Preparing to Apply Silicone: Impact of Cleaning with Methylated Spirits on Shower Plug Sealant

[Josh86]

I’ve applied shower plug sealant in my shower. Should I wipe the corners with methylated spirits before applying silicone, or will this affect the effectiveness of the sealant?

[Jewelleryrescue]

Hi @Josh86 

Methylated spirits is denatured  alchohol meaning there is stuff added to make it unpalatable to would be drinkers.  That added stuff will leave a white residue at times.  So you better  off using absolute  alcohol from the  chemist usually. How ever  alcohol  will bond with any water molucules and dispurse light moisture if  present and the remaining spirit will self evaporate leaving  things  dry.

Realistic  solution.

But really wiping down the the plug  with a clean  white lint free cloth  so the area is bone dry will serve you well Make sure the  area is bone  dry for a good silicone seal first time around.  If you wish use a hair  dryer on the area  first not to  close to  plastic as it   may melt  or disfigure.

Hope  this helps.

[JacobZ]

Hi @Josh86,

Thank you for your question about using methylated spirits to clean your shower before applying silicone sealant.

I believe you are saying you've used CPC Shower Plug Sealant in your shower and you're concerned that methylated spirits can affect it.

If you haven't given it sufficient time to cure then yes, it can affect the Shower Plug Sealant. However, if you let it cure for 48 hours or so before cleaning it with methylated spirits and applying your silicone, you shouldn't have any issues, but it is still worth doing a test in a small inconspicuous area before proceeding with your intended use.

Let me know if you have any further questions.

Jacob