VIDEO: How long does silicone have to dry?

How does silicone dry?

Silicone is used on sinks, bathtubs and shower trays as joint insulation or to glue a wide variety of materials. After just one hour, the outermost layer of the silicone joint appears hard, but is not yet resilient. The material always hardens from the outside in, so that there is still a soft core under the hard shell. You shouldn't put any strain on the silicone grout while it dries out.

Mechanical stress is just as harmful as moisture stress. Mechanical loads deform the still soft material and make the joints leaky. Water, on the other hand, helps loosen the silicone joints and thus also causes damage.

Drying time - calculate with a rule of thumb

A rule of thumb is that a millimeter thick silicone grout takes about a day to cure. The drying time therefore depends on how many millimeters of silicone have been processed. For example, three millimeters need around three days to harden. Always observe the information on the cartridge, which can vary from manufacturer to manufacturer.

Accelerate drying

Do not take the drying time or drying time for silicone too literally. The silicone plastic is soft when applied, but not wet. However, it needs air contact to harden. You can therefore accelerate the drying process in the jointed space with good ventilation.

Too high humidity makes curing difficult. At the beginning of the drying time the material is still water soluble. If the room temperature is too warm, it will also prolong the drying process. The ideal room temperature is crucial for the material to dry out and is ideally around 20 degrees.

Process silicone correctly

Before starting new grouting, remove all residues of old grouting. With the help of a liquid silicone remover, you can clean the grout like a professional. This is the only way to ensure that the seal is guaranteed after curing.

The application of the material with the cartridge gun should be done quickly. After just 15 minutes, you will no longer be able to make any more repairs. The silicone quickly becomes rigid and insoluble in water. To make corrections, dip the fingertip of your index or middle finger in some water with washing-up liquid and carefully smooth the corresponding area.

Please note the following when processing silicone:

• Remove all old grout residues beforehand.
• Clean the area to be jointed with a special agent.
• Quickly apply the silicone with a cartridge gun.
• Only make corrections shortly after application with your finger and washing-up liquid.
• Ensure sufficient drying time.

Silicone is a versatile material. Always allow a long drying time when using it, so that no damage occurs.