A bathroom is the only room in a house or apartment that, among all the rooms in a living space, is most exposed to the direct effect of water. The issue of tightness is especially relevant for showers, sinks, bathtubs, since in these places the joints with the wall are the most vulnerable places for water penetration. Leaking through them, moisture can accumulate under the bathtub or shower cabin and not dry out for a long time.
To seal such gaps, cement compositions were previously used, which over time stratified and also crumbled. Modern building technologies have firmly introduced a moisture-resistant sealant for the bathroom, which, in addition to the main tasks, effectively performs sanitary functions. It prevents mold and mildew from developing in high humidity conditions.
Varieties of sealants for the bathroom
Sealants consist mostly of basic bases: polyurethane, acrylic, silicone, bitumen and others, as well as special additives that improve their properties. Accordingly, the following compositions can be distinguished:
- Silicone substances.
Gained popularity for renovation work inside bathrooms. They have proven themselves very well when used for sealing joints, as they have excellent adhesion to all materials, as well as minimal shrinkage. The silicone underlying them is characterized by excellent moisture-repellent properties, as well as high resistance to temperature extremes.
There are two types of silicone composition: acidic and neutral. The first option has a characteristic vinegar smell, as well as an affordable price. At the same time, it is better to use it when working with plastic, ceramics, since the chemical composition of acidic silicone has a destructive effect on metals, activating and starting corrosion processes. Neutral silicone sealants are more versatile and are suitable for acrylic and metal plumbing, although they are somewhat more expensive.
- Acrylic option
Differs in an affordable price, practicality, but its main drawback is its low elasticity. For this reason, its use is not recommended on surfaces subject to deformation. On the other hand, such seams can be covered with plaster, varnish, paint.
- Silicone-acrylic compounds
They have the best characteristics, the advantages of silicone and acrylic versions: excellent adhesion, elasticity. This is why they are best used as a bath sealant.
- Polyurethane sealant
Provides a strong, secure elastic seam. This sealant has proven itself especially positively when repairing old silicone coatings.
Parameters for the selection of sealing compounds
Today there is a wide selection of compounds for filling joints in rooms with high humidity. Which bathroom sealant to choose depends on the conditions of its use. Therefore, when buying it, the following requirements must be met:
- It must be moisture resistant, since water resistance is its main function.
- It should contain antifungal antibacterial additives. Mold protection is an important aesthetic as well as a sanitary problem.
- When choosing a sealant, it is important to consider how long it dries. Also, everyone can determine which option is better in consistency and color: white, colored or transparent.
- All bathroom joint products are available for professional as well as domestic use. At the same time, it is also important to choose compounds suitable for working with sanitary equipment made of metal, acrylic, and plastic. For example, the packages of the mixtures indicate the acid composition, as well as the preferred use for acrylic and polyvinyl chloride. For acrylic plumbing, an acrylic bath sealant is best suited, since it is the closest in composition.
- Various additives in the composition of sealing mixtures perform different tasks: they fill wide seams, increase elasticity, prevent mold, mildew, and reduce the cost of the product. In any case, if there are more than 10% of such ingredients in the sealant of the total volume, you should not buy it.
Sealant application technology
Apply sealants in a continuous continuous line to a clean, dry, grease-free surface. The drying time of the joints depends to a large extent on the humidity of the room, as well as on the composition of the mixture. For example, silicone and acrylic sealant dries for about a day, and polyurethane version - in 10 hours.
To carry out the work, you will need the following tools, as well as materials:
- assembly gun;
- masking tape;
- rubber spatula;
- rag;
- solvent for degreasing.
Preparatory work
The bath sealant can be applied for the first time or when replacing old silicone joints. In the first option, surface preparation consists in the fact that it is thoroughly washed out, and after drying it is degreased. The bath sealant is applied to the ideal surface, and the time it dries depends largely on its internal composition and characteristics.
When re-sealing, it is important to remove the old silicone layer as carefully as possible. For this, a clerical knife or blade is used. In the process of work, you should act very carefully so as not to damage the walls or plumbing. The main result of such tedious work should be the complete disposal of the old seam. Otherwise, there is a possibility of poor adhesion.
A big problem is the black mold-covered sealing layer that has been in use for a long time. To remove it, you will need to use chemicals, which are currently presented in aerosol or pasty options.
Before starting work, it is advisable to take care of the ventilation of the bathroom. Not only the drying time depends on this, but also the likelihood of damage to the respiratory tract of the direct repair workers, as well as people living in adjacent rooms. Therefore, during such work, rubber gloves and respirators must be used. The process itself does not present any particular difficulties. It is important to carry out such events in the following sequence:
- First, the chemical is applied to the surface and “dries” for a certain time. How long it takes to endure depends on the composition of a particular substance.
- After that, the old layer is removed by lightly pressing the hand with a napkin. When performing such work inside the bathroom space, it is recommended to treat the surfaces with an antiseptic, which is better to spray. In the next step, it is advisable to use a sanitary polyurethane sealant that dries in a shorter time.
Application of sealing agents
Most sealants must be applied to a dry, clean surface. Only the silicone version of the composition can be applied to a damp surface. Bathroom sealant is often supplied with special applicators to help you carry out special work accurately. This option is most suitable for home use. For commercial use, the following types of sealants are used:
- Moment is a multipurpose silicone version of the sealant, which is available in tubes of different sizes.
- Titanium is most suitable for shower enclosures because it dries quickly and retains a high bond strength. Its only drawback is the small 310 ml package. Available in two versions: acrylic and silicone.
- Ceresit can be used as an adhesive, but is not suitable for sealing aquariums and food surfaces.
How much you need to spend a sealant depends on the smoothness of the pressure on the tube of sealant or on the "trigger" of a special pistol. The main thing is to form a uniform seam that will be resistant to moisture and temperature.