February 2, 2024

Do I Need a Silicone Sealant for my Shower Seat?

Using a silicone sealant when installing your shower seat is completely optional and comes down to personal preference as well as a few factors about the type of shower seat you are installing. However, it is highly recommended to use a silicone sealant when installing a shower seat as this will help protect them from water damage in full water contact areas. Essentially, if you do not use a silicone sealant, water can get behind the shower seat flange cover and eventually corrode the stainless steel metal over time. The main reason you should use a silicone sealant when installing your shower seats is to protect the metal from water damage, rust and prolong the lifespan of your shower seat.

Overall, it is not required to use a silicone sealant when installing shower seats; however, it is recommended for those who prefer a more secure installation and hope to keep their shower seats performing their best for many years to come.

What factors should I keep in mind when deciding whether or not to use a silicone sealant with my shower seat?

Is your shower seat wall-mounted?

• If so, it is highly recommended to apply a silicone sealant around the edges of the flange covers. This will create a watertight seal and prevent water from seeping behind the seat and into the wall structure, potentially causing mold or rot. This will also improve water resistance and help prevent leaks behind the shower seat, which is especially important if your wall material is susceptible to water damage, like drywall. While not required, applying a silicone sealant is highly recommended in this instance. 

Is your shower seat free standing?

• If so, a silicone sealant is not necessary as it would prevent you from moving the shower seat in and out of or around the shower.

Why should I use a silicone sealant when installing my shower seat?

Enhanced Water Resistance:

• Showers are constantly exposed to water, and even small gaps around your shower seat can allow water to seep in. Silicone creates a watertight seal that prevents water from getting behind the shower seat and into the wall structure. This not only protects your walls from potential water damage and mold growth but also extends the lifespan of your shower seat itself.

Leak Prevention:

• Over time, with constant exposure to water and temperature changes, the screws or anchors holding your shower seat in place can loosen slightly. Silicone effectively fills any small gaps that may develop, preventing leaks and ensuring your shower seat remains securely mounted.

Mold and Mildew Mitigation:

• Bathrooms are naturally humid environments, and standing water or trapped moisture can create perfect breeding grounds for mold and mildew. Silicone acts as a barrier, preventing water from accumulating in areas where mold thrives, keeping your shower clean and healthy and your shower seat protected.

Improved Aesthetics:

• Professionally applied silicone creates a clean, finished look around your shower seat, enhancing the overall aesthetics of the bathroom.

Peace of mind:

• Even if your shower seat seems secure, knowing you have an extra layer of protection against water damage can offer peace of mind.

How do I install my shower seat using a silicone sealant?

It is highly recommended to install your shower seat and then seal the edges of the flange cover with the silicone sealant. It is best to leave a bit of the bottom part of the flange cover unsealed so that if water gets behind the flange, it will be able to drain out of the bottom. Clear silicone sealant won’t crack over time and is waterproof, which provides a reliable seal around the shower seat and enhanced safety for users.

Overall, while not always mandatory, using silicone for your shower seat provides several benefits like improved water resistance, leak prevention, and mold mitigation. Consider the factors mentioned above to decide if it’s the right choice for your specific situation.

Take a look at our wide variety of shower seats here: Shower Seats

If you have any additional questions about shower seats, live chat with us at ShowerSeats.com, email us at [email protected] or call us at 704-800-4629 and we’ll be happy to help you out!