Plumbing sealant: A waterproof product for foolproof DIY

Plumbing sealant is an invaluable product if you want to keep your bathroom in working order. With a quality waterproof plumbing sealant you can prevent water damage and keep bathroom fixtures in tip-top condition for the long term. Read on to find out how!

Plumbing silicone sealant: Flexible, durable and waterproof

It’s easy to understand why silicone sealants are so popular – whether you’re a professional plumber or a homeowner looking to carry out some quick repairs with long-lasting results, silicone sealant is the answer. This powerful liquid adhesive is useful not just for repairs, but also for preventing future problems. Strengthen the seals of your bathroom fixtures with a sturdy plumbing sealant to save yourself time and money in the future.

Silicone sealants are strong, flexible, waterproof and temperature resistant. With the right product (and some know-how) your plumbing sealant should last for years.

Most plumbing silicone sealants come in a tube or cartridge. They’re easy to use and less messy than putty, so they’re a convenient alternative for sealing bonds. There are really no downsides to plumbing sealant, so it’s just a question of choosing the right product and then getting to work!

How to apply plumbing sealant

For the best results, just follow these simple steps.

1. Clean the surface. It should be dry and clean from any dust or dirt.
2. Prepare the sealant cartridge. Use a knife or pair of scissors to cut off the tip of the cartridge above the screw thread. Remove nozzle cap and trim nozzle diagonally to fit the joint width. Screw the nozzle onto the cartridge. Insert the cartridge into the sealant gun.
3. Apply the plumbing sealant. Hold the gun at a 45-degree angle, squeezing the trigger gently to release the sealant. You should aim for a steady flow, slowly moving the nozzle along the seam.
   
4. Wait for the sealant to dry. Like other silicone sealants, plumbing sealants require time to cure and achieve their maximum strength. Cure time varies depending on the product, and might take up to several days. If in doubt, check the manufacturer’s instructions.

Choosing the best plumbing sealant

Before you purchase a silicone sealant, think about what materials you’re working with and what qualities you need. Some sealants are designed for particular surfaces, and have special properties such as a quick dry time or resistance to extreme temperatures.

If you’re working in the bathroom or any other area that might be exposed to water, you’ll need a waterproof plumbing sealant which is also mould-resistant. You might also want to keep an eye out for acid-free sealants; some adhesives contain acidic components that can result in oxidation on some surfaces, such as mirrors or tiles.

UniBond offers a range of sanitary sealants that are specially designed for use in the bathroom or kitchen, making them ideal plumbing sealants. If you’re looking for a fast-acting sealant that cures quickly, UniBond Speed Seal Sealant is ideal. If your main concern is durability and mould, on the other hand, try UniBond Triple Protection Anti-Mould Sealant that, with its triple protection system, repels, kills and prevents mould growth, ensuring showers, baths and sinks remain in pristine conditions.

Did you know that you can also maintain your sealant, instead of removing and replacing it? UniBond RE-NEW is specially designed for keeping your sealants in good condition, and it’s quick and easy to apply. So save yourself the hassle of applying a fresh layer of sealant, and make your old sealant look as good as new instead.