Using Bathroom Sealants to Prevent Moulds and Mildew

Does your bathroom have mould and mildew? Do you want to be spared the headache of dealing with these nasty problems?

Our bathroom’s temperature, moisture and damp conditions are the perfect breeding ground for moulds and mildew. They are unsightly problems that can be a health hazard, potentially triggering allergies and respiratory problems. But more often than not, they are just a revolting reminder to maintain cleanliness. If left alone, they can lead to rot and further damage. It is thus important to prevent them from getting a chance to take hold. Any spot where water can spill down unsealed cracks will pose a risk unless covered by a sealant which will block gaps and prevent water from seeping through. The most vulnerable areas are the showers, baths, sinks and toilets. 

When the water in the bathroom dries out, it evaporates into the air. This increases the humidity and since bathrooms are not usually well-ventilated, the humidity tends to be trapped inside causing the wet surface to dry out slower. Dirt from body oils and soap which is washed off serves as a food source for mold to feed on and there is an abundance of water source for the  from the running water and steam.

 

Bathroom sealants are an essential tool to avert these smelly and unattractive patches. They are silicone based and come in different colours to match bathroom colour schemes. Most usually contain fungicidal chemicals to add extra protection. Bathroom sealants are fairly easy to use but you can use either flexible caulking or silicone sealant. 

Remove any old sealant from the work area by using the blade of a craft knife and clean any remaining residue with fine sandpaper or rub it with some alcohol. There are also chemicals available to remove silicone. If there is mildew, clean it thoroughly first. Make sure that your bathroom surface is dry before applying the sealant as it repels water, as such will not stick to wet surfaces. Contaminants like oil and dirt will also prevent it from sticking effectively. Do not use too much sealant to avoid bumps and uneven surfaces.  Bathroom sealants stick to non-porous surfaces which are smooth, unpainted solid surfaces that limit penetration of liquid like ceramic tiles and porcelain.

Always remember to replace bathroom sealants every few years in order to ensure that the gap stays waterproof. Sealants are easy to use and can block water from seeping down crevices that leave damp area where mould and mildew starts to form. Be sure to get your sealants from trusted sources to ensure that moulds and mildew are a thing of the past.