Bathroom Sealants – What’s The Best One To Use?
Bathroom Sealants have become a headache for choice. Did you know that most sanitary silicone brands you find on Google are good enough for the job?
The key to a long-lasting silicone bead is influenced more by the environment in which it is placed.
Where premature silicone failure occurs, in my experience, poor installation is the likely cause.
In fact, it is quite rare that I have ever needed to replace silicone unless it failed due to external factors.
Rather than getting hung up on which brand to use, the most important thing to focus on is suitability for purpose.
Proper design and knowledge of application go hand in hand with product knowledge all day long!
That means there are enough options for every scenario and bathroom sealant application.
With that in mind, I have created a basic framework so you can make the most informed decisions.
How do I choose the right bathroom sealant for the job?
Translucent and clear commonly used to seal shower screens.
Neutral curing and low modulus where acidic curing could effect the application surface. This is used when sealing to a surface like Travertine natural porous stone.
High modulus has the least flexibility and offers the most suitable bond for sanitary ware.
White is typically used on same colour ceramics and bathroom furniture.
Colour for the ability to match the bead to the same colour as the tiles.
Adhesion is for where support is needed, and the application could be hidden. In fact I highly recommend it on every connection. Where ever there is a need to support or seal.
Paintable acrylic based silicone can be painted on. The need to apply this kind of sealant could be where a tile edge overlaps a decorated surface. There are high quality caulking products that are suitable for a decorators choice.
My Top 4 Bathroom Sealant Recommendations
No Nonsense anti-mould sealant
Before discovering the brand, I tried everything from BAL, Mapei, Dow, Soudal, Everbuild Everflex, Unibond, and CT1. For many years, Dow was my go-to for all general sanitary applications.
As I developed my technique and understanding over the years, I realised a few things. One of these realisations was discovering that a mid-range sealant like No Nonsense was a good option.
I found it to be easy to achieve a quality and long-lasting finish.
It is especially useful where a thicker bead is needed. It is a great choice for sealing all your sanitary ware, e.g., bath, basin, and shower trays.
Plumbers Gold White
It is not uncommon to see standard sealant used where it should be.
However, if you want a 100% guarantee of no issues, especially in areas exposed to high water pressure and temperature.
There is no competitor to this one! This is an adhesive, so it should not be used as a finishing product.
It has a powerful grab capability for the strongest sealant and securing capabilities.
After using hundreds of tubes with an unfailing track record, it is my go-to every time!
Top tip – Plumbers Gold White is paintable, which can be useful in some circumstances if used as a filler.
BAL Micromax anti-mould sealant
This is a premium brand and offers a great solution for a bathroom installer.
BAL exceeds ISO 11600 and BS 5889 Type B requirements, and comes with a 25 year guarantee.
I find the workability very similar to the Non Nonsense and Dow alternatives.
As well as offering an extensive range of colour options.
They even have a new range of sealant that when cured gives off an appearance of a grout finished surface. With an extensive colour range to match your grout of choice.
And can be used for all applications for sanitary wear ceramics and porcelain.
OTTOSEAL S70 premium natural stone sealant
One of the most versatile options out there and very reasonably priced at the top end of premium sealant solutions.
It has all the components a bathroom installer could wish for in that it provides an full range of colour choices. And achieves a matt finish to closely match your natural stone. As well as does not stain your stone surface.
You get a premium silicone that has all the requirements to achieve the highest level of ISO 16938-1.
Choosing The Right Bathroom Sealant
So we now you know that the brand is not the most important thing !
And that understanding the environment, application surface and proper installation techniques are paramount !
As well as that applying a mid range sealant will outperform a premium product applied poorly.
Let me leave with a summary of the critical bits !
- Focus on suitability for purpose and choose the right type of sealant for the specific job e.g. sanitary ware, natural stone, or areas exposed to high water pressure.
- Proper technique is essential so take the time to prepare surfaces, apply the sealant correctly, an ensure to adhere to recommended curing times.
- Know your options with products like No Nonsense Anti-Mould Sealant, Plumbers Gold White adhesive and Bal Micromax Anti-Mould Sealant, OTTOSEAL S70 – you have reliable choices for all your bathroom sealing needs.
In the end, a successful long lasting job relies on balancing product suitability , proper installation and attention to detail. By applying this knowledge you will achieve a reliable seal every time.
