In a kitchen with Formica, hardwood or bamboo countertops, water can cause expensive damage. When fitting new appliances, or adding a new kitchen sink, many homeowners tend to overlook the fact that silicone sealer needs to be applied around these, to prevent water ingress into the countertop material.
Applying a silicone sealer barrier around a sink or hob takes about 10 minutes to do, and could save you hundreds of Rands, so it’s definitely a worthwhile project to undertake.
You may also need to replace silicone sealer where it peels away over time.
HERE’S HOW:
1. To start, use masking tape to mask off the areas above and below where the silicone sealer is being applied. This not only makes clean up easier, it also leave a nice, neat edge.
GOOD TO KNOW
Silicone sealer is available in a variety of colours, as well as transparent, so choose the one that will be the least visible once applied.
2. Buy the product in a cartridge and use a caulking gun to apply the silicone sealer. Most products now come with a cap that can be used to extend the life of the product in storage. A caulking gun allows you to squeeze out a single, solid bead of silicone in a thin line. Have a piece of tissue paper or kitchen roll handy and use your fingertip to wipe away any excess sealer, wiping this into the tissue as you work.
3. Remove the masking tape before the sealer has time to cure and you will be left with a clean line of silicone sealer that will protect your countertops from moisture.
