Mastering shower corner
sealant technique
Are you tired of dealing with cracking corners in your shower? It’s a frustratingly common issue, with a simple solution that ensures both durability and aesthetic appeal: silicone sealant. According to industry standards like ANSI (American National Standards Institute) and TCNA (Tile Council of North America), using 100% silicone caulking on inside corners and changes of planes is not just recommended but essential for maintaining the integrity of your shower.
Why silicone is essential
Silicone is favored over grout at critical points where tiles meet other hard surfaces because it allows for movement and expansion. In areas like interior corners or where the wall meets the floor, structural movements can cause traditional grout to crack over time. Silicone, however, remains flexible, accommodating these movements without compromising the waterproofing of your shower.
Learn how to caulk your inside corners
Take a look at this video from @thattilechick where she walks you through the right way to caulk those tricky inside corners!
Benefits of using silicone
Contrary to common misconceptions about silicone, 100% pure silicone does not promote mold growth. Silicone offers numerous advantages over grout when used in the inside corners of showers. Unlike grout, silicone caulk, especially high-quality products like Maxisil with built-in fungicides, resists mold and mildew growth, ensuring a cleaner and healthier shower environment.
Its flexibility allows it to expand and contract with temperature changes and minor structural movements, maintaining a durable, watertight seal that reduces the risk of leaks and water damage. Silicone’s durability against water exposure, chemicals, and UV light minimizes the need for frequent repairs compared to grout, which can deteriorate over time. It provides a smooth, seamless finish in inside corners, enhancing the shower’s appearance while being easier to clean and maintain due to its non-porous nature. Compatible with various shower materials like ceramic, porcelain, glass, and natural stone, waterproofing silicone ensures consistent application across different surfaces, making it a reliable choice for ensuring longevity and functionality in shower spaces.
Matching grout seamlessly
We also have a Cross-Over tool, which allows you to match your silicone seamlessly with popular grout brands. This ensures a consistent color scheme throughout your shower, enhancing its overall aesthetic appeal.
Mastering shower corner sealant techniques isn’t just about fixing cosmetic issues—it’s about ensuring the longevity and functionality of your shower space. By adhering to ANSI standards and choosing a premium silicone sealant like Maxisil Wet Area, you can say goodbye to cracked grout and hello to a beautifully sealed shower that stands the test of time.
Whether you’re tackling a DIY project or seeking professional assistance, understanding the importance of proper silicone application in shower maintenance is key to enjoying a leak-free and visually pleasing shower.
Maxisil Color Cross-Over
Matching to all the main grout brands, including Mapei, Custom Building Products, Laticrete, Ardex, Bostik, North American Adhesives, TEC and new Maxisil grout.