessary sometime after its installation. It all depends on the quality of the sealant used initially and the conditions in which the shower enclosure is used. If you notice any signs of leakage, such as dampness on the floor or dampness on the walls, this is a signal that the seal may need to be repaired or replaced.

In addition, if you notice that the silicone in your shower enclosure is starting to crumble, crack, discolour or has mould on it, this is a sure sign that it is time to re-seal the cubicle. If this is the case, it is best to proceed as soon as possible to avoid further problems. Whether you carry out the sealing yourself or have it done by a professional, it is important to carry out the process carefully, using the right materials.

What areas need sealing?

When we talk about sealing a shower enclosure, we are primarily referring to securing the contact area between the enclosure and other surfaces. Suppose you are wondering how to seal a shower enclosure with a shower tray. In this case, the most important points of contact between the shower tray and the wall and with the place where shower enclosure is installed on the shower tray. It is these points that are most prone to leaks.

Any leak, however small, can lead to leaks. This is why it is so important to take the time to carefully seal these areas.

What should I use to seal the shower enclosure?

When deciding which shower silicone to choose, sanitary silicone is most often recommended. It has several important characteristics:

  • High elasticity - this makes the silicone perfectly adaptable to the movements of the shower enclosure caused by temperature differences.
  • Moisture resistance - sanitary silicone is resistant to water and steam, which is essential in a humid bathroom environment.
  • Mould resistance - some sanitary silicones contain additional fungicides to prevent the growth of mould, fungi and bacteria.
  • Safety - sanitary silicone is safe for health once cured.

Find out below how to seal a shower enclosure with silicone.

What to bear in mind when planning the silicone sealing of a shower enclosure?

Sanplast shower enclosure siliconing

When planning the silicone sealing of a shower enclosure, there are several important aspects to bear in mind. The first is the proper preparation of the surface to which the silicone is to be glued. The area must be clean, dry and free of grease. If you plan to replace the old sealant with a new one, make sure that the previous one has been completely removed and the surface is thoroughly cleaned. This is because leaving residues of the old silicone can lead to adhesion problems with the new layer.

The second important issue is choosing the right silicone. As we have already mentioned, we recommend the use of sanitary silicone, which is resistant to moisture and mould and is also safe for health.

Also, it is very important to use the right tools to make the work easier. Without this, there is no way to properly seal the shower enclosure! In this case, a silicone gun will come in handy, which will allow the silicone to be precisely applied, as well as special tools for smoothing it, which will ensure an aesthetically pleasing and even result.

Finally, it is worth remembering to prepare the silicone itself correctly. Read the manufacturer's instructions before use and follow each step. Using the silicone in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions is key to ensuring optimum adhesion and durability.

Also remember the correct drying time. Each product has a different curing time, which is usually indicated on the product packaging. In order for the silicone to cure properly, the shower enclosure should not be used for a certain amount of time after application.

How do you silicone a shower enclosure?

Once you have planned the sealing of your shower enclosure, it is time to get down to specifics. How to seal a shower enclosure with silicone step by step?

  • Verify in the installation instructions the areas that need to be sealed in the showering area.
  • Prepare the surface: The surface to be applied with silicone must be clean, dry and free of grease. If it is a re-application or re-sealing stage of the shower enclosure, remove the previous sealant and thoroughly clean the area where you want to apply the new silicone.
  • Apply the silicone: Use a silicone gun to apply the silicone evenly to the surface. Remember to do this all the way around without leaving any gaps.
  • smooth the silicone: Use silicone smoothing tools to achieve a smooth and aesthetically pleasing result. Try to do this before the silicone starts to set.
  • Allow to dry: Finally, allow the silicone to dry for the time specified by the manufacturer. This is usually between 24 and 48 hours, after which the sealing of the shower tray and shower enclosure is complete.

Proper sealing of the shower enclosure and shower tray is crucial to its proper functioning and long service life. With the right preparation, you can do it yourself! Remember to seal key areas such as the joints and contact points between the shower tray and the shower enclosure and wall. Selecting the right sanitary silicone that is resistant to moisture, mould and temperature differences is essential for a long-lasting and effective seal. Remember also to prepare the surface and the silicone correctly and use the right tools to make the job easier and ensure a professional result. Finally, the most important thing: follow the instructions and patiently and accurately carry out the entire process - these are key issues when siliconising a shower enclosure.

Knowledge base Publish date: 12/07/2023