Sealant is a paste-like agent, the purpose of which is to waterproof and seal. special role sealants play in the bathroom - they are used to seal tile joints, as well as joints between tiles and a bath or shower. With their help, it is possible to achieve a more aesthetic appearance and give the repair completeness. An additional function is protection against condensate, splashes and high humidity, which contribute to the development of pathogenic fungi and bacteria.
- composition setting speed;
- ease of removal after drying;
- brand value and popularity;
- mold resistance;
- consistency;
- degree of adhesion - the quality of setting with other materials.
The best silicone sealants
Silicone sealants are traditionally used to seal tile joints in the bathroom. Thanks to their high degree of adhesion to most materials, they are perfect for all types of bathtubs, showers and exterior finishes. The main advantages of this type of sealant are resistance to moisture, UV rays and temperature extremes. They demonstrate a long period of operation, and shrinkage, according to statistics, does not exceed 2 percent.
3 Ravak Professional (white) X01200
Better adhesion and faster drying
Country: Czech Republic
Average price: 600 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.8
One of the best silicone sealants for the bathroom, which experts recommend to use when installing bathtubs, shower enclosures, washbasins, trays. Ordinary buyers rarely purchase it due to its high cost, but it is in great demand among plumbing installers. According to their reviews, the sealant has very good adhesive properties, perfectly seals the seams, eliminating even the slightest chance of leakage. Over time, it does not wash out, does not change color. Thanks to antifungal additives, it prevents the appearance of mold. It dries quickly - it hardens in an hour, but before the first use of plumbing after sealing, it is better to wait a full day. On sale you can find a colorless and white sealant of a Czech company.
Advantages:
- fast drying;
- excellent adhesion;
- designed specifically for plumbing and bathrooms;
- does not wash out and does not change color;
- has antifungal properties;
- sealing seams without leaks.
Disadvantages:
- high price.
2 Dow Corning 7091
best sealant for showers
Country: USA
Average price: 967 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.9
The best sealant for showers and boxes according to the results of user voting is Dow Corning. It can be safely called an adhesive-sealant, since the insulation is highly reliable and durable. Excellent adhesion does not allow water to seep out, and the absence of a tendency to form mold makes the composition even more attractive in the eyes of buyers. He is not afraid of high humidity and temperature changes, as evidenced by rave reviews.
Advantages:
- high-quality waterproofing of boxes and showers;
- durable adhesive sealant;
- high degree of adhesion;
- does not promote the growth of microorganisms;
- resistance to humidity and temperature changes.
Disadvantages:
- high price.
1 Kim Tec Silicon Acetat 101E
The best combination of low cost and excellent quality
Country: Germany
Average price: 250 rubles.
Rating (2019): 5.0
Transparent silicone sealant used for different kind works, including for sealing in conditions of high humidity. Great for bathtubs, showers and other sanitary ware. You can work with the most different materials– wood, concrete, glass, ceramics, plastic. According to user reviews, this is a very high-quality silicone sealant with pronounced antifungal properties. Withstands exposure to very high temperatures, so it can be used not only in the bathroom, but also in the sauna. The speed of final curing is from 1 to 7 days.
Advantages:
- antifungal properties;
- universality;
- elasticity;
- connection durability;
- the best combination of low cost and excellent quality.
Disadvantages:
- persistent smell of vinegar, which lasts up to 10 hours.
Best Sanitary Sealants
Sanitary sealants are a type of silicone. Their feature is increased protection against various environmental factors. Their composition is enriched with fungicides. This best choice for those who need to repair and seal joints between plumbing fixtures, tiles and ceramics, piping, etc. In addition, they are great for restoring old joints.
3 TANGIT S 400
High mold resistance
Country: Greece
Average price: 320 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.6
This sanitary sealant is praised by users for its outstanding mold resistance. The pasty consistency is characterized by an acetate composition with the addition of fungicides, which prevents the growth of fungi and bacteria on the surface of the joints between tiles and / or sanitary ware. The advantages of the product do not end there - it has a high degree of adhesion, elasticity, water resistance and durability. Especially often in the reviews they mention such a characteristic of the sealant as the presence of color variations. Moreover, at the request of the buyer, the manufacturer is ready to create a sealant of the required shade to order. The disadvantage is that the sealant is not sold in all stores.
Advantages:
- high resistance to reproduction of microorganisms;
- excellent adhesion;
- water resistance;
- elasticity;
- color solutions.
Disadvantages:
- the difficulty of finding a sale.
2 Belinka Belsil Sanitary Acetate
Ideal for ceramics
Country: Slovenia
Average price: 250 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.7
Sanitary sealant Belinka has a pronounced antifungal effect. Due to the pasty consistency, it does not flow during the application of the composition, but evenly lays down, filling the seam, isolating it with high quality. Users note that the sealant does not shrink and does not wash out due to its viscosity, and mechanical action is required to remove it. In the reviews, this tool is called the best for ceramic tiles. Such an honorary title is due to high rates of adhesion, that is, adhesion. Minor drawbacks mentioned by buyers are a long curing time, as well as a vinegary smell.
Advantages:
- high-quality adhesion to ceramics;
- uniform application;
- does not shrink;
- pasty viscous consistency;
- antifungal effect.
Disadvantages:
- vinegar smell;
- long freezing.
1 MACROFLEX SX101
Best Sanitary Sealant
Country: Estonia
Average price: 270 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.8
Macroflex sanitary sealant has the best antiseptic properties. The experts unanimously gave preference to him, appreciating the degree of adhesion and resistance to temperature and humidity changes. In particular, it is recommended for sealing joints and cracks in the bathroom, sauna and bath. It contains antiseptic ingredients, which increase resistance to the occurrence of fungi. A small minus is, according to users, a pungent smell that persists for an hour. The reviews indicate that when removed after drying, some encountered difficulties.
Advantages:
- antiseptic properties;
- excellent adhesion;
- resistance to humidity and temperature changes;
- prevents the growth of fungi.
Disadvantages:
- bad smell;
- difficult to remove after drying.
Best Acrylic Sealants
Acrylic sealants are generally cheaper than silicone sealants. They are characterized by excellent adhesion to materials, ease of application, high resistance to ultraviolet rays. Acrylic sealants do not fade, withstand low and high temperatures. The disadvantage that you should be aware of is that the seam is not so elastic. Experts do not recommend using acrylic sealant for joints subject to deformation.
3 VGP acrylic white, 310 ml
All-purpose sealant for the bath and the whole house
Country Russia
Average price: 120 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.7
This tool is used to seal especially important seams up to 2 mm wide. Suitable for indoor and outdoor work. Withstands conditions of high humidity, temperature changes, therefore it is often used when installing bathtubs, sinks, toilet bowls, shower cabins. Gives a strong bond to most commonly used materials - metal, PVC, ceramic, glass. Due to special additives, it has antibacterial properties, prevents the appearance of mold.
Advantages:
- water resistance of the seam;
- high fastening strength;
- low cost;
- antifungal properties;
- the possibility of staining with water-based paints.
No shortcomings could be found.
2 Moment Germent
Ideal for wide seams
The country: Germany (produced in Russia)
Average price: 152 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.7
Moment Germent is the most optimal acrylic product for problem joints and wide seams in the bathroom. Users note good adhesion of the composition, improved elasticity of the joints and the quality of their filling. Sealant is moisture resistant, perfectly insulates, serves for a long time. The reviews pay attention to the fact that the consistency becomes too thick when the composition is close to the expiration date. Distinctive feature- frost resistance, so it can be used both inside and outside. An additional advantage is that paint adheres well over the sealant, so it is suitable for any interior.
Advantages:
- ideal for wide seams;
- frost and moisture resistance;
- elasticity;
- the possibility of painting;
- good adhesion.
Disadvantages:
- becomes too thick towards the end of the expiration date.
1 Ceresit CS 7
Better seam elasticity
Country: Turkey
Average price: 140 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.8
Sealant from Ceresit is a popular composition for sealing joints when installing plumbing and laying tiles. A feature of this product is the increased elasticity of the seams, which provides high-quality and durable insulation, despite the acrylic type. After drying, the sealant can be painted in the actual design color, which users especially like. The composition is characterized by good resistance to humidity in the bathroom, and the possible change temperature conditions. Ceresit is one of the most famous brands, according to reviews, whose recognition has a positive effect on the sales of the product of this brand. To avoid cracking, it is not recommended to apply a large layer.
Advantages:
- popular brand;
- elasticity of seams;
- high-quality insulation;
- resistance to moisture and temperature extremes;
- the possibility of staining the sealant.
Disadvantages:
- may crack when applied in large layers.
The Best All-Purpose Sealants
Universal sealants are considered the best in the sense that they can be used to perform various household tasks. Their scope is not limited to the bathroom. Universal sealants are suitable for most common materials. They can be used to install a bathtub or shower cabin, sealing joints and many other works.
3 Quelyd "007" Adhesive Sealant
Replaces all types of sealants
Country: Germany
Average price: 420 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.7
A unique adhesive-sealant that replaces several products at once - silicone, acrylic sealant, assembly, carpentry, polyurethane adhesive. It provides excellent adhesion to a variety of surfaces, even if they are to be used underwater. It both glues and seals at the same time. Due to the absence of a solvent in the composition, it does not have a strong odor, so it can be used even in unventilated rooms. Sealant differs in long service life, does not darken, maintains high temperatures, adverse conditions.
Advantages:
- universality;
- excellent adhesion with any materials;
- sticks even under water;
- no strong odor.
Cons: high cost
2 MASTERTEKS PM universal 290ml white
Fast curing and excellent adhesion
Country: Poland
Average price: 250 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.8
A one-component acid-type agent designed to perform various repair work. Has excellent adhesion to ceramics, glass, metal, wood, enamel, plastic. With it, you can process the seams between the tiles, the joints when installing plumbing, close the gaps in the window frames. The sealant hardens quite quickly under the influence of air humidity. The characteristics are excellent - minimal shrinkage of the seam, long-term preservation of elasticity in various temperature conditions, resistance to household chemicals and other aggressive substances.
Advantages:
- fast hardening;
- good adhesion with any materials;
- long-term elasticity;
- slight shrinkage of the seam;
- resistance to chemicals.
Disadvantages:
- lack of antifungal additives.
1 IRFix MULTISEAL 310ml
Suitable for a wide range of jobs
Country: Turkey
Average price: 360 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.9
Universal synthetic sealant (siliconized). Differs in good adhesion to any building materials. In the uncured state, it is very easily washed off the hands, does not irritate the skin. It dries completely in about a day, but this figure largely depends on temperature and humidity. As the operation does not darken, does not lose elasticity. If necessary, completely cured sealant can be varnished or painted.
Advantages:
- can be used for any housework;
- dries quickly, remains elastic for a long time;
- can be varnished and painted;
- does not darken over time.
Disadvantages:
- high price;
- no antifungal additives.
Today, a special sealant for the bathroom has received quite widespread use - it is designed for sealing seams. With it, you can also install tiles and plumbing. The main thing is to choose the right sealant.
Types of sealants - what are they?
A bathroom sealant is a mixture of polymeric materials with various additives. Sealants are divided into several types.
Silicone sealants are the most popular for bathroom work. Their distinguishing features are a long service life and good adhesion to other materials. The basis is silicone, which has water-repellent properties, can be safely used in the temperature range from -50 to +200 °. Today, several types of silicone sealant can be purchased on store shelves: neutral and acidic (acetic). The first type of silicone sealant for the bathroom is an order of magnitude more expensive, but does not harm metal products. The second type has a low price, but the material contributes to the oxidation of metals.
Acrylic sealants are inexpensive and very easy to use. However, the acrylic sealant coating does not have a high level of elasticity, and therefore it can only be used for those places that are not subject to use. The composition of the material does not contain organic solvents, and therefore it does not smell. When working in the bathroom, it is advisable to buy a moisture-resistant type of sealant.
Silicone-acrylic sealant allows you to make joints elastic and durable, and therefore it can be used without problems for work in the bathroom. With the help of polyurethane sealant, you can create a very durable coating. This type of sealant is characterized by excellent adhesion to other materials.
There are other types (bituminous, thiokol), however, such sealants are not at all suitable for working in a room with high humidity.
In order for the sealing of the bath to be at the highest level, it is necessary to choose the right means for sealing the seams in the room. High-quality bathroom sealant must be waterproof - this is the most important requirement. for bathroom best material a special sanitary composition is considered - this is a sealant, which includes additives against the formation of fungus and the appearance of bacteria.
It is worth saying a few words about the brand of the material. There are professional compositions, and there are household products that cost an order of magnitude cheaper, but are suitable for working in the bathroom. When processing seams, you can choose "Sanitary Titanium", but if you have to work on sealing plastic plumbing, it is best to choose compounds suitable for PVC and acrylic. It is difficult to say which material is considered the best bathroom sealant - it all depends on your goals and your financial capabilities.
The best sealant companies
The most famous company for the production of such materials is the company Ceresit providing its customers with the widest range of products. Such sealants are intended for sealing joints between walls and a bathroom, they can also be used as a special adhesive for ceiling tiles.
The advantages of this company's products include:
- excellent adhesion;
- safety of use;
- plasticity and lack of fear of water.
Sealants are popular CIKI FIX(Turkish production). This product has excellent quality characteristics at the lowest cost. Other advantages of this material include good adhesive properties - with this sealant you can even glue something in the bathroom.
How to seal joints using sealant?
Whatever sealant you use, sealing the joints in the bathroom is almost the same. And here you should remember a few important points. In work, you need to be as careful as possible - improperly applied sealant can ruin appearance products and the room as a whole.
How to seal joints in the bathroom with sealant - step by step diagram
Step 1: Surface preparation
Wipe the seam dry to seal. If the seam lies too deep, then it can be dried with a regular hair dryer. Many experts advise additional surface treatment for better adhesion to the sealant. But you need to remember that after such processing the surface must dry.
Step 4: Remove excess material
To remove the excess, you will need a wet cloth - wrap it around your finger and run it along the seam, removing the remaining silicone. You also need to remove the construction tape, and this must be done before the sealant hardens. Remove the adhesive tape as carefully as possible so as not to damage the layer of applied silicone. If this nevertheless happened, do not be discouraged - correct the damaged place with a damp cloth. If drops of material do get on the walls, they can be easily eliminated with gasoline or paint thinner. Simply soak a piece of rag in the solution and wipe off the dirt. Well, that's it, the sealing of the bath is finished!
Now you just need to wait for the silicone to dry completely, this is about 8-10 hours, after which you can forget about the penetration of water into the seams.
When applying a sealant, you need to take measures to protect the body from exposure to the material, because in any case it is a chemical agent. Therefore, in the process of sealing the seams, be sure to ventilate the bathroom and work with gloves, because it will be very difficult with your hands . Now you know that you can use a bathroom sealant to seal the seams - which one is better is up to you. The main thing is to strictly observe the application technology.
Sanitary bathroom caulk is a great way to seal seams in wet conditions. It contains many components, including silicone, adhesion promoters, plasticizers and other additives that provide high-quality adhesion of the composition to the treated surface.
Silicone sealants - for a long time
To find out which sealant is best for the bathroom, you need to understand what products are generally presented on modern market. The compositions differ in characteristics and performance, which depend on what the sealant is made of.
One of the most popular types of polymers is silicone bathroom sealant. Its positive qualities include:
- effective adhesion with various surfaces;
- resistance to influence of the environment with the increased humidity;
- resistance to temperature extremes and ultraviolet radiation;
- low shrinkage at the level of 2%;
- elasticity, due to which it can be used to seal the joints of moving surfaces;
- durability;
- wide color gamut;
- Possibility of use indoors and outdoors
There are two main types of silicone grouts - neutral and acidic. Neutral sealant is quite expensive, but it can be used in any conditions and treat any type of surface. The acid agent has a specific "acetic" smell, it is able to oxidize surfaces, and therefore it cannot be used for metal processing. Acidic materials can be used to seal plastic, glass, ceramic and wood products that are not subject to oxidation.
One of the best bathroom sealants with silicone in the composition is sanitary. It contains special fungicides that effectively kill fungus and mold. That is why it is believed that it is ideal for processing joints that are constantly in contact with water during operation.
There are also aquarium materials - acidic silicone compounds that do not contain additional components, and therefore are suitable only for working with glass products, they are used to seal showers, to seal aquariums, etc.
Acrylic sealants - cure quickly
The second common type of sealants are acrylic-based compounds. They do not last as long as silicone ones, but they also have important advantages:
- resistance to temperature changes;
- resistance to ultraviolet;
- high adhesion to different surfaces;
- the possibility of coating with paint or varnish;
- hardening occurs within 24 hours.
Since for acrylic products the elasticity of silicone is uncharacteristic, they cannot be used for sealing joints of moving surfaces, since such a seal is highly likely to deform during operation. Best of all, these materials are suitable for filling the space between brick, stone and concrete surfaces, as well as for grouting wide joints.
Not all acrylic preparations are resistant to moisture, therefore, before purchasing the composition, it is imperative to read the instructions from the manufacturer.
Silicone-acrylic compositions include both of these components and combine their positive qualities.
Polyurethane sealants - pros and cons
The third type of sealants are polyurethane compounds. They are well suited for sealing joints between wood, stone, glass and concrete surfaces. The positive characteristics of polyurethane preparations include:
- fast hardening;
- the possibility of using as an adhesive;
- availability of transparent, colored and white options on the market;
- elasticity;
- resistance to external influences;
- possibility of paint coating.
The main disadvantage of polyurethane materials is their aggressive effect on human skin upon contact. When working with such compounds, it is imperative to use personal protective equipment - gloves and a mask.
Almost all formulations on the market include a large number of additional components, which include fillers, expanders, solvents, dyes, mineral oils and others. They add positive characteristics to sealants, but their quantity should be very limited (no more than 10% of the total volume of the material), otherwise they may adversely affect the adhesive and insulating qualities of the goods.
How to choose the right composition for sealing joints in the bathroom and toilet?
The right choice of sealant determines the quality of the seal, fortunately, the rules for choosing such materials are quite simple. To guarantee a successful repair, it is enough to consider the following characteristics of the sealant:
- 1. Color. On the market are materials in white, transparent and various bright shades.
- 2. Moisture resistance. In conditions of high humidity, it is necessary to work with compounds that can withstand the adverse effects of moisture. This information must be indicated on the packaging of the product.
- 3. Appointment. Sealants are household and professional. The professional ones are the best technical specifications, but they are much more difficult to work with.
- 4. Surface type. Some surfaces may require the use of special sealing solutions, for example when working with PVC panels.
- 5. The amount of impurities. Additional components should not be very much.
After analyzing the market for modern sealants, professionals have identified several of the most suitable for use in bathrooms and toilets. The first of these is Ceresit CS 25- universal silicone grout-sealant. One of the most popular products on the market that can be used for both sealing and grouting. It contains antifungal additives, which minimizes the likelihood of mold in the room.
Ceresit CS 25 is characterized by good adhesion to glass, enamelled surfaces and ceramics, it has a characteristic high elasticity and fits perfectly on any surface, including smooth and porous ones. The composition is classified as acidic materials, therefore it should not be used on metals.
If you need a good material for ceramics, you should definitely opt for Belinka Belsil Sanitary Acetate. This silicone sealant is formulated with strong anti-mould additives and has a pasty consistency that makes it easy to work with. The product is characterized by a high viscosity, and therefore will not be washed out in direct contact with water, which makes it ideal for grouting ceramic tiles.
When a quality compound is required for wide seams, pay attention to Moment Germent. This is the name of a whole series of sealing products that are well suited for isolating problematic joints. These sealants allow you to effectively seal even the largest seams and you need to choose between them, taking into account the operating conditions of the room. In rooms with high humidity, it is better to use silicone sanitary Moment or silicone universal; acrylic compositions are suitable for other rooms.
Best anti-mold bathroom sealant - S 400. It contains antifungal additives that are much more effective than other manufacturers. The presence of powerful fungicides almost completely eliminates the likelihood of mold and mildew even in the most problematic areas. In addition, S 400 has excellent adhesion to smooth and non-porous surfaces, moisture resistance and durability. Available in stores in different colors.
Among the compositions with the best adhesion to various surfaces, available sealant can be distinguished CIKI FIX. The silicone composition from the Turkish manufacturer reliably adheres to other materials, almost tightly fixes wood, metals, ceramics and enameled coatings. It is also resistant to moisture and does not wash out with water. However, it does not have antifungal components, therefore, if mold is likely to appear in the room, it is better to choose another material.
The modern market offers everyone huge selection means for sealing and sealing seams. It is necessary to choose among them taking into account future operating conditions and your own individual needs.
Repair and arrangement of the bathroom involves without fail sealing cracks, processing joints between tiles and plumbing. The abundance of moisture is a prerequisite for the appearance of mold and fungus in the walls of the bathroom, damage to the finish.
To minimize the risks of problems, a bathroom sealant is used as a joint filler - a waterproof composition prevents moisture from penetrating plumbing. The task of any owner is to competently approach his choice and learn how to apply it correctly on the surface. This article is devoted to the solution of these issues.
Sealant is a mixture of polymer, filler and hardener.
Depending on which polymer the product is based on, there are several types of sealants: silicone, acrylic, polyurethane and a combined version.
In most cases, bath sealants are applied to a dry surface, with the exception of silicone analogues, which require preliminary moistening of the treated area.
Lineups different types have their advantages and disadvantages, features in the application.
Silicone acid and neutral
Silicone-based sealants are among the most popular. They go well with all types of materials: ceramics and glass, wood and metal, concrete and polycarbonate.
Silicone compounds are used both for the installation of any type of sanitary equipment, and for the external finishing of the bathroom.
Among the undeniable advantages of silicone sealants are:
- resistance to moisture;
- the ability to easily endure high temperature amplitudes, the range of which can vary from -50° to +200°С;
- resistance to aggressive UV rays;
- long service life, which can reach about forty years.
The material has an elastic structure, due to which the fibers can elongate by 900% when stretched. It shrinks no more than 2%.
Silicone sealant, which has an elastic structure, is not afraid of any displacement of the seam, and due to the presence of fungicides - "biological attacks" of mold and fungus spores
Silicone-based compounds are divided into two groups:
- One-component- used for household purposes. They are characterized by the fact that hardening occurs at the moment of contact with air.
- Two-component- Involved in the industrial sector. The hardening of compositions of this type occurs upon contact with the "catalyst".
If, when using two-component compositions, there are no restrictions on the thickness of the putty, then in household one-component sealants, curing is achieved only if the material layer does not exceed 2-15 mm.
Household one-component formulations, depending on the type of vulcanizing agent, are presented in two forms:
- acidic- acid acts as a catalyst;
- neutral- alcohol or ketoxime acts as a vulcanizing agent.
Acidic due to the characteristic smell is also referred to as "acetic". They are used to work with ceramics, wood and plastic. Because acid compounds are capable of oxidizing alloys and metals during the vulcanization process, they are chosen for surface treatments that are resistant to rust.
In terms of price, a universal neutral silicone composition always costs an order of magnitude more expensive than an effective, but more narrow-profile acid analogue
In other cases, preference is given to neutral analogues. They are able to withstand significant temperatures and have a high level of bacterial protection.
The main thing to consider when choosing such compositions is the color, which is predominantly white or transparent. This will minimize dissonance with or with transparent walls.
The popularity of silicone sealants and their demand in bathrooms is justified by an impressive list of positive qualities, these are:
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Composition and properties of sanitary sealant
For installation and repair work in the bathroom, sanitary sealant is most often used. It is a dense viscous mass.
The main purpose of the composition is to fill the voids of the seams, thereby preventing moisture stagnation and protecting the structure from external negative influences.
The main components of silicone sealant for the bathroom are:
- the foundation, the role of which is performed by silicone rubber;
- amplifier– determines the level of strength and viscosity of the material;
- adhesion primer- determines the reliability of the coupling of the composition with the treated surface;
- plasticizer– increases the elasticity of the material;
- vulcanizer- a substance that converts the primary form of the sealant in the form of a paste into a structure resembling plastic rubber.
In addition to the main components to improve performance, the sealant may contain different kind fillers, for example, quartz flour, glass dust or chalk, as well as expanders and dyes.
Due to the presence of special additives after hardening, the composition is able to easily withstand mechanical cleaning and with the use of household chemicals.
Scope of application sanitary sealant pretty wide:
- sealing joints;
- surface bonding;
- isolation of new and renewal of old seams;
- sealing the outlets of the pipe wiring of communications;
- sealing parts that will be exposed to high temperatures.
In an effort to expand the scope of the material, manufacturers add fungicides to the composition. These components are able to destroy mold spores and prevent the appearance of fungus, which is especially important if it is necessary to seal joints in rooms characterized by high humidity.
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If there are old seams on the treated area, then they should be thoroughly cleaned of silicone residues, otherwise they will not allow the sealant to lie flat, filling all the voids
The prepared surface can only be degreased by wiping with a cloth moistened with acetone or alcohol, and dried by blotting clean with a piece of cloth. Using a solvent, degrease metal parts.
To protect the processing site from sloppy blots, which can happen even with an experienced craftsman, a masking tape is glued along the intended seam.
Features of applying the composition
Before applying the composition, cut off the tip of the spout from the tube. To improve the ease of application, the cut is made at an angle of 45 °. The bottle is installed in a mounting gun. In order to protect the mass from premature drying, the cap included in the package is temporarily put on the nozzle.
To get a beautiful and even seam, when working with a mounting gun, it is important to compare the pressing force and moderation of movement when distributing the composition.
The raw material is evenly applied throughout the seam, trying not to interrupt, so that gaps are not created, in the cavities of which dirt and moisture will enter during operation.
Important point! When working with a sealant, it is important to avoid direct contact of the material with the skin and mucous membranes. If the substance still accidentally gets on the mucous membrane, immediately rinse the area with a plentiful portion of cold water.
Particular care should be taken when working with an acid composition. To protect the respiratory organs from acid fumes released during the vulcanization process, work should be carried out by wearing goggles and a protective mask, and the room itself should be regularly ventilated.
Ways to eliminate minor flaws
There is nothing difficult in adjusting the finished seam. To do this, the material is pressed with a narrow spatula, drawing along the applied line. Such manipulations will allow you to better press the sealant to the surface and make the joint smoother.
When planning to level the seam with a spatula, in order to minimize the effect of "toffee", the working canvas of the tool should first be moistened with water
To remove sealant residues that “knock out” beyond the seam, the surface only needs to be wiped with a cloth moistened with water. If this does not help, you can use white spirit, an organic solvent "Antisilicon" or specially designed washer "Foam-840".
After completion of work, the masking tape is peeled off. If work was performed without gloves, hands should be thoroughly washed with soapy water.
After making sure that the applied composition is distributed evenly and accurately, it remains only to wait for it to dry completely. This will take at least a day. But it will be covered with a thin film and the composition will cease to be sticky in half an hour. If the acid version is used, then the room must be thoroughly ventilated before using the bath.
Conclusions and useful video on the topic
Several useful tips on the selection, use and removal of sealant.
Looking for bathroom sanitary sealant? Or do you have experience with a certain formula? Please share information with our readers - leave comments on the article, ask questions and participate in discussions. The contact form is located below.
Since the vast majority of commercially available plumbing sealants are silicone-based, let's talk about them first. In composition, they are of two types: acetate And neutral.
Acetate sealants you can immediately recognize by the characteristic smell of vinegar. This is due to the fact that the polymerization reaction, which begins upon contact with atmospheric moisture, leads to the release of acetic acid, albeit in a small volume, but pure, and not diluted table vinegar. Because of this, such sealants have a pronounced corrosivity, and it is impossible to apply not only on the surface of galvanized iron, copper and aluminum-based alloys, but even next to it, they cannot be unequivocally. This also applies to mirrors - do not even try. But such sealants are cheap - this cannot be taken away from them.
Neutral silicone sealants practically do not smell and do not have an acid reaction. We recommend them in the first place - they are the most versatile and safe.
In any case, the silicone sealant should be extruded from a freshly opened tube in a homogeneous mass, with no signs of delamination during storage. Stratification clearly indicates the low quality of the sealant - it is literally "diluted" during production, and often the liquid fraction of such sealants is also frankly oily. Immediately send such a sealant to the trash can: it will not have normal adhesion or elasticity for sure.
Polyurethane and combined sealants on sale are less common, but this does not mean that they are bad. They are durable, adhere well to different surfaces, and, unlike silicone ones, can be painted if necessary. So, if you found a sealant on such a basis in a store, you should pay attention to it.
In any case, a sealant operating in high humidity needs pronounced fungicidal properties. With it, alas, there are problems and at eminent firms. But in fact, first of all, the characteristic dark spots on the surface of the sealant indicate problems with ventilation - during its normal operation, it is difficult to force the fungus to multiply even on a “tasty” sealant for it.
Good luck with your repair!
