Omar Khalid
Sealing a plastic shower tray is a simple way to refresh your bathroom and prevent leaks. The process involves removing old sealant, cleaning the area, and applying new silicone sealant. It is important to choose the correct type of sealant and to follow the manufacturer's instructions for curing and drying times. Using the correct tools, such as a sealant gun, smoothing tool, and application nozzle, will ensure a professional finish. This guide will cover the steps and offer tips for a successful shower tray sealing project.
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What You'll Learn
Removing old sealant
Step 1: Put on Protective Gear
Before starting, it is important to put on protective gloves to shield your hands from any sharp tools or chemicals you may use during the removal process. Safety goggles are also recommended to protect your eyes from any flying debris.
Step 2: Cut Away the Majority of the Sealant
Using a sharp blade, such as a craft knife, box cutter, modelling knife, or a chisel, carefully cut and scrape away the majority of the old silicone sealant. Be cautious to only cut the sealant and avoid scratching or damaging the surface of the shower tray underneath. It is recommended to use a plastic tool to reduce the risk of scratching. Flexible blades are ideal as they can run against the tiles or shower tray without digging in.
Step 3: Remove Leftover Sealant
After cutting away most of the sealant, you will be left with smaller pieces that are harder to remove with a knife or chisel. At this point, you can use a chemical sealant remover to dissolve the remaining sealant. Alternatively, you can apply white spirit to a rag and rub it on the leftover sealant fibres until they dissolve or break off. If the remaining sealant is minimal, you may simply use your fingers to rub off the strands.
Step 4: Clean the Surface
Once all the old sealant has been removed, wipe down the area with a damp cloth to remove any residue. You may also use a mild detergent to ensure the area is thoroughly cleaned. Finally, use paper towels or a hairdryer to speed up the drying process before applying new sealant.
Remember to take your time and work carefully to avoid any damage to your shower tray. With these steps, you will effectively remove the old sealant and prepare the surface for a new, smooth application.
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Choosing the right sealant
Compatibility with Materials
It is essential to choose a sealant that is compatible with the materials of your shower tray and surrounding walls or floors. For example, if you have natural stone, porcelain tiles, or ceramic tiles, select a silicone sealant designed for use with these materials. Consult tile suppliers or sealant manufacturers for specific recommendations.
Hygienic and Anti-Mould Properties
Opt for a hygienic silicone sealant that is suitable for use in wet areas like bathrooms or shower rooms. Look for products with anti-mould and bacterial additives to prevent the growth of mould and bacteria, which can cause health issues and damage to your shower. Examples of such sealants are Kerakoll Fugabella Eco Silicone Sealant and Kerakoll Fugabella AM Silicone Sealant.
Curing Time
Different sealants have varying curing times, so be sure to check the manufacturer's instructions. Typically, silicone sealants require a minimum of 24 hours to cure completely before using the shower or exposing the sealant to water. Failure to allow adequate curing time can result in seal failure and leaks.
Elasticity and Flexibility
If your shower tray is subject to movement or flexibility, consider using a more elastic sealant like MS polymers. These sealants are better at maintaining a watertight seal and preventing degradation in high-movement areas.
Chemical Resistance
In some cases, your shower tray may be exposed to harsh chemicals. If so, choose a chemical-resistant sealant instead of a standard silicone sealant. This type of sealant will provide a better barrier against potential chemical damage.
Application Tools
While not directly related to the sealant itself, having the right application tools can significantly impact the quality of your seal. Invest in a good-quality silicone sealant application gun and application tools, such as those made from rubber or plastic, to ensure a smooth and consistent finish.
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Preparing the area
Remove Old Sealant:
Start by removing any existing sealant using a sharp blade or knife. Be cautious not to scratch or damage the surface of the shower tray. A Stanley knife or a specialist sealant remover can also be used for this step. Cut along the top and bottom of the old sealant, then carefully pull it out and scrape away any residue.
Clean and Dry the Surface:
Use a vacuum cleaner or a hoover to remove any dust, loose deposits, or leftover particles. Then, clean the shower tray surface with a damp cloth soaked in warm water and a mild detergent. Ensure you wipe away any detergent residue with a damp cloth, and then dry the area thoroughly with paper towels or a hairdryer. It is crucial to ensure the shower tray is completely dry before proceeding, as any residual moisture may affect the adhesion of the new sealant.
Choose the Right Sealant:
Select a high-quality silicone sealant designed for bathroom use. Ensure it contains anti-fungal and anti-mould additives to prevent bacterial growth. Additionally, choose a sealant that is compatible with your shower's surface material, such as natural stone, porcelain tiles, or ceramic tiles. Consult with tile suppliers or the sealant manufacturer for specific recommendations.
Prepare the Sealant Application:
Read and follow the manufacturer's instructions for the sealant. Cut the application nozzle on the sealant tube at a 45-degree angle, ensuring the hole is not too wide. Typically, a 5mm hole is standard, but you can refer to the nozzle's indicators for guidance on widening the hole if needed. Stick masking tape above and below the area to be sealed, leaving a 3mm gap between the tape and the wall and shower tray. This gap is where you will apply the sealant.
Gather Necessary Tools:
Ensure you have the necessary tools for a smooth application. This includes paper towels, a large plastic bag, and a silicone sealant application tool to remove excess sealant and achieve a neat finish. A retractable utility knife will also be useful for opening the sealant and trimming the nozzle.
By following these steps, you will effectively prepare the area for sealing your plastic shower tray, ensuring a professional and long-lasting result.
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Applying the sealant
Before applying the sealant, ensure the shower tray and walls are completely dry, clean, and free from dirt and dust. You can use a vacuum cleaner to remove any dust and loose deposits, and then clean the shower tray surface and tiles with a damp cloth soaked in warm water and a mild detergent. Once clean, wipe the area dry with a paper towel. If any moisture remains, the silicone sealant may not fully adhere to the surface, so leave the shower tray to dry for at least two hours before applying the sealant.
Select a high-quality silicone sealant designed for bathroom use, ensuring it contains anti-fungal and antibacterial additives. Read the manufacturer's instructions before use, as the sealant must be fully cured before it comes into contact with water. Choose the correct type of silicone sealant that is compatible with your chosen wall and floor coverings.
When you are ready to apply the sealant, cut the application nozzle on the sealant tube at a 45-degree angle, ensuring the hole is not too big. The nozzle will have marks indicating where and how to trim it, typically to a 5mm hole. Attach the nozzle to the sealant gun.
Beginning at the inside corner of the tray, carefully squeeze the trigger of the sealant gun and, in one slow and continuous movement, direct the bead to the front of the tray. Apply gentle pressure and ensure that an even bead of silicone is applied. The sealant is hard to clear, so be careful not to over-apply. Use your finger to press the sealant into any cracks, ensuring it is completely covered and airtight.
Fill any visible sealant gaps and apply extra sealant to any areas where it is required. When finishing each sealant line, quickly release your finger from the trigger and wipe away any excess sealant from the gun with a paper towel.
Use a smoothing tool to create an even bead. Select the right-sized tool to ensure the finished bead completely covers the gap between the tiles and the tray. Place the smoothing tool against the tray and tiles, starting from the point where you first applied the sealant. Apply gentle yet consistent pressure, pulling the tool along the length of the tray to remove excess sealant. When you've created a smooth bead, do not keep smoothing the sealant as it will tear and may not adhere correctly.
Finally, leave the fresh silicone sealant to dry for a minimum of 24 hours, following the manufacturer's instructions for the specific drying time.
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Finishing and smoothing
Before applying the sealant, make sure the shower tray and walls are completely dry, clean, and free from dirt and dust. If there is residual moisture, the silicone sealant may not adhere to the surface properly. It is recommended to leave the shower tray to dry for at least 2 hours.
After ensuring the surface is dry and clean, select the right-sized finishing tool to smooth the bead. The tool should be chosen such that the finished bead completely covers the gap between the tiles and the tray, leaving no gaps.
Cut the application nozzle on the sealant tube at a 45-degree angle, being careful not to make the hole too wide. Typically, a 5mm hole is standard, but it can be enlarged if a wider bead is required. The nozzle should have indicators for where to cut to achieve the desired width.
Now, starting from the corner of the shower tray where you first applied the sealant, apply gentle yet consistent pressure, pulling the tool along the length of the tray in a balanced and gentle motion. This will remove excess sealant and leave a consistent, even bead.
Once you have created a smooth, uniform bead, do not be tempted to keep smoothing as it may tear, look untidy, and may not adhere correctly. Allow the sealant to cure fully according to the manufacturer's instructions. Fresh silicone should typically be left to dry for a minimum of 24 hours.
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Frequently asked questions
Using protective gloves, carefully cut away the old silicone sealant with a sharp blade such as a knife, chisel, or Stanley knife. Be cautious not to scratch or damage the surface of the shower tray.
Use white spirit on a rag to dissolve any remaining sealant fibres. Alternatively, you can use your fingers to rub off the leftover strands.
Clean the shower tray with a damp cloth soaked in warm water and a mild detergent. Remove the detergent residue with a damp cloth, then dry the area with a paper towel. Ensure the shower tray is completely dry before applying the new sealant.
Choose a high-quality hygienic silicone sealant that is suitable for bathroom use. It should contain anti-fungal and anti-mould additives and be compatible with your shower tray and wall/floor coverings.
Cut the sealant nozzle at a 45-degree angle, creating a 5mm hole. Gently squeeze the trigger of the sealant gun, directing the bead from the inside corner of the tray to the front in one slow action. Use a smoothing tool to create an even bead, ensuring no gaps are left between the shower tray and wall tiles.
