View Full Version : Silconing tile edges.
makka619
4th December 2006, 06:35 PM
Any tips for how I can silicone the corners of the tiling job. The tiler didn't do it.
It is so hard. I have an applier gun. I have tried tape, but it is a horrible mess.
Pulse
4th December 2006, 07:23 PM
Use masking tape, apply a neat, small bead with a good quality gun. Smooth with either a finger dipped in turps or detergent solution. Then immediately remove the tape. I have a roll of loo paper nearby to wipe up excess.
Good luck
Pulse
Jack E
4th December 2006, 08:11 PM
Run the silicone where you want the bead, spray the silicone and surrounding area with a detergent/water mix, wipe off the excess silicone with a paddle pop stick.
The stick gives a good looking bead and the detergent prevents the silicone sticking apart from where it initially comes into contact with the tiles.
No need for tape.
All the tilers and plumbers I have seen in action do it this way.
Cheers, Jack
makka619
6th December 2006, 10:27 PM
Thanks guys. I can't using masking tape, because when I pull it off it just messes the whole thing up.
Jack E, I will gave the spray a go.
Thanks:D
dalejw
7th December 2006, 09:22 AM
I've don e a few of these an made a mess of a lot of the time until I found an applicator and some smoothing compound made by this mob.
http://www.robertsdesigns.com.au/silicones/silicone-accessories.html
Works like a charm. The applicator is just a cureved piece of silicone rubber that gives you a nice even curve. The handling fluid stops the silicone sticking to everything.
All the gear is available from bunnings.
An application guide is available here.
http://www.robertsdesigns.com.au/howto/easytoapply.html
I also find the selleys lightspeed frameless caulking gun to be about the best I've used. Non drip, well geared for good control and about $15 from bunnings. Interesting design as it holds the tube at the back rather than having the frame around the front.
Bob38S
7th December 2006, 10:13 AM
Have had pretty good success using tape to define the edges - Do use detergent and Don't use a finger to spread - wherever the fingers have been used it appears to promote the growth of mould.
My spreader is in fact a piece of 1/2" black poly drip irrigation pipe. It has a "built in curve" from being rolled up and forms a consistent shape when pushed into the angle defined by the tape. As it is reasonably rigid you don't get a wavy finger line + no messy fingers + no mould - when the tape is removed, a light pass [if necessary] with the piece of pipe ensures a neat sealed edge.
Works for me, hope it does for you.
Regards,
Bob