It is estimated that 29% of water usage in the average Australian home is in the shower. Every day the shower wall and floor surfaces are exposed to large amounts of water and has to safely guide it down the drain. When water meets a porous tiled surface in a compact area, it’s only a matter of time before a leak occurs and you’ll be asking yourself, “What is the best way to shower seal my shower?”
Before you run to the hardware store, take some time to assess the situation and prepare yourself with the right tools.
Identify the Leak
Water is a powerful force that flows freely in many directions so it can sneak into even the tiniest cracks, gaps and crevices. The design and condition of your shower will determine where the water travels most frequently, how long it takes for the water to drain, and if there is anything stopping the water from reaching its destination.
A quick visual inspection will help you answer most of these questions. The most crucial things to look out for are:
- Loose, broken or cracked tile grout
- Deterioration of silicone in the floor and wall junctions
- Cracked, broken or loose tiles
- Failure of waterproof membrane below the surface
- Some harsh cleaning products strip away surface sealants and other coatings
- Poor installation of tiles, grout or plumbing facilities
What to Look for In Shower Sealant
Before you know the best way to shower seal your shower, you need to use the right products.
Luckily, shower sealer is inexpensive and can be easily purchased at most hardware stores. When applied to a tiled surface, the solution penetrates the grout and initiates a chemical reaction that solidifies after a few hours to help block the passage of water.
Most store-bought products have enough solution in a single bottle to comfortable fill an entire shower. Sealer is also easy to apply and the treated area is ready to use the next day.
Plus, the solution is clear so it will not change the appearance of the surface.
The Best Way to Shower Seal Your Shower
No matter where you apply the sealant, the process is typically the same and involves the following steps:
- Remove Old Grout: Gently strip away at the existing sealant with a sharp metal blade until the surface is clear.
- Clean Up: Give the tiles a thorough clean to ensure the surface is dry, while being free of dust and debris.
- Prepare the Tools: Cut the shower sealant nozzle at a 45° angle, this ensures the sealant is applied evenly along the surface.
- Aim and Fire: Aim the product at the desired surface and apply generously along the grout line. For convenience, it’s best to start from the centre of the shower and work your way outwards.
- The Finishing Touch: Finally, gently spray water on the newly applied sealant. Take a Popsicle stick, and run it over the surface until its smooth. Be sure to clean up any leftover debris or product.
Still asking yourself, “What is the best way to shower seal my shower?” Avoid the hassle of a potentially messy job and let the experts save you the trouble. Shower Sealed has over 23 years of experience in shower sealing and most services are backed by a guarantee. For a FREE quote, call 1300 519 133 and we’ll be happy to arrange an appointment for you.
