A properly sealed shower tray is the unsung hero of any well-functioning bathroom. It not only provides a stable base for your shower but also prevents water from seeping into the underlying structure, safeguarding your bathroom against potential leaks and costly repairs. However, without a robust sealing job, even the most durable shower trays can fall prey to water damage over time.
In this article, we'll delve into the specifics of sealing a shower tray, focusing on the unique challenges and techniques that pertain specifically to this critical bathroom fixture.
Whether you're in the midst of a bathroom renovation or simply aiming to maintain your current setup, understanding the nuances of sealing a shower tray is essential for a leak-free and long-lasting installation.
The Tools You'll Need To Seal A Shower
Sealant Gun:
A sealant gun, also known as a caulking gun, is an essential tool for applying silicone sealant. It allows for controlled and precise dispensing of the sealant.
Sanitary Silicone:
This is the specific type of silicone sealant designed for use in wet and humid environments, such as bathrooms. It provides a flexible waterproof seal and is resistant to mould and mildew.
Related Article: The Best Silicone Sealant For Showers - Ultimate Guide (this also applies for baths)
Stanley Knife or Blade:
A sharp knife or blade is necessary for cutting the nozzle of the silicone tube to the desired size. This determines the thickness of the bead of sealant.
Silicone Smoothing Tool:
This tool is used to shape and smooth the sealant after it has been applied. It helps create a clean and professional finish.
Spray Bottle of Washing-up Liquid and Water:
This mixture acts as a lubricant for smoothing the silicone sealant, preventing it from sticking to the tool or smearing along any surfaces.
Kitchen Towel or Clean/Dry Cloth:
These are used for preparing the joints and for cleaning up any spills or smudges during the application process.
Bottle of Methylated Spirit:
Methylated spirit, also known as denatured alcohol, is used for cleaning and preparing the surfaces before applying the silicone sealant.
Having these tools ready and understanding their functions will greatly facilitate the silicone application process, leading to a more successful and professional-looking finish.
Where To Apply The New Silicone For A Watertight Shower
To achieve a watertight seal for your shower tray, it's crucial to apply silicone in specific areas where water may potentially penetrate. Here are the key areas where you should apply silicone (this is also illustrated by the red lines in the picture above):
Around the Edges of the Tray:
Apply a continuous bead of silicone along the perimeter where the shower tray meets the walls or any surrounding surfaces. This ensures that water cannot seep underneath the tray.
Seam between the Tray and the Tile or Flooring:
If your shower tray is installed on top of tiles or flooring, there may be a small seam where they meet. Apply silicone along this seam to prevent water from seeping underneath.
Up Vertical Wall Corners:
Apply silicone along the vertical corners where the walls meet in the shower area. These corners are potential areas where water may collect and seep into the underlying structure.
By sealing these corners with silicone, you create an additional barrier against water penetration, further enhancing the watertight integrity of your shower installation.
Sealing up vertical wall corners is especially important in showers with tiled walls. Grout lines and the natural gaps that can occur at corners can be vulnerable points for water ingress. Applying silicone in these areas helps to fortify the seal, ensuring that water cannot find its way behind the tiles or into the walls.
Around Shower Screen Or Enclosure:
Once the shower screen has been fitted, its time to seal the screen.
As a rule you should apply silicone sealant around the outer edges of the shower screen frame where it meets the wall and base. This includes the vertical edges (down the wall) and the bottom edge (along base) of the frame.
The vertical edges of the frame inside the unit, also need to be sealed.
Related Article: How To Silicone A Shower Screen (The Correct Way)
How To Seal A Shower Tray
Follow this step by step for a completely water tight, fully functioning shower tray.
1) Prepare The Area
If the shower tray has existing sealant already around the edge, this will need to be completely removed first before applying the new silicone.
See the following article for details on how to remove existing silicone sealant: How To Completely Remove Old Silicone Sealant - The Pro 4 Step Method
If its a newly installed shower tray, add a small amount of methylated spirit to a cloth or piece of kitchen roll, and give the joints you are sealing a wipe. Ensure the joint's are completely dirt, grit and dust free and completely dry before moving on to the next step.
Why use methylated spirit?
The methylated spirit is not only a great cleaning and degreasing solution. But the residue evaporates almost immediately. This will ensure the joints are completely dry before applying the new silicone.
2) Load The Silicone Gun
Load the silicone sealant cartridge into the gun and cut the nozzle at a 45-degree angle. The size of the opening will determine the thickness of the bead. Start with a small opening and enlarge it if needed.
3) Apply The Silicone Sealant
With the gun at a 45-degree angle, gently squeeze the trigger and move it steadily around the perimeter of the shower tray. Apply a continuous bead of sealant, ensuring full coverage. Use a consistent speed to maintain an even line.
4) Smooth The Sealant
After applying the sealant, spray the bead with the soapy water, this stops the sealant from smearing or sticking to stuff it shouldn't when tooling. Then use a silicone tool to smooth and shape the bead.
This ensures an even, professional-looking finish.
DO NOT lick your finger and smooth the sealant. The bacteria in your mouth can transfer to the sealant and cause premature mould growth. Also, it's disgusting!
5) Allow Sealant To Cure
Generally, it's recommended to let the silicone dry for at least 24 to 48 hours after applying the sealant.
During this period, the sealant undergoes a process of drying and curing. This ensures that it forms a strong, watertight barrier against any movement, dirt, debris or spillages. It's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions on the specific drying and curing times for the sealant you're using, as different products may have varying requirements.
Additionally, it's advisable to avoid using the shower during this curing period to prevent any potential disruptions or damage to the freshly applied sealant.
Related Article: How Long Does Bathroom Silicone Take To Dry
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