How to Re-Silicone Your Shower Area: A Simple 3-Step Guide

17 June

Written By Kim .

Maintaining your bathroom is essential to keep it looking clean and functioning properly. If your silicone is mouldy or falling apart, it’s time for a refresh. Re-siliconing your shower is a straightforward process that you can do yourself. Follow this easy 3-step guide to get the job done efficiently.

*We did an instagram video on this! You can watch full video* *here*

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

Before you start, make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials. Here’s what you’ll need:

Methylated spirits: For cleaning and preparing the area.
Plastic gloves: To protect your hands.
A clean cloth: For cleaning and drying surfaces.
A box cutter with a sharp blade: To remove old silicone.
A paddle pop stick: For smoothing the silicone.
A silicone gun: To apply the new silicone.
Silicone: Choose a high-quality, mold-resistant silicone suitable for bathrooms.
A spray bottle with soapy water: For smoothing the silicone.
Paper towels: For wiping excess silicone and cleaning up.

Step 2: Cleaning

Remove Old Silicone:
- Use the box cutter to carefully cut out and remove the old silicone. Make sure to cut along the edges of the silicone bead to lift it out cleanly.
- Take your time to ensure all traces of the old silicone are removed, as any remaining bits can prevent the new silicone from adhering properly.
Clean the Area:
- Dampen the clean cloth with methylated spirits.
- Thoroughly clean the area where you removed the silicone, making sure to remove any soap scum, dirt, or residue. This step is crucial for the new silicone to bond properly.
- Dry the area completely with paper towels to ensure no moisture is left.

Step 3: Applying

Prepare the Silicone Gun:
- Insert the silicone tube into the silicone gun.
- Cut the nozzle at a 45° angle. The size of the cut will determine the thickness of the silicone bead, so adjust according to your needs.
Apply the Silicone:
- Apply the silicone in a continuous, unbroken bead along the joint or seam. Move the gun steadily to ensure an even application.
- Work in sections if necessary, but try to avoid stopping and starting frequently to maintain a smooth bead.
Smooth the Silicone:
- Immediately spray the silicone bead with soapy water. This will prevent the silicone from sticking to your tools or fingers.
- Use the rounded tip of the paddle pop stick to smooth the silicone bead. Run the stick along the bead to remove any excess silicone.
- For any remaining bumps or uneven areas, take off your gloves, wet your finger with soapy water, and gently smooth the silicone. Your finger can be the best tool for this job due to its flexibility and precision.

Pro Tips

Avoid Water Under the Silicone: Make sure no soapy water gets under the silicone bead that you intend to keep, as silicone will not stick to soapy water.
Use Your Finger for Finishing Touches: After smoothing with the paddle pop stick, your soapy finger can help achieve a perfect finish. It sounds odd, but your finger's natural flexibility makes it ideal for this task.

By following these steps, you can ensure your shower is properly sealed, preventing water damage and maintaining a fresh, clean appearance. Regular maintenance like re-siliconing can extend the life of your bathroom fixtures and keep your space looking its best.

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