If your bathroom’s looking worse for wear, your sealant might be the culprit. It doesn’t last forever, and when it goes, it can cause more trouble than you’d think.
1-Mould is a red flag
If you spot mould that just won’t budge, even after a good scrub, that’s a red flag. Sealant can absorb moisture, making it the perfect breeding ground.
2-Cracks or gaps are a sign
Sealant should form a smooth, watertight line. If it’s splitting, water can sneak behind it. Some cleaning enthusiasts say white vinegar can offer reprieve from mould.
3-Is it peeling away?
Peeling or lifting edges mean it’s no longer stuck down. Once it starts coming away, it’s basically useless. A bathroom sealant can be a lifeline. Unlike grout or filler, bathroom sealant can expand and move as things shift with temperature changes or everyday use.
4-Another giveaway is discolouration
If it’s turned yellow, brown, or patchy, it’s past its best and probably harbouring bacteria. Replacing sealant isn’t the most glamorous job, but it’s worth doing before small issues turn into costly repairs. If you’ve ticked off more than one of these signs, it’s probably time to grab a tube of fresh sealant and sort it out.
5-Is there a musty smell?
If you notice a musty smell that won’t go away, trapped moisture behind failing sealant could be the cause.
6-Is there any water damage?
Any signs of water damage nearby, like bubbling paint or damp patches, suggest water is getting where it shouldn’t. It’s time to act.