How To Seal Round A Bath - PROPERLY.
Some jobs appear to be so straightforward that you just do not need any advice. But looks can be deceiving…
A great example of this is sealing round the edge of a bath or shower. Now, this may look like a simple task, but it can all go horribly wrong in a very short space of time. If it is done properly then it will be both tidy and waterproof. However… if you get it wrong then it will look like a right pig’s ear!
What makes this job so precarious is the fact that it involves sealant. Not only must you use it to carry out the task, but you need to apply it neatly. A silicone sealant gun is a very dangerous thing indeed and they are a weapon of choice amongst cowboy builders. When wielded by the inexperienced, silicone guns can leave a sticky and unsightly trail of destruction. I have seen some terrible examples of what transpires when a Bodger gets his mitts on one of these… Think lumpy, inch wide expanses of horrid goo round the edges of your bath; and this is what the careful DIYer is up against!
There are one or two golden rules to bear in mind when you are using a silicone gun to seal round a bath or shower-
· Always use a good quality sealant.
If you scrimp on price then you will end up doing the whole job far sooner than you should! Choose a well-known brand and make sure that it has fungicide in its ingredients.
· Fill your bath.
If you are sealing around a bath, then fill it up before you start. This will weigh down the tub the same as if someone were in it. If you do not do this before sealing, then it will put additional strain on the sealant when it is dry and someone has a bath.
· Avoid a sticky situation.
Silicone will stick like the proverbial. Make sure you have plenty of rags to wipe your fingers on and avoid touching it with dry hands! To smooth the sealant, always wet your finger first.
· Take your time.
Not everyone is used to using one of these guns and you may need to work slowly. Don’t worry about this at all; it is better to take your time than to rush it all and make a mess. Only apply a thin bead of sealant to begin with. You can always go over it if necessary, but you will have a terrible time trying to remove excessive amounts.
Follow these steps and soon you will have a bath that you can proudly hang your flag beach towel towel on! Good Luck!
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