How to reseal a bathtub or shower tray is a PDF step-by-step guide.
A mouldy bathtub can lead to leaks.I had to replace my bathtub seal.Resealing your tub can cost a lot.You can save some money by tackling this on your own.It makes the bathroom look cleaner.I can't relax in a bath if the seal is bad.In this post, I share my tips for resealing bathtub or shower tray.
You can use a knife or a blade to remove old sealant.Don't scratch the surface of the bath when removing it.I use a blade to cut along the top and bottom of the old sealant and then glide it out.I removed any remaining silicone sealant.
Use warm soapy water to clean the area, as this will help the new sealant to grip.Before applying new silicone sealant, make sure the bathtub is fully dry.Before applying the new sealant, I like to clean mine the night before and leave it to dry overnight.
You will need to weight the bathtub down if you don't fill the bath tup with water.This helps stop the sealant from cracking and helps you apply it correctly.Water splashes from the area you need to seal should be wiped away.
The thick bead of sealant should be applied evenly around the edges of your bath.When using the gun, apply even pressure and a steady speed.If you get wobbly edges, don't worry, you can fix it.
I use a spray bottle to wash.I spray my fingers with the washing up liquid to smooth the edges.Remove any excess sealant.
It is important to leave the water in the bath.It can take up to 48 hours to cure.As many factors can contribute to the drying time, please follow the instructions of the manufacturer.
It can be difficult to seal your bathtub.Here are some questions you may have.I will update them in this post if you have any other questions.I will find the information for you, even though I am not an expert.
Don't apply new silicone sealant over the old one.No matter how much new sealant you apply, the damage underneath will still be there because the old one may have split or had damage.It will be harder to get a neat line if you apply a new sealant over the old.You don't have to wait as long as you think to get old silicone out of your tub.
Adding water to your bathtub will help prevent the new sealant from cracking when you take a bath.Before emptying the bathtub, allow the newly applied sealant to cure.It can take 24 to 48 hours to dry.
Depending on how often you use your shower, you should be able to reseal it every two years.I got 3 years from mine.If you notice a leak in your shower, you should investigate the damage to your seal.
Silicone sealants take about 48 hours to cure.The seal can be exposed to water.There are a few factors that can affect curing time.The back of your silicone sealant has more information.
I slice the top and bottom of the old sealant using a blade.I pulled the old silicone sealant away.I use my blade to remove any remaining sealant.To apply a thick layer of new caulk, you need to remove the existing caulk.
It takes 24 hours to set the sealant.After leaving the water in mine for 24 hours, I had no issues with the sealant cracking.
The high levels of water in your bathroom can cause mold.If you can keep the bathroom dry, you should be able to prevent this.mould can be kept at bay by regular cleaning.You can use bleach to remove mold.
I give my small bathroom a budget refresh in this video.It is amazing how a lick of paint, a new sealant and a clean house can do.
I hope you found it useful.Take the time to properly prep and apply your new bathtub sealant to prevent leaks.I try to allow myself time to tackle the job and avoid quick fix products.If you found the post useful, please share it with us and we'll give you any additional questions.
Thank you for posting this!It makes sense to put water in the tub.I only have one length of the tub to do.I will check in other places as well.You are an inspiration.
I would add water as it will add more weight to the tub.Good luck with your project.