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Whether you’re tackling a bathroom makeover or sealing around a kitchen sink, applying sealant correctly can make all the difference to the look and longevity of your project. Sealant not only fills gaps and prevents leaks, but it also helps keep mould and moisture at bay. With the right tools, techniques, and a bit of know-how, anyone can achieve a smooth, professional-looking finish. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know - so you can seal with confidence and get results that last.

What Can Sealant Be Used On?

Sealant can be used on a variety of surfaces:

  • Glass, metal, wood, most plastics, stone, brick, concrete.
  • Ceramics & tiles, countertops, painted surfaces, mirrors.
  • Baths, toilets, window frames, sinks & basins, door frames.

Tools Needed

  • Sealant – Suitable for your specific application.
  • Sealant Gun – For applying the sealant.
  • Scissors or Sharp Knife – To cut the nozzle to the desired bead width.
  • Cleaner & Cloths – To remove grease, dust, and debris from the surface.
  • Utility Knife or Sealant Remover Tool – For cutting away any old sealant.
  • Finishing Tool – To smooth and shape the bead.

Optional:

  • Masking Tape – To mask edges for a neat finish.
  • Water – If sealing around a bathtub, fill it before starting.
  • Glass Cleaner – Lightly spray before tooling for a smoother finish.

How to Apply Sealant

1. Surface Preparation

Ensure all surfaces are clean, dry, and free from grease, dust, loose material, or other contaminants that could affect adhesion. For best results, wipe down the area with a suitable cleaner and allow it to dry completely before proceeding.

2. Remove Old Sealant (if necessary)

Carefully cut away any old or damaged sealant using a scraper or utility knife. Ensure no residue remains, as new sealant will not adhere properly to old material.

3. Mask Edges with Tape for a Neat Finish (optional)

Apply masking tape along the edges of the joint to create a clean, straight line. If sealing around a bathtub, fill it with water first. This allows the tub to settle under weight so the sealant forms a more reliable and long-lasting seal once cured.

4. Cut the Nozzle to the Desired Bead Width

Using scissors or a utility knife, cut the tip of the sealant cartridge nozzle at a 45° angle to match the size of the bead you need. The further down the nozzle you cut, the wider the bead will be.

5. Apply Using a Standard Sealant Gun

Load the cartridge into the sealant gun and apply steady, even pressure to dispense an even bead along the joint. Work in manageable sections. Tool the surface within 5–10 minutes of application using a wet finger or a finishing tool to smooth and shape the bead. 

6. Remove Masking Tape Immediately After Tooling

If you used tape in Step 3, peel away the tape carefully before the sealant skins over to avoid pulling at the edges. 

How To Apply Sealant

Drying & Curing Information

For Hemway Sealant: 

  • Tack-free in 10–20 minutes at 23°C and 50% relative humidity.
  • Skin-dry in approximately 13 minutes.
  • Fully cured in 24 hours at ~3.5 mm depth (deeper joints may require more time).
  • Do not disturb or paint over until the sealant is fully cured for maximum performance.
By Sarah Spragg
Published: 15 Aug 2025
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