11/10/2026
Shower silicone seems simple β but there are real reasons it fails, and it is not always just age.
Here are the most common causes:
π Movement β Buildings move. Shower structures move. Silicone is designed to accommodate some degree of this β but over time, repeated movement can cause it to pull away from surfaces or crack.
β³ Age β Silicone has a useful life. In a wet environment with daily use, it does not last indefinitely β and that is completely normal.
π§ Moisture and mould β Persistent moisture and mould growth can degrade the silicone material itself, causing it to become brittle, discolour, or lose its adhesion.
β οΈ Poor preparation during installation β If the substrate was not properly cleaned, dried, and prepared before application, adhesion will be compromised β sometimes within months rather than years.
π§± Deteriorated substrate β In some cases, the surface the silicone is adhering to has deteriorated. Applying new silicone to a compromised substrate is unlikely to deliver a lasting result.
When silicone is replaced correctly, the process involves fully removing all existing material, cleaning and preparing the surface, allowing adequate drying time, and then applying the new sealant properly.
Silicone applied over existing silicone β or over an unprepared surface β is unlikely to perform well, regardless of the product used.
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