What is a shower tray seal?
A shower tray seal is a waterproof barrier that prevents water from leaking underneath or around the edges of a shower tray. Fitting a shower tray seal involves applying sealant or tape between the tray and the surrounding walls or floor to create a watertight barrier. This is usually a specialised waterproof adhesive or silicone sealant, designed specifically to be used in bathrooms.
Signs your shower tray needs resealing
Over time, the sealant around your shower tray can break down due to constant exposure to water, cleaning products, and general wear and tear. Knowing the signs of a failing seal helps you to act early, preventing leaks, mould build-up, structural issues, and long-term water damage.
Water leaking outside the shower
Water leaking outside of the shower is a sign that your shower tray needs resealing. Puddles, softer areas of the floor, or damp patches outside the shower tray suggest the sealant isn’t containing water properly. This can cause long-term damage to walls or flooring if left unaddressed.
Visible mould and mildew
Dark spots or mildew around the sealant in your shower can cause unpleasant odours and stains. This suggests that moisture is getting trapped, which is a common sign that the shower tray seal has failed. Resealing the shower tray can prevent mould from spreading and protect the area.
Cracked or discoloured sealant
If the sealant looks damaged with cracks, is peeling, or has changed colour, it’s no longer creating a watertight seal. Therefore, the tray will need resealing to avoid water seeping through and damaging the surfaces underneath.
A musty or damp smell
A persistent damp odour reduces hygiene and comfort in a bathroom. Hidden water leaks behind the shower tray are a likely cause, and so resealing can help stop moisture build-up and eliminate unpleasant smells.
Equipment you’ll need to seal a shower tray
Before beginning to seal your shower tray, it’s important to ensure you have the correct equipment. This includes:
- Bathroom sealant
- Sealant gun
- Sealant remover
- Masking tape
- Utility knife or scraper
- Cleaning supplies, such as cloths and rubbing alcohol
- Sealant smoothing tool, such as caulk and fillers
Preparing to seal your shower tray
Proper preparation is essential to create a watertight, long-lasting shower tray seal. Carrying out the following steps will ensure the new sealant adheres correctly, helping to prevent any leaks down the line.
Remove the old sealant
Removing the old sealant is an essential step before sealing your new shower tray. Use a utility knife or scraper to gently slice away as much of the sealant as possible. Do this carefully, and wear gloves to protect your hands. Ensure you don’t scratch or damage the surface.
Clean the area
Once the majority of the sealant has been removed from the surface, the next step is to clean the area. Use some white spirit on an old cloth and rub over the excess sealant until it comes off or dissolves. The area must be completely clean with no excess left behind.
Tape off the edges
Applying masking tape along the edges of the shower tray is essential for precision, creating a clean, straight line for your new sealant. This will make the process easier and result in a neater finish.
Check or replace the shower tray
Before resealing the shower tray, it’s important to check its condition. Look for any cracks, chips, or signs of movement. If the tray is damaged or unstable, it should be repaired or replaced before sealing. You can browse our range of high-performance shower kits and accessories to ensure a reliable and long-lasting finish.
Common shower tray sealant mistakes & how to avoid them
While with the right guidance sealing a shower tray can be a simple task, there are tips you should be aware of before beginning. This will enable you to avoid common mistakes, ensuring the process runs smoothly.
Using the wrong type of sealant
Not all sealants are suitable for bathrooms, and so it’s important to use the correct ones for a successful application. Using a high-quality, silicone bathroom sealant that’s both waterproof and mould-resistant is essential, especially for wet areas.
Skipping surface preparation
Failing to clean the area thoroughly can result in soap scum or old residue being left behind. This will interfere with adhesion. Therefore, properly cleaning and removing the old sealant is essential for longer lasting results.
Applying sealant to a damp surface
Sealing over a damp area prevents the sealant from bonding properly, leading to early failure. Removing the previous sealant is important, but you must ensure that the surface is completely dry before application for a watertight seal.
Applying too much or too little sealant
Applying too much or too little sealant can both cause their own set of problems. Too much sealant can lead to a messy finish, while not enough may not seal gaps effectively. Using a sealant gun to create a steady, even bead and masking tape for a clean finish will enhance both performance and appearance.
How to reseal your shower tray
Once you’ve gathered all the necessary materials and tools, follow these steps to reseal your shower tray:
Step 1: Remove the old sealant
If you haven’t already, you need to use a sealant remover, scraper, and utility knife to remove the old sealant. Carefully cut away the existing sealant, ensuring you don’t damage the shower tray and surrounding tiles.
Step 2: Clean and dry the area
After removing the old sealant, the area should be cleaned thoroughly. Use a mild detergent to eliminate any soap scum, mould, or debris. The surface must be completely dry before applying new sealant to ensure proper adhesion.
Step 3: Apply masking tape
Applying masking tape along the edges where the shower tray meets the wall helps to create clean and straight lines. Excess sealant is also prevented from spreading onto unwanted areas, resulting in a neat and professional finish.
Step 4: Prepare the sealant
Preparing the sealant involves cutting the nozzle of the sealant tube at a 45-degree angle to match the width of the gap you’re sealing. Loading the tube into a sealant gun will make this step even easier, creating a more even application. Taking the time to properly prepare the sealant helps ensure a neat finish and a long-lasting watertight seal.
Step 5: Apply the new sealant
You’re now ready to apply the new sealant to the shower tray. Start from one corner and spread the sealant in a continuous, steady motion along the joint between the shower tray and the wall. Ensure you maintain consistent pressure to create an even bead.
Step 6: Smooth the sealant
Smoothing the sealant helps to remove excess sealant and enhance the seal’s appearance. Use a sealant smoothing tool or a wet finger to gently smooth the bead of silicone sealant, ensuring it fills the gap. Caulk and fillers can be used to successfully create a flawless sealing step.
Step 7: Remove the masking tape
You can now remove the masking tape while the sealant is still wet. This prevents the sealant from pulling away and maintains clean edges. Do this carefully and use a 45-degree angle to achieve the best results.
Step 8: Allow the sealant to cure
Letting the sealant cure is crucial to ensure it sets properly. Avoid using the shower until you’ve waited for the amount of time specified by the manufacturer (typically between 24 and 48 hours). Once the sealant is dried, you’ve successfully created a durable, watertight barrier.
Discover bathroom sealants at IronmongeryDirect
This guide has taught you how to successfully seal a shower tray, as well as the signs to identify a failing seal and the common mistakes to avoid. All that’s left to do now is transform your bathroom and seal your shower tray with ease with our wide range of bathroom sealants from IronmongeryDirect.
FAQs
Can you reseal a shower yourself?
Yes, resealing a shower is a task many DIYers can take on themselves, provided they have the right tools and confidence to do so. The process involves removing the old sealant, cleaning the area thoroughly, and applying a fresh bead of waterproof sealant. If you don’t feel confident enough to complete the task yourself, it’s recommended to hire a professional.
How often should I reseal my shower tray?
Shower trays should be resealed every 1-2 years, depending on their usage and wear. Checking regularly for signs of mould, cracks, or peeling will give you a good indication of when your shower tray needs resealing.
What are the signs I need to reseal my shower?
Common signs that you need to reseal your shower include visible mould, discolouration, peeling or cracked sealant, and water leaking outside the shower area. If you notice any of these, the best course of action is to address these signs early to avoid long-term damage.
How can I remove the old rubber from my shower tray?
To remove old rubber or silicone sealant from a shower tray, use a sealant remover and a utility knife or scraper to cut away the old sealant. This should be done with caution to ensure you don’t damage the shower. Remove all residue and clean the area thoroughly before applying a new sealant.
How long does it take for the shower tray sealant to dry?
The exact time it takes for a shower tray sealant to dry depends on the product, but it’s typically between 12 to 24 hours. The instructions on the sealant you’re using will tell you how long it needs to fully cure. For the best results, avoid using the shower during this time.
What type of sealant should I use on my shower tray?
You should use a high-quality waterproof silicone sealant specifically designed for bathrooms. This will ensure your shower tray is sealed effectively, offering long-term protection against water damage. Mould-resistant formulas are ideal for preventing black spots and maintaining a cleaner finish.