How to Maintain Silicone Sealant: A Complete Guide
In this guide, we’ll cover the best ways on how to maintain silicone sealant, when to call in a professional mastic man for a flawless finish, and how to avoid common issues.
Silicone sealant is a key feature in many British homes, especially in high-moisture areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and around windows. Its flexibility, waterproof properties, and long-lasting durability make it ideal for keeping spaces protected from water ingress and drafts. However, to ensure that silicone continues to perform well over time, it needs regular maintenance.
Why Silicone Sealant Maintenance Is Important
In the UK, our damp climate and frequent changes in temperature can quickly affect sealant. Silicone, when left unattended, can become mouldy, discoloured, or begin to peel and crack, especially in bathrooms and kitchens. Poorly maintained silicone can lead to leaks, drafts, and water damage, which in turn can compromise the overall integrity of your home. Regular maintenance helps:
- Extend the lifespan of the sealant
- Keep it looking clean and fresh
- Prevent the growth of mould and mildew
- Ensure a strong, watertight seal
Whether your silicone sealant is new or has been in place for years, a little bit of care can go a long way in keeping it effective.
Regular Cleaning
One of the easiest ways to maintain your silicone sealant is through regular cleaning. Keeping the area clean helps to prevent dirt and mould from taking hold, which can deteriorate the silicone over time.
How to Clean Silicone Sealant:
- Use mild soap and water: Start by wiping down the silicone with a mixture of warm soapy water. This will remove any surface dirt or grease. Harsh chemicals such as bleach can weaken the sealant, so it’s best to avoid them.
- Use a soft sponge: When cleaning, use a soft cloth or sponge to avoid damaging the silicone surface. Abrasive pads or scrubbing brushes could tear the sealant.
- Rinse thoroughly: After cleaning, rinse the area with clean water to remove any soap residue, which could attract dirt later on.
It’s recommended to clean silicone sealant every couple of weeks, especially in high-use areas like around sinks, baths, or shower cubicles.
Preventing and Removing Mould
In humid environments, like bathrooms, mould can be a persistent problem. When mould builds up on silicone, it can not only look unsightly but also degrade the sealant’s effectiveness. Keeping the area dry and well-ventilated can help prevent this, but if mould does appear, it’s important to act quickly.
How to Remove Mould from Silicone Sealant:
- Use white vinegar: A natural and non-abrasive cleaner, white vinegar is great for removing mould. Simply apply vinegar to the affected area, leave it for 20-30 minutes, and gently scrub with a soft brush.
- Try a silicone-friendly mould remover: If vinegar isn’t enough, there are silicone-safe mould removers available in the UK that can help. Always check the product is suitable for use on silicone and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
To prevent mould from coming back, ensure the area is well-ventilated, use an extractor fan, and wipe down wet areas regularly.
Inspecting for Damage
Regularly inspecting your silicone sealant for signs of damage is vital to maintain its integrity. Over time, silicone can become brittle, crack, or pull away from the surface it’s protecting, especially in areas that see a lot of movement, such as windows or doors.
How to Inspect Silicone Sealant:
- Look for visible damage: Check for any cracks, peeling, or gaps. Even small splits can allow moisture to seep in, which can cause damage to the surfaces underneath.
- Check flexibility: Silicone sealant should remain slightly flexible. If it feels rigid or begins to crumble, it’s time for replacement.
If you spot any of these issues, it’s important to repair or replace the sealant before any serious problems develop.
Reapplying Silicone Sealant
If your silicone sealant is damaged, mouldy, or beyond cleaning, it’s time to reapply. While it’s possible to tackle this job yourself, achieving a professional finish can be tricky. For best results, it’s often worth hiring a professional mastic man to ensure that the job is done right.
How to Remove Old Silicone Sealant:
- Cut away the old sealant: Use a silicone removal tool or a sharp stanley knife to carefully scrape away the old sealant. Take care not to damage the surrounding surfaces.
- Clean the area: Once the old silicone has been removed, clean the area with a silicone remover or rubbing alcohol to get rid of any residue.
- Allow the surface to dry: Ensure the area is completely dry before applying new silicone, as any moisture can prevent the new sealant from bonding properly.
How to Apply New Silicone Sealant:
- Use a sealant gun: For controlled application, use a silicone sealant gun. Cut the nozzle at a 45-degree angle, ensuring the bead is the right size for the gap you’re sealing.
- Apply the silicone smoothly: Slowly apply a continuous bead of silicone along the joint. Don’t worry if the bead looks a little uneven at first.
- Smooth the sealant: Using a smoothing tool or your finger (dipped in soapy water), smooth the bead for a clean, professional finish.
- Allow to cure: Silicone usually takes 24 to 48 hours to fully cure, so avoid touching or exposing it to water during this time.
If you’re not confident in reapplying silicone yourself, hiring a professional mastic man is a smart investment. A mastic man has the skills and tools to apply silicone quickly and accurately, ensuring a smooth, durable, and watertight finish.
Tips to Prolong the Life of Silicone Sealant
Once your silicone sealant is freshly applied or cleaned, there are a few ways to help it last longer and avoid frequent repairs:
- Keep areas dry: In high-moisture environments, such as bathrooms, wipe down the silicone after each use to prevent water build-up.
- Ensure proper ventilation: Make sure rooms where silicone is used are well-ventilated. Open windows, use an extractor fan, or install a dehumidifier to keep humidity levels low.
- Avoid harsh chemicals: Regular household cleaners can break down silicone over time. Stick to mild, non-abrasive cleaning solutions.
Why Hire a Professional Mastic Man?
While maintaining silicone yourself is manageable, for more extensive repairs or reapplication, hiring a professional mastic man ensures the job is done to the highest standard. A mastic man has specialised training in applying sealant smoothly and precisely, achieving a finish that not only looks professional but is also built to last. Whether you’re dealing with bathroom sealant, kitchen surfaces, or external joints around windows, a mastic man guarantees flawless results, saving you time and hassle in the long run.
Final Thoughts
Proper maintenance of silicone sealant is key to keeping your home protected from moisture and drafts. Regular cleaning, inspecting for damage, and reapplying when necessary can prolong its life and ensure it continues to do its job effectively. When it comes to reapplication or difficult areas, hiring a professional mastic man is a wise choice to ensure a professional finish. With the right care, silicone sealant can keep your home watertight, airtight, and looking its best for years to come.
