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Bath Sealant: 22 Hot Questions

What is the best bath sealant to buy? At what stages of repair and where exactly can it come in handy? How to properly seal the seam between the bathroom and the wall with a sealant? In my article I will try to answer these and some other questions.

Areas of use

1. Where exactly in the bathroom can a sealant be used?

The most typical applications are:

• Sealing the seam between and the wall to which its tailgate adjoins;
• Filling the same joint between the bathtub or shower and the tiles. Of course, this is only possible with relatively flat walls. Their significant curvature will require a plastic corner sticker;
• Filling the joint between the toilet and the floor. The sealant distributes pressure over the entire surface of the sole and prevents damage to it on uneven floors;
• Grouting joints between tiles. As a rule, in this case, a colored sealant is used to match the tile. It is present in the product range of many renowned manufacturers.

I have successfully applied sealant to solve a few more problems:

• For gluing the joints of homemade furniture;
• For gluing tiles to drywall. Silicone allows it to be glued to materials that have poor adhesion to cement glue - plywood, chipboard, oriented strand board, metal and plastic;

Use tile sealant only on walls. On the floor, the tiles are experiencing high operational loads, and it is very important to distribute the pressure over the maximum area of ​​the base. Therefore, the tiles on the floor are laid only with cement glue applied over its entire surface.

• For sealing prefabricated sewer connections. Rubber O-rings will lose their elasticity over time and the joint will leak. A sealant that fills the gap between the pipe and the socket minimizes the likelihood of leakage;

• For sealing the joint between the shower enclosure and the wall. There is no standard seal there, and a shower jet directed into the joint often leads to the appearance of puddles on the floor;
• To eliminate leaks between the fence and the shower tray. The lower guide for the door leaves a gap when properly mounted, through which water, under certain conditions, enters the floor.

Choice

1. Which is the best bathroom sealant - silicone or acrylic?

For filling joints in contact with water - definitely more waterproof silicone. Acrylic sealant or acrylic putty can only be used when decorating the bathroom ceiling.- for example, for attaching a foam ceiling plinth.

Acrylic putty will help to hide the gaps between the skirting board and uneven walls. It is applied along the edge of the skirting board with the tip of a trowel. The surplus is removed from the wall and baseboard with a rag.

1. Should you prefer a sanitary sealant or a general purpose sealant?

Sanitary differs from universal, as a rule, in the presence of antifungal additives. They come in very handy where the silicone is constantly in contact with water - at the junctions of plumbing fixtures and in the seams of the tile backsplash above the bathroom. Otherwise, a universal sealant can be used.

1. Can I use aquarium sealant to seal joints in the bathroom?

Yes. It differs from the sanitary one by the complete absence of toxic additives.(hardeners, fillers, etc.) with excellent adhesion to smooth surfaces (including glass and glossy tiles).

1. How to choose a manufacturer? Who makes the best silicone sealant?

In my personal rating, Ceresit is in first place, and Moment (Henkel) is in second. Among other manufacturers, I cannot name clear leaders, but this does not mean that the quality of their products does not differ. In general, a simple rule applies: the higher the price, the better the quality of the sealant.

There is one nuance here. Silicones from different manufacturers differ primarily in adhesive properties. With great difficulty I removed Ceresit CS 24, which got on the metal fence of the staircase, but the products of the unknown Uncle Liao keep only on rough surfaces - dry wood, drywall, etc.

Accordingly, a high-quality sealant is necessary when applied to a smooth base, but when gluing tiles to gypsum boards, you can safely purchase the cheapest silicone.

Application

The seam between the sink and the wall

1. How to seal the seam between the sink and the wall with your own hands?

The instruction is not complicated:

• The seam area is cleaned of any dirt, degreased with an aqueous solution of soda, washed with clean water and dried;
• The tube is installed in the pistol;

• The nose of the tube is cut so that the diameter of the hole in it corresponds as closely as possible to the thickness of the seam;
• Strips of masking tape are glued to the shelf of the sink and to the wall. They will save you from having to think about how to clean the surfaces from the silicone hardened on them;
• The spout is inserted into the seam while pressing the pistol grip. The joint is filled to the maximum depth and smoothed out with a damp finger or a narrow rubber trowel.

The seam between the bathroom and the wall

1. How to fill the junction of the bathtub to the wall with silicone?

The same as in the case of the sink, but with one amendment. As a rule, the joint is wider here, and the sealant filling it slides down under its own weight. To prevent this, it is enough to stick a strip of polystyrene below, under the shelf of the bathtub.

1. Do you need a sealant for the corner of the bathtub?

Let's just say: it certainly won't be superfluous. The rubberized edge of the corner is not always tightly pressed against the bath shelf. Moreover: plastic can deform when hot water gets in.

1. How to apply silicone sealant under the corner?

When gluing a corner, this is done like this:

• Two strips of silicone are applied to the cleaned and degreased bath shelf and wall. You should not apply it on the corner itself - you will stain both the bath and the wall;
• The corner is set in place and pressed against the corner between the bathroom and the wall with a long straight rail, steel corner or any other suitable object;
• From above, the entire structure is loaded in any way (for example, several boards laid across the bathtub and a basin of water placed on them).

If the corner is already glued under the tile and you want to close the seam between it and the bathtub, use a spatula 10-15 cm wide. The spatula lifts a section of the corner, after which silicone is applied under it. Then the corner is pressed against the shelf along its entire length in the manner described above.

Tile sticker

1. How to stick tiles on silicone?

I do it like this:

• The wall is cleaned of debris, dust is removed with a vacuum cleaner and primed with a penetrating primer;
• The lower edge of the tile apron is marked;

An important point: it is better to mark out not along the edge of the bath, but according to the level. The bath is usually installed with a slight slope towards the outlet, ensuring full drainage of the water. The deviation of the bottom row of tiles from the horizontal will make the seam between the vertical rows in the corner very untidy.

• Any stop is installed that allows you to align the tiles along the markings. I used for this purpose plastic spacers for the installation of double-glazed windows;

The thinner the seam between the tile and the bathroom, the neater it will look.

• The sealant is applied only to tiles, and not over the entire surface, but in dots or in stripes. I apply strips of silicone around the perimeter of the tile and criss-cross in the middle;
• The tile is pressed against the wall and rubbed against it with a couple of sliding movements;
• In order to maintain a consistent width of the seams, I use plastic crosses.

1. How long does silicone dry under tiles?

You can remove crosses between horizontal rows in about half an hour. After two hours, the tiles cannot be torn off. The drying time is slightly longer than when filling the joints due to the limited air access.

1. How to remove the old tile glued with silicone on the gypsum board?

Only together with a sheet of drywall. The adhesion between the tile and the substrate is in this case much better than when using cement glue.

1. How to remove old tiles glued with silicone on plaster or brick walls?

The tile is chipped off with a chisel and hammer. On a plastered surface, there is a chance to remove part of the tile intact, but the plaster will be noticeably damaged.

Grouting joints between tiles

1. How to rub the seams between tiles with silicone?

The seam is filled in the same way as the abutment of a bathtub or sink. The tile is protected from contact with the sealant with masking tape. A few subtleties:

• The seam must be filled to its full depth. If gaps remain under the silicone, the tightness of the seam may be compromised by accidental damage;
• Transparent silicone can be used along with white or colored grout sealant. Tested personally: the base shines through it only in very bright light and point-blank gaze. Under normal conditions, the seams look quite neat;

• Masking tape should not be used multiple times. It inevitably gets dirty when smoothing the seam. When you re-apply the silicone, it gets on the tile, and again you have to think about what to remove it with.

Toilet installation

1. How to apply undersole sealant when installing a toilet?

The joint is filled with silicone to the maximum depth after installing the plumbing fixture on the standard mount.

The sealant will firmly glue the sole to the surface of the tile, and if you try to remove the toilet, you will tear it off along with several tiles. That is why, instead of silicone, in this case, it is better to use cement diluted to the consistency of very thick sour cream.

1. How to change the toilet bowl installed on the sealant without damaging the tiles?

Before dismantling the plumbing fixture, cut through the sole embedment around the entire perimeter with a sharp knife with a thin blade.

Deleting

1. How to remove the silicone joint between the bathroom and the tile?

Office knife and steel wool. First, the main volume of the seal is cut out, then the sealant smears remaining on the surfaces are carefully removed. Silicone traces are wiped off with moderate force with a washcloth.

The steel wool should not be used for acrylic bathtubs. They will be scratched. In this case, it is better to arm yourself with a damp rag made of coarse cloth or use chemicals, which I will discuss in a few paragraphs below.

1. How do I remove the sealant from my enamel bath?

The same metal washcloth. Residual silicone can be removed with a sponge and any abrasive cleaning agent.

1. How to remove traces of silicone from tiles?

Again, a metal washcloth or abrasive powder for cleaning earthenware and washing dishes. The tile is extremely durable, and it is almost impossible to leave scratches on it.

1. How to remove old sealant from an acrylic bathtub wall abutment?

In this case, the seam is cut out with a clerical knife. But to clean up traces of sealant, you can use a special chemical agent (for example, Penta-840 or CRC Gasket Remover). Silicone dissolves with ordinary white spirit: it is enough to apply it on a rag and thoroughly wipe the place of contamination.

Care

1. How to remove mold on the sealant between the bathroom and the wall?

For this purpose I use the "Whiteness" product based on sodium hypochlorite. It has a disinfecting or whitening effect. The agent can be applied to the seam affected by the fungus with a sponge or sprayed with a flower sprayer; after 10 - 15 minutes, it is washed off along with the remnants of dirt and mold.

1. Is it possible to pre-treat the anti-mold bathroom sealant with something?

As I wrote above, antifungal additives are included in sanitary sealants. Alas, with constant dampness in the bathroom, they do not save: the seams still turn black.

Here are some tips to help reduce the chances of getting fungus:

• Use transparent silicone instead of white... It does not darken even in humid places. The reasons for this are unknown to me, but the fact remains;
• In places that are not in direct contact with water, an antiseptic primer can be used to treat the seams. Alas, it will wash off over the bathroom at the first shower;
• Provide forced ventilation in the bathroom. By reducing the humidity in it, it is often possible to completely forget about the fungus;
• Provide space heating. For this purpose, a water or electric heated towel rail is installed in the bathroom. In one of the bathrooms of my house, there is an aluminum battery connected to the electric boiler.

Conclusion

That's all I wanted to say. As usual, additional thematic materials can be found in the video in this article. Feel free to share your own experiences in the comments. Good luck, comrades!

August 16, 2016

If you want to express gratitude, add clarification or objection, ask the author something - add a comment or say thank you!

Bathroom sealants are widely used. They perfectly seal seams, joints, gaps between tiles and plumbing, protecting them from moisture accumulation. Splashing water and condensation entering such holes create a favorable environment for the development of microscopic fungi and bacteria, incl. and disease-causing. For example, black mold spores infect the respiratory system and cause asthma attacks. Therefore, a fungicide is often added to a bathroom sealant - a special antibacterial agent that inhibits the growth of mold.

Types of sealants

A sealant is a mixture of polymer, hardener, filler, colorant and other substances.

Basically, bathroom sealants are only applied to a dry and clean surface. The exception is silicone sealants, which are used on slightly damp surfaces.

According to the type of polymer used, sealants are divided into the following types.

Silicone

The most demanded, but also the most expensive. It has excellent adhesion to almost all materials, therefore it is suitable for any type of bath and exterior decoration of the room itself. Does not allow moisture to pass through, is not afraid of ultraviolet rays, withstands high amplitudes of temperature drops (from -50 to +200 degrees), has a long service life. It shrinks by no more than 2%.

Divided into:

• acidic;
• neutral.

Acidic ones also have a second name - acetic, because of their characteristic odor. They are comparatively cheaper than neutral ones, but they are not suitable for all metal baths, since, when vulcanized, they can oxidize some metals and alloys. Acidic silicone sealants are used in plastics, wood and ceramics.

In other cases, preference is given to neutral. It is excellent for sealing joints and crevices after renovation work.

Acrylic

It is practically not inferior in terms of service life to silicone, it is also characterized by excellent adhesion to various materials, but it is much cheaper. Convenient to use, resistant to ultraviolet light, does not fade, withstands temperatures from -25 to + 80 ° C, but the seam is not highly elastic. Therefore, its use is not recommended for joints subject to deformation.

But these connections can be covered with varnish, paint or a layer of plaster. Since the scope of application of the sealant is very wide, there are also non-moisture resistant ones. When buying, be sure to pay attention to this.

Polyurethane

The seam is smooth and elastic, resistant to mechanical damage. Also has excellent adhesion to various materials. It is often used when replacing old seams, in particular silicone ones. Top if desired, covered with a layer of varnish or paint. It is imperative to work with him with a mask and gloves.

Silicone-acrylic

Choosing the best

The most preferable is the sanitary one, those. with the addition of fungicides, silicone. It perfectly seals the seams, seals the joints between the plumbing and the wall, fasteners, outlets and inlets of the sewerage pipelines. They are also ideal for renewing old seams.

If the bath is metal, the silicone sealant must be neutral. For acrylic baths, it is preferable to use acrylic, since it is closer in composition.

Properties

In addition to the main polymer, various additives may be included in the composition. Some are added to improve performance, others to reduce the cost.

For example, it can be extenders (expanders), various fillers (chalk, quartz flour) used to fill wide joints, fungicide, organic solvents, dyes, mineral oils, instead of silicone plasticizers, rubber, etc. In any case, the presence of additives is not allowed. more than 10% in the composition.

If there are more than 10% of such additives in the bathroom sealant, you should abandon the purchase, since you can purchase a product of dubious quality with a short service life.

The main properties that any sealant should have: water resistance, durability and safety.

Top manufacturers

There are many brands on the construction market that produce bathroom sealants. It is not difficult and confused. Let's consider the most popular ones.

Tytan (Titanium)

Produced by the Polish company "Selena" - inexpensive, excellent quality, often used for shower cabins. Available in both acrylic and silicone. The only drawback: it is produced in 310 ml tubes.

Moment

Another brand that everyone knows. The country of origin can be Germany, Belgium, Czech Republic or Russia. This is a group of silicone sealants for various purposes. Available in different tube sizes.

Ceresit

This branch of the German giant in the field of chemical production "Henkel" - also proved to be the best. It can be used as an adhesive for attaching decorations, but it is not suitable for sealing aquariums or food surfaces.

CIKI FIX

The sealant of a Turkish company has a low cost, but good quality. Like Ceresit, it can be used as an adhesive.

Application technique

Bathroom sealants can be supplied with special applicators built into the tube for application. If they are not there, then you will need to additionally purchase a special pistol. It can be rechargeable and mechanical. The latter is inexpensive (150-500 rubles) and is excellent for domestic use.

You will also need:

• clean rags;
• alcohol or acetone;
• soft narrow spatula;
• masking tape;
• gloves and a mask for protection.

If you wish, you can purchase a special attachment that fits on the tube. Thanks to it, the simultaneous application and leveling of the sealant occurs.

Wipe the surface dry with a clean cloth and degrease with alcohol or acetone.

So that the seam is even and beautiful, and the sealant itself does not stain the surface, masking tape is glued along it. In principle, it is optional, but desirable.

Now the bathroom sealant itself is being prepared for work. At a tube at an angle of 45 °, the tip is cut off, and the cap from the kit is put on. Then the tube is inserted into the pistol. If it comes with a special applicator, then the gun is not needed.

It is important to squeeze out the sealant smoothly with the same trigger pull. If the seam breaks, voids may remain at the rupture site, into which dirt and moisture will enter.

To make the seam smooth, it is carried out with a damp silicone spatula. They can also correct the seam if it came out crooked. However, some professionals can successfully do without a spatula, simply by gently running a finger along the seam.

After that, it remains to allow the sealant to dry and thoroughly ventilate the room. A distinction should be made between hardening and drying times. These are completely different indicators. Curing time shows how much the sealant will "set", ie. will stop sticking to your hands and harden. Drying time indicates how many hours it takes for the layer to dry completely.

Replacing an old seam

Despite all the laudatory reviews about silicone bath sealant, over time, mold can form on it, and microcracks in the seam itself. Such connections require replacement.

First you need to get rid of the old seam. For this, the silicone is cleaned with a knife, you can use a regular one or purchase a special one for such work. This is the most time consuming and time consuming job.

It is very important to completely remove all of the old layer. If a little silicone remains, then a new layer of a similar sealant will not fit well and the work will have to be repeated. Therefore, sanitary polyurethane sealant is most often used to replace old silicone joints. And to get rid of mold spores, the surface is additionally treated with an antiseptic.

Be sure to check the wall between the bathroom and the wall. If there is mold, not only the joint, but the entire wall is subjected to processing. Due to their difficult accessibility, it is recommended to use products that can be sprayed.

Another good and easy way to remove old sealant is to use special chemicals or silicone removers.

A layer of cleaner is applied to the layer of old silicone sealant, which should be 2-3 times thicker than the silicone layer. The waiting time for the dissolution of the old joint is from 1 to 8 hours. To shorten the time, the available layer of the old silicone suture can be cut off with a knife. After completing the procedure, the silicone is removed with a cloth.

Security measures

Masking tape is used to protect tiles and other surfaces from contact with substances.

All work should be carried out with protective gloves and a mask. It is important to remember that inhaled chemical vapors are very harmful, especially with polyurethane sealants. After grouting, the bathroom should be left open to allow ventilation.

The joints between the bathroom and the wall, as well as the pipe joints, are sealed without fail.

Crack width also matters when choosing a bath sealant. Acrylic is best for wide seams, but with silicone, on the contrary, it is preferable to seal narrow.

Sometimes the sealant gets on the bathroom walls or tiles. You can remove it by rubbing with a cloth soaked in paint thinner or refined gasoline. To do this, moisten a cloth with it and gently rub the dirt. It is not necessary to pour a lot of funds on rags, otherwise stains will remain.

It is best to use sanitary sealants to renovate old joints. And if the problem of mold is always relevant, you should check the ventilation system. Otherwise, you will have to carry out antifungal treatment of the entire room several times a year.

Tubes come in different sizes (80, 280 and 310 ml). For small household jobs, it is better to purchase 2-3 small ones than one large one. It is much more convenient to work with them, it is easier to calculate the consumption.

And finally, don't skimp on bathroom sealant. A cheap one will not last long, which means that over time you will have to update the seams. These are additional costs and labor costs. Remember, the miser pays twice!

A sealant is a paste-like agent, the purpose of which is waterproofing and sealing. Sealants play a special role in the bathroom - they are used to seal tile joints, as well as joints between tiles and a bathroom 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 condensation, splashes and high humidity, which contribute to the development of pathogenic fungi and bacteria.

• setting speed of the composition;
• ease of removal after drying;
• brand value and prevalence;
• mold resistance;
• consistency;
• the degree of adhesion - the quality of adhesion to other materials.

Best silicone sealants

Silicone sealants are traditionally used to seal tile joints in the bathroom. Due to their high degree of adhesion to most materials, they are perfect for all types of baths, showers and external 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 the shrinkage, according to statistics, does not exceed 2 percent.

3 Ravak Professional (white) X01200

Better adhesion and quick drying
Country: Czech Republic
Average price: 600 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.8

One of the best silicone sealants for the bathroom, which experts recommend using when installing bathtubs, shower enclosures, washbasins, trays. Ordinary buyers rarely purchase it because of 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 likelihood of leakage. Does not wash out over time, does not change color. Thanks to antifungal additives, it prevents the formation of mold. It dries quickly - it hardens in an hour, but before using the plumbing for the first time after sealing it is better to wait a full day. On sale you can find a colorless and white sealant from a Czech company.

Advantages:

• fast drying;
• excellent adhesion;
• specially designed for plumbing and bathrooms;
• does not wash out and does not change color;
• has antifungal properties;
• sealing joints without leaks.

Flaws:

• high price.

2 Dow Corning 7091

The best shower enclosure sealant
Country: USA
Average price: 967 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.9

Dow Corning was named the best sealant for showers and boxes according to the results of user voting. It can be safely called a glue-sealant, since the insulation is highly reliable and durable. Excellent adhesion prevents water from seeping out, and the absence of mold tendency makes the composition even more attractive to buyers. He is not afraid of high room humidity and temperature changes, as evidenced by rave reviews.

Advantages:

• high-quality waterproofing of boxes and shower cabins;
• durable adhesive sealant;
• high degree of adhesion;
• does not contribute to the reproduction of microorganisms;
• resistance to humidity and temperature changes.

Flaws:

• high price.

1 Kim Tec Silicon Acetat 101E

The optimal combination of low cost and excellent quality
Country: Germany
Average price: 250 rubles.
Rating (2019): 5.0

Transparent silicone sealant used for various types of work, including for sealing in high humidity conditions. Great for baths, showers and other plumbing fixtures. You can work with a variety of materials - wood, concrete, glass, ceramics, plastic. According to user reviews, this is a very high quality silicone sealant with pronounced anti-fungal properties. Withstands exposure to very high temperatures, so it can be used not only in the bathroom, but also in the sauna. The final hardening speed is 1 to 7 days.

Advantages:

• anti-fungal properties;
• versatility;
• elasticity;
• durability of the connection;
• the optimal combination of low cost and excellent quality.

Flaws:

• persistent vinegar smell that lasts up to 10 hours.

Best Sanitary Sealants

Sanitary sealants are a type of silicone sealant. Their feature is increased protection against various environmental factors. Their composition is enriched with fungicides. It is the best choice for those who need to repair and seal joints between plumbing fixtures, tiles and ceramics, pipe routing, etc. They are also excellent 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 distinguished 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 is characterized by a high degree of adhesion, elasticity, water resistance and durability. Especially often in reviews they mention such a characteristic of a 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 the reproduction of microorganisms;
• excellent adhesion;
• water resistance;
• elasticity;
• color solutions.

Flaws:

• the complexity of the search for 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 anti-fungal effect. Due to the pasty consistency, it does not flow during the application of the composition, but lays down evenly, filling the seam, isolating it qualitatively. Users note that the sealant does not shrink or 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 adhesion rates, that is, adhesion. Minor disadvantages mentioned by buyers are the long curing time and also the vinegar smell.

Advantages:

• high-quality adhesion to ceramics;
• uniform application;
• does not shrink;
• pasty viscous consistency;
• anti-fungal effect.

Flaws:

• vinegar smell;
• long solidification.

1 MAKROFLEX SX101

Best Sanitary Sealant
Country: Estonia
Average price: 270 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.8

Sanitary sealant from Macroflex has the best antiseptic properties. The experts unanimously gave preference to it, appreciating the degree of adhesion and resistance to temperature and humidity extremes. In particular, it is recommended for sealing joints and cracks in bathrooms, saunas and baths. It contains antiseptic ingredients that increase resistance to fungal growth. A small drawback is, according to users, a pungent smell that lasts 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.

Flaws:

• unpleasant odor;
• difficulty in removing 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. A disadvantage to be aware of is that the seam is not as elastic. Experts do not recommend using acrylic sealant for joints subject to deformation.

3 VGP acrylic white, 310 ml

All-in-One Bath & Home Sealant
Country Russia
Average price: 120 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.7

This agent is used for sealing especially important joints 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, toilets, shower cabins. Provides a strong attachment to most of the most commonly used materials - metal, PVC, ceramics, 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;
• anti-fungal properties;
• the possibility of painting with water-based paints.

We could not find any shortcomings.

2 Moment Herment

Ideal for wide seams
The country: Germany (produced in Russia)
Average price: 152 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.7

Moment Herment is the most optimal acrylic agent for problematic joints and wide seams in the bathroom. Users note the good adhesion of the compound, the improved elasticity of the joints and the quality of their filling. The sealant is moisture resistant, perfectly insulates, serves for a long time. In the reviews, they pay attention to the fact that the consistency becomes unnecessarily thick when the composition is close to the end of the shelf life. A distinctive feature is frost resistance, so that it can be used both inside and outside. An additional advantage is that paint lays well on top of 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.

Flaws:

• becomes too thick towards the end of the shelf life.

1 Ceresit CS 7

Better elasticity of seams
Country: Turkey
Average price: 140 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.8

Sealant from Ceresit is a popular compound for sealing joints when installing plumbing and laying tiles. A feature of this tool is the increased elasticity of the seams, which provides high-quality and durable insulation, despite the acrylic type. After drying, you can paint the sealant in a color that is actual in design, which is especially popular with users. The composition is characterized by good resistance to humidity in the bathroom, and a possible change in temperature conditions. Ceresit is one of the most famous brands, according to reviews, whose recognition has a positive effect on the sales of this brand's product. To avoid cracking, it is not recommended to apply in a large layer.

Advantages:

• popular brand;
• elasticity of the seams;
• high quality insulation;
• resistance to moisture and temperature extremes;
• the possibility of staining the sealant.

Flaws:

• may crack when applied in large layers.

The best all-round sealants

General purpose sealants are considered the best in that they can be used for a variety of household chores. Their scope is not limited to the bathroom. General purpose sealants are suitable for most common materials. They can be used for bath or shower installation, joint sealing and much more.

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 glue. It provides excellent adhesion to a variety of substrates, even if used underwater. It glues and seals at the same time. Due to the absence of a solvent in the composition, it does not have a pungent odor, so it can be used even in unventilated rooms. The sealant has a long service life, does not darken, withstands high temperatures, adverse conditions.

Advantages:

• versatility;
• excellent adhesion to any materials;
• glues even under water;
• there is no pungent smell.

Disadvantages: high cost

2 MASTERTEKS PM universal 290ml white

Fast curing and excellent adhesion
Country: Poland
Average price: 250 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.8

One-component acid-type agent for various repairs. Has excellent adhesion to ceramics, glass, metal, wood, enamel, plastic. It can be used to process the seams between tiles, joints when installing plumbing, to close up cracks in window frames. The sealant hardens rather 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 to any materials;
• long-term preservation of elasticity;
• slight shrinkage of the seam;
• resistance to chemicals.

Flaws:

• 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 an uncured state, it is very easy to wash off the hands, does not irritate the skin. It dries completely in about a day, but this indicator largely depends on the temperature and humidity of the air. During use, it does not darken, does not lose elasticity. If necessary, the fully cured sealant can be varnished or painted.

Advantages:

• can be used for any household work;
• dries quickly, remains elastic for a long time;
• can be varnished and painted;
• does not darken over time.

Flaws:

• high price;
• no antifungal additives.

High humidity in the bathroom is inevitable. It leads to the gradual destruction of unprotected parts of decoration and furniture, creates favorable conditions for the occurrence of mold and mildew. In this case, the joints of those surfaces where water often gets into suffer especially.

Previously, in order to prevent the destructive effect of moisture, grout was used, and now the problem is solved with the help of sanitary sealants.

Peculiarities

These compounds completely fill gaps and cracks, prevent mold growth, and are resistant to temperature fluctuations and water. Craftsmen use them to strengthen the fixing of plumbing to the wall or floor. In addition, sealants are also used for outdoor work.

The sealants include: polymer base (silicone, acrylic, polyurethane), adhesion enhancers, plasticizers, dyes. Some have antiseptic additives. There are products with organic solvents and mineral oils. The base substance determines the characteristics of the sealant, its area of ​​use, advantages and disadvantages.

Sealing agents differ not only in composition, but also in packaging.

• Tubes containing 60 to 100 grams of sealant. Sold with a cone nozzle. The advantage of packaging is small volume: there is no need to overpay for a larger amount of sealant when you need to close one gap. But it is inconvenient to work with tubes, since it is difficult to control the pressure force.
• Tubes with a volume of 300-600 milliliters for a construction gun. The most convenient form of packaging for household needs. Using a pistol allows you to distribute the composition more evenly.
• Aluminum tubes, buckets and barrels. Suitable only for professionals. Such volumes will be excessive even for owners of private houses.

Most often, you can see white or transparent products. In fact, their color range is wider - up to 20 colors. If desired, you can find sealants in black, gray, brown, blue, green.

Kinds

Let's start a detailed review of the types of sealing compounds with the most demanded ones - based on silicone. They are acidic (acetic) and neutral. Acidic ones are cheaper, but they have a serious drawback - a pungent odor. When working with them, it is necessary to constantly ventilate the room. Another important point: the scope of their application is limited to materials that do not oxidize (ceramics, glass, plastic, stainless steel). And metals deteriorate during contact with acetic sealants.

Aquarium sealants also belong to acidic compounds - this is a specific group, they are used only for working with glass.

Some examples of acidic sealants:

• Ceresit 25 - reliably protects against microorganisms, is well distributed over smooth and porous surfaces, holds tiles, glass, enamel;
• Bison silicone universal - refers to waterproof, even withstand the action of sea water, dries up in 15 minutes;
• Ottoseal s100 - the appearance of the seam remains unchanged for 4–5 years, 16 colors to choose from;
• Tytan silicone sanitary - its composition is improved with bactericidal substances;

There are no acids in neutral sealants. Once on the surface, they do not enter into a chemical reaction with the material. This makes the work more pleasant, but the price of these compounds is also higher.

Some of them:

• Somafix construction is a rare white compound that does not turn yellow;
• Ravak Professional - with anti-fungal additives;
• Lugato Wie Gummi is also bactericidal, the palette has sixteen colors.

The good thing about silicone formulations is that they:

• durable, do not change color over time;
• tolerate high humidity and sudden temperature changes;
• create reliable adhesion to various surfaces, including metal, plastic, glass, ceramics;
• elastic, and therefore they can be used when processing movable joints: a wall joint with a bath or shower, downpipes;
• dry within 30 minutes, finally harden in 36–48 hours.

But the compounds in this group can be affected by the fungus. To protect joints in very humid rooms, it is better to use sanitary or aquarium compounds with antiseptic additives. Sanitary sealant is most suitable for protecting joints that are frequently exposed to water.

Acrylic sealants are less suitable for bathroom work. When dry, they shrink strongly, so the seam, which is often in contact with water, leaks. The connection turns out to be tough and unreliable: it collapses already at a stretch of 10%.

Acrylic and steel bathtubs (or shower trays) change size slightly when heated, which makes the connection to the wall moveable. The acrylic sealant layer will crack soon.

But for filling cracks, cracks and other fixed joints, it is convenient to use such compositions. They can also be used to process the edges of furniture and the gap between the sink and the wall.

Advantages of acrylic sealants:

• chemically neutral composition, does not react with surfaces, is not hazardous to health;
• have good adhesion to plastic, glass, metal, concrete, brick and other building materials;
• dries up in 15–20 minutes, hardens in a day;
• on top you can apply putty, paint, varnish;
• withstands temperatures from -20 to +80 degrees.

Another nice thing is that acrylic compounds are cheaper than others. But the composition for the bathroom must necessarily be moisture resistant, even if water does not constantly flow onto it: the product may suffer from condensation or accidental splashes.

Here are examples of acrylic formulations:

• KIM TEC Silacryl 121 is a moisture resistant sealant that can withstand prolonged exposure to water;
• Dap Alex Plus - highly elastic siliconized acrylic compound with fungicides;
• "Moment Herment", Penosil - for sealing cracks and joints that do not interact with water.

However, manufacturers have found a way to "bring to mind" the compositions of acrylic: they made them siliconized. Silicone acrylic sealants are more flexible and last longer than acrylic sealants and are just as harmless. In addition, they can be used to glue different surfaces.

Another group of products is polyurethane. For adhesion strength, they are called adhesive sealants.

In addition, they differ:

• elasticity;
• lack of drying shrinkage;
• resistance to low temperatures, ultraviolet light, humidity.

But working with these compounds in the bathroom is difficult: their poor adhesion to plastics will interfere. They will qualitatively close the joint between the wall and a metal bathtub or faience washbasin, but in order to install an acrylic bathtub, you will have to look for another remedy.

There are other restrictions as well:

• the moisture level of the treated surface should not exceed 10%, otherwise a preliminary primer will be required;
• the maximum permissible temperature in the area of ​​use is +120 degrees.

Compounds with polyurethane are preferred over acrylic. And when choosing between compositions with polyurethane or silicone, it is advisable to focus on the surface material and the location of the seams.

Polyurethane sealants have no odor, but they are dangerous to the skin, so before work, it is advisable to stock up on protective equipment: gloves, a mask.

A few examples:

• Polyurethane 50 FC - dries in 10 minutes, creates good adhesion to plastic;
• Bostik PU 2638 - adhesive sealant, available in white, gray, brown and black;
• Tytan rubber - well suited for repairing joints made with silicone compounds.

A new type of products - with MS polymers - combines the properties of silicone and polyurethane sealants. These products form strong but elastic connections. The seams can withstand up to 25% stretch. They have good adhesion to all building materials, including plastic. They do not spread, they fit equally well on horizontal and vertical surfaces. Thanks to this, they are convenient to handle shower cabins.

Let's list the rest of the properties:

• practically odorless, there are no solvents in the composition;
• dry at room temperature within 10-30 minutes;
• do not deteriorate under the influence of ultraviolet radiation, do not fade over time;
• withstand prolonged contact with fresh and salt water;
• block the development of mold and mildew;
• treated seams can be painted.

Means with MS polymers are available from many large manufacturers. Among them:

• 1000 usos - has anti-mold properties, available in 10 colors;
• Bisin MS Polymer - glues any materials: from glass to brick, from rubber to iron;
• Soudaseal 240 FX - suitable for bathrooms, toilets and kitchens, cures in 10 minutes;
• Bostic Soperfix - waterproof, indispensable for work under water, in rooms with very humid air (even in swimming pools);
• Tecfix MS 441 - protects against chlorine and sea water, there are additives against microorganisms.

The compositions may differ due to additives that impart certain properties. The price of such sealants is higher, but the quality of the joints fully justifies it.

The only drawback of these formulations is that they cannot be removed with a solvent.

Scope of application

People are often interested in which areas of the bathroom need to be treated with sealants and how to choose the right product in each case. In this we will figure it out now.

First of all, you need to protect the cracks from water:

• near a bath or shower, where they border the floor and walls;
• the wall and back of the washbasin;
• between the floor and the toilet.

A universal remedy for this is silicone sealant. You can use formulations with polyurethane or MS polymers. But it is better not to use acrylic: the seams will quickly deteriorate.

Sealant adhesives will replace conventional adhesives.

This property can be used:

• when assembling sewers - they increase the strength of the connections;
• for the treatment of the shower stall - they fill the gap between the door and the tray so that during washing the water does not run down to the floor;
• when decorating walls with tiles - if you want to glue tiles to metal, plastic, plywood, drywall, chipboard;
• for repairing cracks in tiles and cracks along door jambs, fixing a ceiling plinth - an acrylic compound will better cope with this task.

You can also use a sealant as a grout: fill the joints between the tiles with it. The connection will be more elastic and durable. If you want to revive the interior a little, buy a colored sealant. You can choose a color that is in contrast to the tile or is similar in color, but different in shade.

Sealants are also useful in the kitchen. They process all kinds of joints around the sink, protect pipe connections, and use them instead of glue. Also, sealants are needed when you need to change plumbing equipment.

Criterias of choice

Experts say that the right sealant will greatly increase the chance of getting long-lasting and beautiful seams. This is especially true for the bathroom. Constant fluctuations in temperature, humid air, a high risk of mold - not every composition will pass these tests.

There are a few things to consider when shopping for a sealant to increase your chances of not wasting your money.

• In rooms with high humidity, it is recommended to use only moisture-resistant compounds, and preferably with a fungicide that stops the growth of fungus.
• It is more convenient to work with a product with a thick pasty consistency, especially on vertical surfaces.
• Most of the white sealants turn yellow, but this does not happen with transparent ones.
• In a good product, the volume of additional components does not exceed 10%. Then they will not affect the insulating properties.

• It is better to choose not the cheapest, but high-quality sealant from a trusted manufacturer (Ceresit, Belinka, CIKI Fix, TYTAN, Moment).
• If there is a choice between a professional and reliable household composition, it is better to dwell on the second: it is easier to work with it in everyday life.

How to apply?

The sealing process can be roughly divided into three parts: preparation of products and surfaces, application of sealant and finishing. Do not skip the first and last parts of the process - the results of hastily carried out work will have to be redone more than once.

Remove from the surface anything that could impair adhesion and provoke fungus and mold: dirt, remnants of the old sealant. Some masters advise degreasing it with alcohol or nail polish remover. After that, everything must be wiped off, and the deep seams must be dried with a hairdryer. Traces of acrylic and silicone compounds can be easily cleaned with solvents (Penta-840, Silicone Remover and others). Residual polyurethane sealant can be wiped off with a wire brush.

Bathroom refers to this type of room where moisture is constantly present in large quantities, as well as steam and large temperature fluctuations. It is for this reason, when repairing a bathroom, special moisture-resistant materials are selected for work, which includes a bathroom sealant. In this article, we will analyze what types of sealants are and which ones are better to use for waterproofing joints in a room based on the reviews and recommendations of experts.

Modern sealants for the bathroom are very popular and many repairs cannot do without this material. They are used mainly for sealing joints between the bathroom and the adjacent wall surfaces, as well as for gluing decorative corners.

It is known that a large accumulation of dampness in some parts of the bathroom not only leads to the destruction of the finishing material, but also creates a favorable environment for the growth of mold, which saturates the air with its pores and can cause disease. This is why an anti-mold bath sealant is used to block moisture from reaching areas such as the space under the bathtub. There is very little or no ventilation in this area, and this creates an ideal environment for bacteria to grow in the presence of moisture.

What is silicone sealant

Before choosing a sealant, you need to find out what types of them are and in what places they are used. Today, a sealant is called a liquid viscous substance, which basically contains a polymer material as a binder for various modifying components that make up its composition. Depending on the polymer base, sealants can be:

• silicone;
• bituminous;
• acrylic;
• rubber or rubber;
• polyurethane;
• thiokol.

For your information. Not all of the listed materials are used to work in the bathroom. The most commonly used polyurethane, acrylic or silicone bathroom sealant.

The physical characteristics of the sealants are given by the composition of their main filler, and various additional components only enhance certain qualities of the substance. Some of the listed types are not recommended for use in the bathroom as a waterproofing of joints, therefore below we will consider only a sealant for joints in the bathroom and other works in the bathroom.

The main types of bathroom sealants

• silicone;
• acrylic;
• acrylic silicone;
• polyurethane.

Each of these materials has its own characteristics and is suitable for different cases, so which sealant to choose is up to you based on the circumstances.

Silicone sealant

Silicone is a tile sealant in the bathroom, which is mainly used for sealing joints between tiles and has excellent water repellency. This material can withstand sudden temperature changes and at the same time does not lose its physical properties. This type is also called a sanitary sealant, since it is inert to the effects of most chemicals. It can be used in rooms with a constant temperature of -50 to 180 degrees Celsius.

Important. There are two types of sanitary bathroom sealant, acidic and neutral.

The acidic composition has a characteristic pungent odor, similar to the smell of vinegar and is much cheaper than a neutral one. However, this composition, when interacting with metals, causes oxidation, so they can be used on a metal surface with a protective coating or stainless steel. A neutral silicone-based bathroom sealant costs a little more than its counterpart, but it does not have such a reaction with metals as an acidic one, and it does not have a pungent odor. This compound is often used as an acrylic bath sealant.

Acrylic sealant

This composition does not have pungent odors, sometimes even odorless. Its cost is lower than its silicone counterparts, but this acrylic bathroom sealant cannot be used in places that may be subject to slight mechanical stress or deformation during operation. This is due to the fact that when solidified, this material has no elasticity and begins to crack when deformed.

For your information. The acrylic composition is also called an antifungal sealant, since it contains components that prevent the emergence and development of pathogenic microflora. However, due to its fast curing properties and providing a strong joint, it is often used as a floor sealant.

Acrylic Silicone Sealants

This waterproof bathroom sealant combines the best qualities of the two materials described above, as it simultaneously provides protection against moisture, withstands large temperature differences and retains elasticity when solidified, which allows it to withstand tightness at low deformation loads. By its color, it is most often a white sealant and can be used both for sealing tile joints and for sealing the joint between the bathroom and the wall.

For your information. The acrylic compound has good adhesion properties and is often used as a bathroom adhesive and sealant. Also, manufacturers produce this type of material in various colors, which allow you to choose the right color for sealing tile joints.

Polyurethane sealants

Polyurethane bathroom sealant resembles silicone in its physical properties, but it has high adhesive qualities and can be used for gluing decorative corners. It is a transparent sealant and is very often used as a repair material for tile joints, as well as butt joints that were previously filled with silicone sealants.

How to choose the right sealant

If you want to choose the best sealant for sealing tile joints or the joint between the bathroom and adjoining surfaces, then when going to the store and choosing the right material, consider the following recommendations from specialists:

• the composition, first of all, must have moisture resistant characteristics, since there are compositions of sealants without waterproof properties and they differ only in the corresponding recording on the tube;
• try to buy products that contain antibacterial additives. Of course, such a sealant will cost a little more, but it's worth it;
• pay attention to how much the sealant costs. A good sealant cannot be cheap, and if you see the material you need at a significantly reduced cost, then you have either an outright fake, or the composition has exhausted its shelf life;
• try to buy brands from trusted manufacturers. Today, the most trusted are domestic manufacturers such as "Sanitary Titan" or "Moment". For laying plastic corners, choose a material with the inscription "For PVC and acrylic products".

Having studied the material proposed in the article, you already know which sealant to use for your needs. And to consolidate the material, we suggest you watch the video material attached below.