As silicone is used in wet areas, bathrooms, showers, and kitchens, it is hard to avoid dampening areas that develop mould, but we can give you a few tips on prolonging the mould’s coming sooner.
Before you silicone an area
Buy a sealant with anti-fungi in the product; good quality silicone will have this in the ingredients. Another reason for choosing good quality silicone is that it is less likely to crack or lose its grip, reducing the watertight seal. Once the sealant cracks and loses grip, water can get trapped behind the sealant, and mould will begin to grow.
Preparing the area before applying the silicone is one of the most critical steps. It needs to be clean, dry, and free of bacteria. All grime, grease, and other residues on the surface need to be removed; otherwise, you will not be able to form a solid bond.
It’s essential to read and follow the product’s drying or curing time instructions. Most silicone sealants require 24 hours to cure. This waiting period is crucial, as it allows the adhesive to dry and cure fully, effectively preventing mould growth. Patience is key here.
Keeping wet areas dry:
Keeping a regular cleaning routine is a must. Soap scrum builds up in showers, creating a perfect environment for mould growth. Avoid using harsh chemicals like bleach. These chemicals can damage and comprise the silicone, causing discolouration and weakening the sealant bead. Natural cleaning products include baking soda and vinegar. Vinegar is a mild acetic acid and safe to use on silicone. Soapy water can also be used.
Cleaning the bathroom regularly with a diluted vinegar spray can help prevent emerging mould. To do so, dilute two parts vinegar into one part water.
What happens once mould appears?
Unfortunately, no amount of ex-mould spray or scrubbing will remove the mould or kill the spores. The only course of action is to remove the silicone. Clean the area of mould and then leave it to dry for 24 hours before you reapply the new silicone. Silicone will need to be replaced in your wet areas over time, which cannot be avoided.