Shelf between the bathtub and the wall made of plastic. The gap between the bathtub and the wall: the simplest and most effective ways to close the gap

Gaps between the walls and the bathroom are usually formed due to mismatch installation dimensions the last one with dimensions bathroom. In some cases, this discrepancy may be caused by uneven walls (the exact geometric dimensions of the room are not maintained, for example, when the angles differ from 90°).

Before you seal the gap between the bathtub and the wall, you will need to familiarize yourself with the known methods of sealing the gaps formed during the installation of the bathtub. In this case, the type of material from which this product is made must be taken into account. You are unlikely to be able to seal even a small gap between the body of an acrylic bathtub and the wall, for example, with silicone, since acrylic easily bends under load, which eventually leads to destruction of the seal.

Note! The first condition for high-quality sealing of voids between the bathtub and the walls is its reliable fastening at the installation site, which allows the vibrations of the body to be reduced to a minimum.

The method of sealing cracks and the material used are ultimately selected based on the size of the gap formed during installation, so it is this parameter that we will take as a basis when studying the issue that interests us.

Gap up to 10 mm

To close a gap of this size you will need to prepare outer corner white, usually used under tiles and white silicone seal. Operations for sealing cracks are carried out in this case in the following order:

1. We cut off a corner blank, measured exactly to the length of your bathtub, and trim its ends at an angle of 45°.
2. We fill the free gap between the bathtub and the wall with silicone.
3. We close the seal on top with a plastic corner.

There should be so much silicone in the voids that when pressed with a corner, it appears not only against the wall, but also on the side of the bathtub. Excess silicone is then removed with a damp cloth. When using an acrylic bathtub, sealing the cracks should be done after filling it with water and maintained for 12 hours.

Gap size from 10mm to 30mm

Since the maximum width of a special corner for tiles rarely exceeds 12 mm, it is not suitable for sealing gaps larger than 10 mm. IN in this case choose from two options:

Installation plastic skirting board is carried out similarly to the procedures described above; the only difference is that the gap in this case is not sealed with silicone. But this is not necessary, since success this method sealing cracks is determined only by the reliability of gluing the baseboard to the walls and to the bathtub body. All that is required of you is to thoroughly dry and degrease the articulated surfaces.

All of the above is also true for the case of closing the cracks with a self-adhesive border. When installing such material, it is necessary to follow a strict order, according to which one of its sides is first glued (to the wall, for example), and only then the other.

Big gap

To seal gaps larger than 30 mm, you will have to make a frame and sheathe it moisture-resistant plasterboard. Stacked on top ceramic tile match the color of the tiles on the walls. This is discussed in more detail in the second video.

Video

A method for designing one of the options for sealing the joint between the bathtub and the wall is presented below:

This shows how to close a large gap when there is a void between the tub and the wall:

Photo

When the main renovation in the bathroom is completed: the tiles are glued, the bathtub is in place, then the question arises of how to seal the unsightly gap between the wall and the bathtub. Sealing is very important because it extends the life of plumbing products and prevents moisture from penetrating under the bathtub, causing mold and destroying the tiles.

Peculiarities

The gap between the wall and the bathtub occurs due to a mismatch between the dimensions of the bathtub and the room, uneven walls or due to missing corners. The size of the gap depends on the specific situation.

At the moment, quite a lot of solutions to this problem have already been invented., we'll talk about them. How to close large gaps (more than 5 cm), small gaps, the best ways to resolve these situations depending on the input conditions - we will consider all this later in the article.

Modern methods of sealing joints

There are particularly popular methods for sealing the gap between the bathtub and the wall:

• using cement mortar;
• using polyurethane foam;
• seal with silicone sealant;
• plastic or tile baseboard;
• sticker of border tape or corner.

The decision to use each method must be made depending on a combination of many factors, such as:

• gap size;
• bathtub shape;
• wall material.

By choosing the right material, the sealing job will be simple, and the result will be long-lasting.

Sealing with polyurethane foam

The use of fine-pored foam to seal the gap between the bathtub and the wall is progressive and convenient method, which can be used even with large gap sizes, since this foam tends to expand greatly in volume.

When choosing foam, you should pay attention to its moisture resistance, because this is the main criterion when choosing building materials for work in damp rooms. A one-component polyurethane composition is optimal.

Consistently sealed polyurethane foam looks like that:

• cleaning surfaces from dirt and degreasing using specialized products;
• thorough drying of surfaces;
• preparing a construction gun (if this is implied by the foam you choose);
• careful distribution of foam, filling all the cracks (the container must be shaken before use);
• quick cleaning of excess foam (after drying, this will be extremely problematic);
• waiting for expansion and drying (on average up to 8 hours);
• Next, cut off the foam evenly and mask the joint using comfortable material– ceramic tiles or plastic corner.

Important: when working with polyurethane foam, it is better to protect your hands from getting it on your skin.

Using curb tape

Border tape is a white polyethylene tape produced in rolls. On one side of the tape - smooth surface, coated with antifungal agents and impervious to moisture, and on the other side the tape is represented by an adhesive layer.

As a rule, curb tape is not used as an independent means of sealing joints, and as an additional decorative coating after filling the gap with polyurethane foam or cement-sand mortar.

When choosing a tape, you should know the width of the gap that you want to close and choose at least 2 times wider (since one edge of the tape rests on the wall, and the second on the gap and the edge of the bathtub).

The tape is attached as follows:

• the working surface is cleaned and thoroughly dried;
• To further strengthen the tape, it is often recommended to coat the seam with adhesives (for example, liquid nails) or use additional silicone sealant;
• the border tape is glued evenly: so that one half lies on the wall, and the other half on the bathtub;
• for reliability, all joints are coated with sealant;
• It is also necessary to prevent moisture from entering the side during the day for drying.

Curb tape is a short-lived method of sealing joints, it’s worth remembering. It is easy to care for, but even with careful use It is difficult to extend its service life: it peels off quite quickly and loses its attractive appearance.

Using cement mortar

Applying cement-sand mortar, you need to understand that this method is very economical, but is not suitable for gaps more than 4 cm wide, since it simply will not hold up with a larger gap.

If the gap is larger, you can use special mounting supports, for example, wooden slats, which can serve as a support for the solution.

Sealing with cement mortar is carried out as follows:

• surface preparation: the wall needs to be treated with a primer - this is done to increase the adhesion of the mortar to the wall material;
• preparing the solution itself - this is done in accordance with the instructions on the package;
• impregnating the rag with the solution and placing it in the space between the bathtub and the wall;
• after the rag has dried, apply the solution, which should be carefully leveled with a spatula;
• waiting for hardening;
• painting or covering a crack covered with cement mortar with plastic or tiled decor.

The main disadvantage of this sealing method is the inelasticity of the frozen solution. Accordingly, at the slightest fluctuations to which the bath may be subject, the solution may crack and cease to perform its function.

Sealing cracks with silicone sealant

Using silicone sealants, you can ensure high-quality sealing of the gap between the bathtub and the wall, but only with very small gap widths (up to 5 mm).

Bathroom sanitary sealants are suitable for the job: they have sufficient elasticity, antibacterial and fungicidal (antifungal) additives, and are resistant to temperature and humidity changes.

Another undeniable advantage of silicone sealants is the increased degree of adhesion: any glossy coating does not require special preparation for high-quality fixation.

Silicones in tubes are usually white or transparent.

The sequence of actions when using silicone sealant for a joint is as follows:

• degreasing and drying the surface;
• for ease of distribution of silicone sealant, it is better to use a construction (plunger) gun;
• the nose of the balloon tube is cut off depending on the thickness of the seam;
• silicone is applied evenly along the entire length of the gap;
• Wetting your finger in soapy water, you need to spread the sealant in an even layer;
• It is recommended to apply several layers of silicone: the first layers should be pushed deeper into the seam for high-quality sealing;
• waiting for it to dry.

Thus, it can be seen that eliminating unwanted gaps in the bathroom using silicone sealants is not difficult. You can do this work yourself without involving specialists.

Other possible options

We have discussed all the main methods of sealing seams above, now let’s talk about less popular or specific means for eliminating cracks.

• Skirting boards and borders. Skirting boards and borders made of polymer materials are quite common due to their low cost and aesthetic appeal. What is worth knowing about this method is that ready-made adhesive bases, often applied by the manufacturer to the baseboard, are not suitable for quality work. Therefore, when installing plastic skirting boards and borders, you should think about additionally purchasing waterproof, quick-drying glue. Plastic skirting boards hide gaps up to 3 cm wide.

Procedure for installing plastic sealing elements:

• cleaning the gap from dust and dirt, thoroughly drying;
• measuring the sides of the bathtub for proper trimming of the baseboard;
• at the joints of the plinth it is necessary to trim at an angle of 45 degrees;
• we try on the trimmed border, and if everything matches, then apply masking tape along the edges of the bathtub and the wall (above the intended border) to protect it from glue;
• apply glue to the gap, proceed in accordance with the instructions on the packaging with the adhesive composition;
• install the plinth and carefully press it, fixing it for several minutes;
• remove the masking tape;
• We seal the joint of the baseboard with the wall and the bathtub with silicone compound.

• Installation of ceramic border. The most common material for cladding walls and floors in bathrooms is tile. That's why using ceramic borders It will fit as organically as possible into the design of such a bathroom. Big choice tiled borders allows you to make the side an attractive element of the interior, and not just the need to hide the gap.

When working with tiled borders, you should be especially careful due to the fact that the material is fragile. It’s worth taking care and taking a couple more elements than you need, so that in case of unforeseen circumstances you can replace the damaged one.

The procedure will be as follows:

• clean the working surfaces of the bathtub and walls;
• seal the gap around the perimeter using mounting foam or cement-sand mortar;
• Using special tile adhesive, lay ceramic elements and, if necessary, trim borders;
• rub all seams with the compound suitable color or use silicone sealant.

Large gaps

Sometimes conditions are created such that the bathtub is 7-8 centimeters smaller than the size of the room. Such cases require a special approach and a combination of sealing methods already known to us.

Most often, a cement mortar with a lining to fix it is used for rough sealing. The seal itself is in the form concrete surface is impractical and unaesthetic, as it can often cause allergic reactions and contribute to the accumulation of dust.

Let's look at several methods to solve this problem:

• in the simplest and most economical way finishing concrete covering is painting with acrylic or enamel paint;
• the use of plastic panels is also an economical solution;
• you can use the same material as on the walls, for example, tiles (this solution will fit harmoniously into the overall picture);

All of these methods can also be combined with curb tape or plastic curbs to prevent water from pooling in the corner of the joint.

Enough in an interesting way To close a large gap is to design not a border, but a functional shelf. This method is good both from the point of view of functionality and from the point of view of aesthetic appeal.

In this case, a metal profile frame , it must be lined with waterproof materials on top (tiles in this case will be the best choice).

A typical bathroom, as conceived by Soviet architects, was designed under standard size baths. That is, ideally, the width of the bathroom should be 171-172 cm (170 cm - a typical bathroom plus a gap of 0.5-1 cm on each side). But unfortunately, the realities of our apartments are such that the width of the bathroom can be either much wider or even wider than the already specified interval. Besides, modern market baths today offers various models, the configuration and dimensions of which are far from typical. As a result, a large gap between bathtub and wall. And so that water does not flow under the bath during water procedures, it is necessary to seal this gap. Systematic leakage of water into the gap under the bathtub not only increases the humidity in the room, but can lead to such unpleasant consequences as, oh, how not easy! Therefore, it is better to fix it in a timely manner gap between bathtub and wall.
If the resulting gap is from a few millimeters to a centimeter, then simply cover it with sealant. You need a waterproof sealant, preferably a professional one for a gun. If the gap is close to a centimeter, you will have to make several passes, gradually filling the entire width. The next layer is applied after the previous one has completely dried. I don't recommend using it tile grout. After hardening, they become hard and brittle; at the slightest deformation of the seam, they crack and fall out over time. Sealants, on the contrary, have a gelatinous structure and tolerate deformations well. The sealant can be chosen to match the tile, bathtub, grout, or colorless if you are afraid that it will turn yellow over time.

If gap between bathtub and wall concern you at the stage of laying the tiles, you can close it using special plastic corners for the tiles. The row of tiles is installed directly into the corner groove, the plastic part fits securely to the bathtub. This method is ideal if you have cast iron bath and the tiles are laid on the walls after they have been installed from the bathtub level. But to protect against leakage, you should still seal the perimeter of the bathtub with sealant before installing the corner. All of the above also applies to sealing the joint between the long side of the bathtub and the wall, since water can leak there too.
If the gap between the bathtub and the wall is more than 4 cm, then The best way for its sealing - ceramic tiles. In the absence of a factory screen, it is appropriate to make a common frame both for and for sealing the gap. True, in this case you will have to make a rigid foundation for it. Can be used as a base wooden blocks or boards or metal profiles for drywall. Depending on the width, it will be either one block, board, profile, or a frame sheathed on top with waterproof gypsum fiber sheet, plywood, fiberboard, etc. For wooden elements Waterproof impregnation is desirable.

We glue the tiles onto this structure using liquid nails. The seams of the tiles can be sealed with grout, and the junction with the bathtub is obligatory waterproof sealant. The advantage of this solution is the ability to use the resulting surface as a shelf for small items or install it if the bathtub is, for example, cast iron.
Most difficult case, When gap between bathtub and wall within 1 - 4 cm. The fact is that it is very difficult to cut a piece of tile less than 4 cm wide without breaking. Therefore, you will have to seal the gap with improvised means. Well, if your tile collection has a border of a suitable size, then the solution is similar to that described above. Another good “ready-made” option is corner plinth tiles.
Otherwise, use at your discretion: metal thresholds, plastic corners,
plastic skirting boards with a cable channel and a rubber edge in combination with corner connectors and plugs. Furniture skirting boards for kitchen countertops They look great to match the walls if the bathroom is lined with plastic panels. There are special borders on sale - tapes, but according to reviews they quickly come off.

When choosing one of these methods, you should understand that the above materials are only the decorative side of the issue, masking the joint. The gap itself must be sealed so that water does not leak through it. To do this, fill the gap between the bathtub and the wall with foam. When the foam dries, cut off the excess with a wallpaper knife and carefully apply sealant to the surface. By the way, a metal threshold or a plastic corner can be glued with the same sealant.
I would like to dwell in more detail on the installation of furniture and... [r]Their design is such that they can only be attached to the walls of the bathroom with all the ensuing consequences: drilling the tiles and installing clips or guides. From an aesthetic point of view, this is not an amateur decision. But there is one undoubted advantage: if you have a thin, unstable acrylic bathtub, then in this case gap between bathtub and wall will be reliably blocked during any movement.
Neatly sealed gap between bathtub and wall– another small step towards a flawless bathroom. Comfort to your home and see you on the blog.

Bathtub installation often becomes lengthy and labor-intensive process. After installation of the product is completed, a joint is usually formed between the bathtub and the tiles. We'll look at the best way to close this unsightly gap below. Such a seam looks very untidy and can completely negate the carefully thought-out design of the room. In addition, good sealing in areas where moisture can penetrate is very important in the bathroom. Failure to comply with this rule can cause mold and even destruction of wall and floor coverings.

Making an unattractive joint at the border with cladding

Many owners are interested in the question, how and with what to seal the gap between the bathtub and the wall in order to improve the overall aesthetics of the bathroom and the practicality of further use of the room. To do this, you need to take into account some nuances.

After installing the bathtub, there is often a gap between the wall and the side

First decide on the width of the clearance. We need to pay attention to temperature regime rooms, the shape and material of the bathtub, as well as the surface finish of the walls. Previously, to design such a joint they used only cement-sand mixture, however, progress and technology are constantly evolving. Today there are several options for solving this problem. Your choice only determines the distance from the wall to the side of the bathroom and personal preferences.

Small gap

If the gap does not exceed ten millimeters, it would be advisable sealing the seam between the bathtub and the wall using sanitary silicone, polyurethane foam, plastic corner or grout.

Silicone

Optimal problem solving, how to seal the joint between the bathtub and the wall, use plumbing sealant. Such polymer material designed to create a waterproofing layer. Once applied and dried, this substance forms a dense, elastic coating similar to a rubber surface.

The advantage of such a seal will be a reliable, non-toxic and durable layer of sealant that can withstand significant temperatures and ultraviolet radiation.

Plumbing silicone has sufficient adhesion, so it will easily adhere even to the glossy coating of tiles and bathtub enamel. Remember that an acid-based substance will cause corrosion on metal products.

Silicone sealant will do an excellent job of sealing the lumen

Polyurethane foam

To to seal the gap between the wall and the bathtub, it would be a good idea to use a waterproof construction foam. The polyurethane included in its composition helps the substance harden when exposed to air. When applied, the material fills all irregularities, therefore it contributes to good sound insulation and prevents heat loss. The low cost of polyurethane foam and high adhesive properties will be another advantage of its use.

Polyurethane foam will help with waterproofing the bathtub

However, a gap sealed in this way will not be completely sealed due to the porous structure of the substance. In addition, such a surface will require additional decor, as it looks extremely unattractive.

Grout and plastic corner

Both of these materials are not independent waterproof coatings. However, when, after applying silicone or polyurethane foam, the question arises, how to close the gap between the bathtub and the wall, the use of these products will become optimal solution. As a rule, they are needed only for decoration after applying a layer of unsightly sealants. It should be remembered that the width of the corner does not exceed fifteen millimeters, so it is not practical to decorate gaps of more than one centimeter with it.

On top of the sealant or polyurethane foam, you can apply grout to match the color of the tiles in the room

Medium-sized slots up to 30 millimeters

Sealing the seams between a bathtub and a medium-sized wall is usually done using a special baseboard, tiled frieze or border tape. It is worth noting that these materials are not independent sealants, therefore for high-quality insulation you should take care of purchasing additional silicone or foam.

Decorative tape

Bathroom sealant tape – This strip made from polyethylene. Its width will allow you to mask gaps of medium width, which are found in most cases. This material is cheap and very easy to use. High hydrophobic properties and presentable appearance allow you to use it as an independent coating, and not just as decoration. Many of these products have an antifungal additive, which will prevent the appearance of mold at the joint.

Border tape can be used as skylight decoration

Perhaps the main disadvantage of this material will be its fragility. The joint between the bathtub and the tiles designed in this way will last very little, a maximum of two years. However, subject to careful use, its service life is extended to five years.

Polymer plinth

Another solution to the problem, how to seal the joint between wall and bathroom, will be the purchase of a plastic baseboard. This product has decorative surface and very often it is used only for decoration. It is better not to purchase models that have self-adhesive tape designed to secure the element. This adhesive part is not waterproof.

Plastic skirting boards will help hide gaps up to three centimeters

Transparent adhesive for polymers will help securely fix the plinth, and you can additionally seal the product using silicone.

The best alternative to such a plinth would be a ceramic frieze. Installation using construction mixture for tiles guarantees excellent tightness and durability of the coating. In addition, a border purchased together with wall tiles will become an unusual addition to the interior design.

Large gaps

The question of how to seal a seam larger than three centimeters is usually not very relevant. However, there are situations when the dimensions of the bathtub smaller size walls, for example, by 7–8 cm. In this case, to seal the cracks on the sides of the container, you will need basic construction skills. Such a joint can only be formed using cement mortar. This method has long been known as the most reliable and durable. In addition, the cost of this work is quite low. However, you should know that the appearance of the concrete coating itself is not very aesthetically pleasing and will also turn yellow over time. Also, a cement surface contributes to the appearance of dust and can become a source of allergic diseases. To avoid negative consequences, rough coating should be painted over with enamel or acrylic paint or sew it up with decor. For this they usually use plastic panels, tiles and other waterproof finishing materials.

Sealing seams with cement will require additional decoration

Surface preparation

Before proceeding directly to filling the gap with one material or another, you must first prepare the surface. To do this, sand it thoroughly with sandpaper and degrease it with a solvent. A clean and free of grease film coating is ready for further installation.

It is important to consider that for reliable sealing, the material must extend onto the plane of the wall and bathtub by at least five millimeters. This will help to better secure the element and increase its water-repellent properties.

The key to a positive result of any event is competent preparation and installation. Each material has its own characteristics and nuances. To properly design the gap between the bathroom and the wall, you should inquire about the subtleties installation work each of the above products and substances.

Ceramic frieze will be an excellent alternative to plastic products

The main materials for ensuring sealing are polyurethane foam, sanitary silicone and cement mortar. However, a seam designed in this way will not look very attractive. To improve the aesthetic qualities of such a joint, you should purchase an additional decorative and protective coating based on the width of the gap.

Carrying out work with sealant

In order to make a seam using silicone, you do not need to have any special knowledge and skills. This material is carefully applied to the area with the gap. The sealant reacts with warm air, freezes. You should know that increasing the room temperature promotes rapid hardening of the material.

Before filling the gap with sealant, it is better to cover the adjacent surfaces with masking tape.

Approximately 15 minutes after applying silicone to the surface, carefully level the resulting layer and remove excess with a knife. To make the job easier, cover the wall and side of the bathroom with masking tape in advance so as not to stain the surface.

It is important to remember that before eliminating the gap between the wall and the acrylic bathtub, the product must be filled warm water, and only then start applying silicone. It is advisable to carry out such work in the evening so that the sealant dries by morning.

The approximate curing time for plumbing silicone is from five to six hours, depending on the composition of the material and the air temperature. However, you should know that experts recommend using the bathroom after such work no earlier than one day later.

Features of applying polyurethane foam

Polyurethane foam is good for its ease of use and quick hardening. It perfectly fills microcracks and uneven surfaces during application. To avoid foam getting on the coating, protect its surface masking tape, and after complete drying, cut off all excess with a knife.

In some cases, layer-by-layer application of foam may be appropriate. This method will help reduce the porous structure of the material, which will slightly increase its waterproof properties.

Work with cement-sand mixture

The longest and most labor-intensive method, but also the most durable, is to close the gap concrete mortar. To do this you need to purchase ready mixture and dilute it with water in the required proportion.

It is important to maintain the correct proportions of the finished cement mixture and water

When applying cement, try to be careful not to stain the bathtub and walls. It is better to use a small spatula for this.

The concrete solution dries completely in a few days. After the coating has completely cured, you can begin to apply decorative masking elements.

A hermetically sealed seam will prevent mold from growing in the bathroom

As you can see, there are different methods close the gap between the side of the bath and the wall. There is no universal way. Typically, owners use combinations of several options for sealing an unattractive joint based on personal preferences. Remember that a well-insulated bathtub will help prevent mold from growing indoors and prevent the coatings behind it from deteriorating. In addition, a decorative masking coating on the sealant layer will enhance the overall aesthetic qualities of the bathroom.

Increased air humidity and water splashes that occur while bathing in the bathtub are main reason the appearance of mold, fungi and unpleasant odors V sanitary unit. To prevent moisture from penetrating into the walls and floor, you need to not only install the flooring correctly and wall tiles, but also give Special attention sealing joints. A high-quality bathroom sealant will not only help prevent mold in the room, but also reduce the risk of flooding for neighbors below. But so that no problems arise during the installation process and during its further operation, you should carefully study the technology of its installation and select the right material that will be used to seal the joints.

Sealing methods

To seal the seam between the wall and the bathtub, you can use the following materials:

1. Polyurethane foam. The fastest and most economical way to seal the joint between the bathtub and the wall is to use polyurethane foam. But in many cases this technology is inappropriate, since cracks treated with this material look extremely unaesthetic and spoil the interior of the room.
2. Sealant. If the seam between the wall and the bathtub is small (no more than 1.5-2 cm), it can be sealed with a special sealant. These materials come in three types - acrylic, silicone and combined. Sealing a bathtub using such compounds will be more expensive and will require more time than in the case of polyurethane foam. But a joint sealed with synthetic sealant will be 100 percent protected from moisture penetration.
3. Skirting boards. PVC profiles with self-adhesive tape look more aesthetically pleasing and attractive. Thanks to them, the seam will be almost invisible, and moisture will not penetrate through it onto the walls and floor.

If you are going to seal the joint between the bathtub and the wall using silicone sealant, you should not buy the first compound that comes to hand. Study the labels on several cans and pay attention to the following characteristics:

1. Rubber concentration. It is desirable that the sealant contains at least 40-50% rubber impurities. The higher this indicator, the more effective the material will be.
2. Pigment concentration. The pigment (hydrophobic filler) should be present in the sealant in approximately the same concentration as the rubber. If it is too small, the joint between the wall and the bathtub will quickly depressurize due to constant exposure to moisture, and it will have to be re-sealed.
3. Weight. For work, one can weighing 0.5 kg will be enough for you. But you should not buy material in too small quantities. After all, products from different batches can differ significantly in properties, and because of this, one fragment of the seam can depressurize faster than another.

Please note: there are two types of silicone sealant - acidic and neutral. It is the second one that is the only material that contains special additives against the appearance of fungus. There are no such impurities in other compositions.

Features of acrylic sealants
There are two types of acrylic bathroom sealant - moisture-resistant and non-resistant. Of course, to work in conditions high humidity you need to choose the first one. The main difference between acrylic compositions and silicone ones is that they are less elastic. Therefore, if the bathtub is not secured firmly enough (there is a slight play), then use acrylic products will be inappropriate.

In addition, such compositions have a number of specific properties:

1. Color stability. Colored bathroom sealant made on the basis of acrylic does not lose its original color with prolonged use.
2. Practicality. The joint between the wall and the bathtub, sealed with an acrylic mixture, can be further treated with plaster and any paint.
3. Safety. Unlike other formulations, such products do not contain organic solvents. Therefore, they are absolutely safe and do not cause skin irritation if accidentally dropped into water while swimming.

Preparatory stage

Before starting work, it is necessary to remove from the room all construction debris that remained after installing the bathroom, wipe the walls from dust and wait until the working surfaces are completely dry. After this, they must be degreased with alcohol, acetone or gasoline. To prevent the mixture from getting onto visible areas of the walls, masking tape is glued to the seam borders in advance. This will avoid excessive contamination of the surfaces and make the joint perfectly smooth.

Please note: to make the process of applying the sealant easier, the can should be left in a warm place for a while before starting. If the temperature of the mixture is slightly higher than the air temperature in the bathroom, the joints will be much easier to apply and level.

Sealant application procedure

After the wall and adjacent side of the bathroom are prepared, you can proceed directly to the procedure. Sealing seams in the bathroom is performed using the same technology, regardless of the type of sealant used (whether it is acrylic, silicone or a combination):

1. Using scissors, cut off the plastic spout on the can of sealant. If the joint is narrow enough, it should be cut closer to the edge (so that the seam does not turn out to be too wide).
2. Using gentle and smooth movements, the bathroom sealant is squeezed out of the can onto the work surfaces. The seam should be smooth and continuous. Otherwise, the joint between the wall and the adjacent side of the bathtub will not be airtight.
3. As the mixture is applied, the seam should be carefully smoothed with a finger dipped in soapy water. It will not cause any harm to the skin on your hands.
4. After the joint is completely sealed, the seam should dry thoroughly. You should not rush and turn on the water in the bathroom on the first day after completion of the work.

How to fill large gaps with baseboards

If the gap between the wall and the bathtub is wide enough (more than 2 cm), you can use a PVC skirting board to seal it. To do this, it is advisable to choose a self-adhesive profile. It contains a special adhesive tape, which significantly simplifies the installation technology and eliminates the need to use additional adhesives.

Sealing a bath using such materials is done as follows:

1. Adjacent surfaces are thoroughly cleaned and degreased. If there is any dust or residue left on them construction waste, self-adhesive tape will not be able to ensure tight contact between the bathtub and the wall.
2. Next, you need to cut a piece of plinth of the required width. To do this, you can use an ordinary hacksaw.
3. Masking tape should be applied to the areas where curb adhesive tape will be applied.
4. If necessary, you can pre-blow out the gap with foam (but this step is not mandatory).
5. By using construction hair dryer the baseboard is heated to the temperature at which it is activated adhesive tape(about 60-70 degrees).
6. Next, the plinth is tightly glued to the surface. In order for the tape to ensure a tight fastening, the profile should be pressed firmly against the joint for a few seconds.
7. After installing the baseboard, small gaps may remain. They can be sealed using a can of silicone sealant.
8. Upon completion of work, it is necessary to leave the bathroom for approximately 12-24 hours until the walls and seams are completely dry.

If the baseboards do not have adhesive tape, you can use liquid nails to secure them. They are applied to both surfaces to be glued, after which the profile is laid. However, you should not immediately press it with great force. You need to wait 2-3 minutes, and only then can it be gently pressed into the joint. At the final stage, you should trim off the excess hardened glue and wait until the working surfaces are completely dry.

Video: how to seal the seam between the bathtub and the wall

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