Need to get a grip on mouldy bathroom seals? Read our easy, step-by-step guide on how to silicone a corner for healthy baths and showers that look as good as new.
Sealing corners with silicone might seem a little daunting, especially for first timers. However, mastering how to apply silicone in corners is easier than you think with our essential pointers - starting with which silicone sealant is right for the job.
If you’re somewhat of a novice, we recommend UniBond Easy Sealing Kitchen & Bathroom Sealant Tube, which is easy to apply - no need for a cartridge gun - and contains a fungicide to prevent mould growth. UniBond’s user-friendly Re-New is also a great option - this sealant can be applied on top of existing sealants. It cures in 6 hours and is fully cured after 24 hours. For an ultra-long-lasting sealant we recommend Unibond’s Kitchen & Bathroom Anti-mould Sealant Cartridge, which provides a waterproof, mould-resistant seal that offers a 15-year guarantee.
First things first – choose your sealant. Should you opt for Unibond’s Kitchen & Bathroom Anti-mould Sealant Cartridge, here’s what to do:
1. Cut off the tip of cartridge cap above the thread. Screw on the plastic nozzle and diagonally cut off the tip of the nozzle.
2. Tape both sides of the borders of the corner or joint you’re working with to ensure a clear path for the silicone distribution.
3. Load your silicone gun, and test the bead size on spare material.
4. Start applying the silicone sealant about 1-2 centimetres away from the corner. Ensure a steady stream of pressure for a smooth bead.
5. Use a smoothing tool to tidy the silicone line and guide any extra into the corner.
6. Repeat this along each wall of the shower, ensuring the excess silicone meets neatly at the corners.
7. For any stray silicone, a simple wipe with a tissue dampened with white or methylated spirit or a putty knife can clean up those tricky corners.
Great news: when it comes to sealing outer and inner corners, the process remains the same, with just a minor tweak.
Once you've applied the silicone seal and smoothed the bead line, check the corner closely. Do you notice any protruding bubbles of silicone along the edge? If so, gently smooth them away, ensuring you finish with clean, sharp corner edges.
