Signs Your Bathroom Needs Re-Sealing
Your bathroom sealant works tirelessly behind the scenes, forming a crucial barrier against moisture. When it fails, however, the consequences extend far beyond mere appearance. Peeling, mouldy, or cracked sealant can lead to extensive water damage, structural problems, and health concerns from dampness.
How can you identify a failing seal before significant damage occurs? Look for these five critical signs that indicate your bathroom needs professional attention.
Signs Your Bathroom Needs Re-Sealing
1. The Problem: Persistent Black Mould or Mildew
What you see: Speckled black or dark green patches along the edges of your shower, bath, or sink that reappear shortly after cleaning.
Why it’s serious: This mould represents a health hazard, known to aggravate allergies and respiratory issues. Furthermore, its presence indicates trapped moisture behind the seal, which can lead to rot in underlying timber and damage to plasterboard.
The Solution:
Initially, you might clean with a dedicated mould removal product, though this offers only a temporary fix. For a permanent solution, completely remove the old sealant, disinfect the area with a fungicidal wash, and apply a premium, mould resistant silicone such as Simseal SS100 Neutral Sanitary Sealant for its certified anti-fungal protection. Always ensure the room is well ventilated during the process.
2. The Problem: Cracking or Shrinking Sealant
What you see: Visible gaps between the sealant and the tile or bath, or fine cracks running along the bead.
Why it’s serious: These gaps allow water to seep into wall cavities and sub-floors. Consequently, this causes slow, hidden damage that becomes incredibly costly to repair.
The Solution:
Begin by carefully cutting away all deteriorated sealant with a sharp utility knife. Then, clean and dry the area thoroughly before applying a high quality, flexible silicone sealant. If cracks reappear quickly, the product may be unsuitable or there could be underlying movement. For a guaranteed finish, a professional will use a high movement product like Simseal SS100, which is designed to flex with your home.
3. The Problem: Permanent Discolouration or Staining
What you see: Sealant that has yellowed, turned grey, or looks permanently dirty and cannot be cleaned.
Why it’s serious: Discolouration signifies the sealant is ageing and breaking down. Therefore, its protective properties become compromised, even if it hasn’t started peeling yet.
The Solution:
Remove the old sealant and replace it entirely. For a clean, lasting look, use a bright white or transparent sanitary silicone. To prevent future issues, run the extractor fan during and after showers. Additionally, avoid harsh abrasive cleaners that can degrade the sealant’s surface over time.
4. The Problem: Soft or Spongy Surfaces
What you feel: Wall tiles, skirting boards, or areas adjacent to the bath that feel soft, damp, or flexible when pressed.
Why it’s serious: This indicates water has breached the sealant barrier and is actively damaging the substrates. As a result, this situation requires urgent attention to prevent rot.
The Solution:
Immediately cease using the shower or bath to prevent further damage. This is not a DIY job; a specialist needs to assess the damage, which may involve removing tiles or sections of wall to dry out and repair the structure before a new seal can be applied.
5. The Problem: Water Pooling Where It Shouldn’t
What you see: Water collecting on the floor outside your shower screen or trickling behind the bath panel.
Why it’s serious: This shows the sealant has completely failed, allowing water to escape. Subsequently, this creates slip hazards and risks damage to flooring, ceilings below, and bathroom furniture.
The Solution:
Reseal the entire perimeter of the shower, bath, or sink urgently. Meanwhile, inspect the grout and tile condition and repair any damage simultaneously. Finally, adopt a simple squeegee routine after use to minimise water exposure and extend the new sealant’s life.
When to Call a Professional for Re-Sealing
While some minor re-sealing is a common DIY task, you should call a professional if:
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There is any evidence of extensive water damage (soft walls, a persistent musty smell).
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You have attempted re-sealing but the problems keep returning.
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You want a guaranteed, long lasting finish with commercial grade products.
Need Help with Your Bathroom Sealant?
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Call: 13000 CAULK (13000 22855)
Email: info@caulkit.com.au
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