Renewing a silicone joint
In short: Silicone joints in bathroom and kitchen seal against water. If they are cracked or black, they should be replaced completely, because painting over does not help.
In more detail: Sanitary silicone is elastic and often contains mould protection; nevertheless it ages after years.
In detail
- Remove the old joint: Cut out with a joint knife or utility knife and peel off residues.
- Clean: Degrease the area with alcohol or silicone remover, let it dry well.
- Mask: Apply masking tape on both sides so the joint turns out clean.
- Prepare the cartridge: Cut the nozzle at an angle, opening smaller than the joint width.
- Apply: Apply evenly in one pass.
- Smooth: Smooth with a joint smoother or finger and soapy water, remove tape immediately.
- Dry: Keep from getting wet for several hours up to 24 hours.
- Ventilate: Good ventilation prevents new mould (richtig-lueften-und-schimmel-vermeiden).