Bath & Kitchen Sealant

About Bath & Kitchen Sealant

Bath and kitchen sealants are essential waterproofing products for creating durable, flexible seals around wet area installations. These specialised silicone-based sealants prevent water ingress around baths, showers, sinks, and worktops, protecting against damp, mould, and structural damage. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks professional-grade sealants from trusted brands including Everbuild, Polycell, and Unibond, each formulated to withstand constant moisture exposure, temperature fluctuations, and cleaning chemicals whilst maintaining flexibility and adhesion over many years.

Modern bath and kitchen sealants offer enhanced features such as anti-mould protection, quick-drying formulas, and low-modulus flexibility that accommodates movement without cracking or peeling. Available in standard cartridges for use with sealant guns or convenient squeeze tubes and strips for smaller jobs, these products deliver professional results whether you're installing a new bathroom suite, repairing failing joints, or completing kitchen worktop installations.

Applications

Bath and kitchen sealants are used across numerous trades and applications:

• Plumbers and heating engineers sealing bathrooms, showers, and kitchen sinks
• Bathroom fitters completing wet room installations and renovations
• Kitchen fitters sealing worktops, splashbacks, and sink units
• Tilers finishing joints between tiles and sanitaryware
• Property maintenance contractors conducting repairs and refurbishments
• Window fitters sealing window boards and internal reveals
• Social housing maintenance teams carrying out routine repairs
• DIY enthusiasts tackling bathroom upgrades and re-sealing projects
• Facilities management professionals maintaining commercial washrooms

Choosing The Right Bath & Kitchen Sealant

Selecting the appropriate sealant depends on several key factors. First, consider substrate compatibility – some sealants may react with natural stone, certain metals, or specific plastics. For most ceramic, acrylic, and enamel surfaces, a standard sanitary silicone performs excellently.

Anti-mould properties are crucial in high-humidity environments. Products containing fungicidal additives actively prevent black mould growth, reducing maintenance in bathrooms with limited ventilation. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks specialist products like Everbuild Forever White, designed to resist yellowing and maintain their bright appearance.

Colour selection matters both aesthetically and practically. White remains most popular, though clear sealant suits glass, coloured tiles, or natural stone where an invisible finish is desired. Consider the application method too – standard cartridges offer control for larger projects, whilst easy-squeeze tubes and innovative strip products like Polycell Sealant Strip suit smaller repairs or occasional use.

Check curing time and tooling window requirements. Professional-grade sealants typically provide 10-15 minutes tooling time, sufficient for achieving a smooth, professional finish before the surface skins over.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does bath and kitchen sealant take to cure?

Most sanitary silicone sealants skin over within 10-30 minutes, but full cure typically takes 24-48 hours depending on temperature, humidity, and bead depth. Avoid water exposure until fully cured to ensure maximum performance and adhesion.

Can I apply new sealant over old sealant?

No – new sealant won't adhere properly to old silicone, leading to premature failure. Always completely remove existing sealant using a utility knife or dedicated remover, then thoroughly clean and degrease surfaces before applying fresh sealant.

How do I achieve a professional finish?

Apply an even bead slightly overfilling the joint, then use a wet finger, dedicated smoothing tool, or soapy water spray to tool the joint within the working time. Many professionals apply masking tape to either side before sealing, removing it immediately after tooling for perfectly straight edges.