Choosing a Sealant for Tiling​ – The Definitive Guide

When it comes to tiling, choosing the best sealer for your needs is an important part of any project that affects how it looks and lasts over time. This isn’t grout, and it has its own unique, important job to do.

What is Sealant for Tiling​?

A tiling sealant is a malleable and waterproof material used to fill joints where movement or water ingress is anticipated. It never gets brittle as time passes, even after it dries out. Unlike rigid grout, it’s firm yet elastic and can tolerate movement and changing conditions without cracking or falling out. It provides stain-proof protection, and no more mildew or staining. The chief purpose of it is waterproofing and sealing protected areas.

Where Do You Need a Sealant for Tiling​?

Tile sealer is a must in certain areas:

Perimeter Joints:

The space between the tile floor and the wall (e.g., baseboards or bathtub).

Change of Plane:

Internal corners where one wall meets another tiled wall, or a wall meets the floor.

Fixture Edges:

Sinks, bathtubs, shower drains, and faucets.

Expansion Joints:

In large floor spaces for natural expansion and contraction of the building.

Types of Tiling Sealants!

Selecting the right category is crucial:

100% Silicone Sealant:

This is the standard and recommended type of sealant for wet area tiling such as showers, bathtubs, and sinks. It provides an unmatched level of flexibility and waterproofing. It comes in a range of colors to coordinate with grout or fixtures.

Acrylic or Siliconized Acrylic Sealant:

Less waterproof than pure silicone, but sometimes paintable. It is most suitable for low moisture areas such as tiled kitchen backsplashes or perimeter seams of dry areas.

How to Seal Tile Properly for Tiling

Correct application results in a professional, long-lasting finish:

Preparation:

The surface must be completely clean, dry, and free from old caulk, stains, dust, or debris.

Application:

Trim the nozzle at an angle to the desired bead size. Apply a neat, continuous bead into the joint, using a caulking gun.

Tooling:

Trowel smooth at application with a wet finger or tooling tool. This forces the sealant into the joint and forms a concave, professional finish.

Curing:

Before exposing it to water, be sure to allow the sealant to fully cure according to manufacturer guidelines (normally 24 hours).

Conclusion

Shielding Your Tile From Elements

You should never work with grout in a space that needs a sealant for tiling. Applying high-quality, flexible tile sealant is essential to stop water damage from getting into your walls, floors, and other substrates, as well as lengthening the lifespan of your tiling. The ultimate choice is 100% silicone for added peace of mind in any area where moisture and movement are present.