Shower seal failing? New project underway? Either way, silicone sealant is your best friend for keeping water where it belongs — in the shower, not behind the walls. The good news? Doing it yourself is easier than you think. This guide will walk you through siliconing your shower for a watertight space. 

Let's get started.

What is silicone sealant?

Silicone sealant is a flexible, waterproof material that adheres firmly to various surfaces. It is a barrier between floor and wall joints that prevents water from leaking and mould from growing. 

Why use silicone sealant for showers?

There are two main reasons to apply silicone to your shower:

• New shower project: When installing a new shower, use bathroom sealant to create watertight seals around or along:
• The shower tray and walls;
• the shower screen; and
• fixtures such as taps, drains and shower heads.
• Shower maintenance: Over time, shower silicone can degrade due to constant exposure to moisture and harsh cleaning chemicals. This can lead to:
• Leaks: Cracked or failing silicone allows water to seep behind tiles and walls, potentially causing damage to the structure and neighbouring rooms.
• Mould: Leaky areas create a damp environment ideal for mould growth, leading to black spots and potential health risks.

How to remove and replace silicone in a shower

Inspecting and re-applying silicone sealant is essential to maintain a healthy and functional shower. Here’s how to do that:

How to remove silicone from a shower

Before applying new shower silicone, you must remove the old. 

1. Stay safe: Wear gloves, safety glasses and a mask to protect yourself from dust particles. Consider wearing old clothes, as the process can be messy.
2. Score a line: Use a sharp utility knife to carefully score a line down the centre of the existing silicone. This weakens the seal, making it easier to remove.
3. Scrape away: Use a caulk and sealant remover to peel away the old silicone. Be careful not to damage surrounding tiles.
4. Consider chemicals: If the old silicone is particularly stubborn, a silicone remover can help soften it up. 
5. Clean the surface: Once all the old silicone is removed, thoroughly wipe down the area with a damp cloth dipped in methylated spirits. This removes any leftover residue and ensures a strong bond for the new silicone.
6. Let dry: Allow the cleaned area to dry completely for at least an hour. Moisture can prevent the new silicone from adhering properly.

How to apply silicone to a shower

It's time to apply the fresh bathroom sealant and create a watertight barrier.

1. Gather supplies: You’ll need a caulking gun, anti-mould silicone, paddle pop sticks and rags.
2. Cut the nozzle: Using a sharp blade, cut the tip of the silicone cartridge at a 45° angle, ensuring the hole is slightly wider than the gap you're filling.
3. Load the gun: Insert the cartridge into the caulking gun and squeeze the trigger until silicone emerges from the nozzle.
4. Apply carefully: Apply the silicone in a smooth, continuous bead, pressing firmly on the caulking gun as you move along the gap. Aim for a slightly rounded bead that fills the space.
5. Smooth the bead: Before the silicone starts to skin over, use a smoothing tool like a paddle pop stick to create a neat finish. Regularly wipe the tool on a damp cloth to avoid dragging.
6. Cure: Refer to the instructions on the silicone cartridge for drying times before using your shower again. 

Seal the deal with Yabby

Follow these steps to shower sealing and enjoy peace of mind knowing your bathroom is protected from water damage and mould. 

For all your showering needs, explore stylish and functional tapware at Yabby. Yabby has shower tapware and accessories to complement any bathroom aesthetic. Visit our website or TileCloud showroom to find the perfect tapware for you.