How to seal kitchen sinks: Tips for sealing success

Knowing how to seal kitchen sinks (or bathroom sinks) is a valuable DIY skill, and it’s easier than you think. Why bother with the cost of hiring professional help when you can do it yourself? Our guide to sealing kitchen sinks tells you what you need to know.

Why sealing kitchen sinks is necessary

Creating a seal around the kitchen sink is a simple step often overlooked by DIYers. Sealing around kitchen sinks or sealing a sink drain with silicone will keep your sink in good condition and prevent future problems. Using a high quality, waterproof sealant prevents water and debris from entering the gaps. If you want to avoid mould and water damage, sealing kitchen sinks (or bathroom sinks) is a must.

How to seal a kitchen sink: Step by step

Just follow these steps to put a seal around a kitchen sink.

1. Remove old sealant. Scrape it off with a putty knife or cutting tool. Make the job even easier with UniBond Silicone Sealant Remover.
2. Clean the area. Avoid exposing the surface to water. Spray a cloth or paper towel with household cleaner and clean the area. Wipe dry. Then clean again with bleach, before rinsing and leaving to dry.
3. Prepare the silicone sealant. Insert the cartridge in the sealant gun and cut the nozzle to the desired width, close to the tip. Test the flow on a piece of scrap material.
4. Apply the sealant. When you’re happy with the flow and you’re sure that the surface is completely dry, apply the sealant around the sink. Even pressure is important; maintain a steady flow to create a smooth layer of sealant that prevents moisture and mildew.
5. Smooth the sealant. For the best results, use a tool like this UniBond Smoother & Cutter Tool.
6. Remove excess sealant. Use white spirit or silicone sealant remover.
7. Wait for the sealant to dry. Avoid exposing the new sealant to water until it’s completely dry. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for required time.

The best products for sealing around sink

Naturally, any sealant you use for sealing bathroom sinks or kitchen sinks must be waterproof and mould resistant. UniBond sanitary sealants are specially designed for use in the kitchen and bathroom; they create strong, flexible seals and offer long-term protection from mould.

If you need to get a job done quickly and want to be able to use the sink soon after sealing, use UniBond Speed Sealant. You can use the sink again just one hour after application.

For seals that last a lifetime, try UniBond Triple Protection Anti-Mould Sealant. It was voted “best in class” for anti-mould protection in independent tests, and comes with a staggering 35 year guarantee. You may never have to reseal the kitchen sink again!
Alternatively, if the seal around the kitchen sink is looking a bit worse for wear but you don’t want to apply a new layer of sealant yet, use UniBond RE-NEW. It’s quick and easy to apply, and will keep sealant looking fresh. No need to get out the sealant gun!