Frequently asked questions

1. How long should sealant cure before I can shower? expand_more

For a watertight result, sanitary silicone should cure for at least 24 hours. The surface can look dry quickly, but the core may still be soft. Showering too soon can cause peeling and leaks.

👉 Related: Bathroom sealing

2. What does a caulker cost per meter or per hour in 2026? expand_more

Many caulkers charge roughly €7–€12 per linear meter, but we work with fixed pricing. That way you know the cost upfront—no surprises afterwards.

👉 Price estimate: Prices & Packages

3. Can you apply new sealant over old silicone? expand_more

No. New silicone doesn’t bond properly to old silicone. For a durable result, the old sealant must be removed completely, and the joint must be cleaned/degreased before new sealant goes in.

👉 Related: Sealant replacement

4. Why does my sealant turn black or get moldy? expand_more

Usually poor ventilation and/or cheap sealant. Mold can embed in the silicone. We use mold-resistant OTTOSEAL (e.g., S100) that stays cleaner for longer.

👉 Related: Sealant replacement

5. Is leakage from failed sealant insured? expand_more

Often not. Many insurers treat worn sealant as maintenance. Replacing sealant on time is usually far cheaper than paying for water damage repairs yourself.

6. Which sealant colour works best with grey or anthracite tiles? expand_more

We often advise matching the sealant colour to the grout (e.g., silver grey or anthracite) for the cleanest look. We can bring a colour chart to get the best match on-site.

👉 Related: Inspection & advice

7. How do you remove silicone yourself without damaging tiles? expand_more

You can use a sealant knife and silicone remover—but one slip can scratch tiles or a shower tray. We use professional tools to remove it cleanly and safely.

👉 Related: Sealant replacement

8. Do you seal shower drains and linear drains with 2-component sealant? expand_more

Yes. Drains can move slightly due to temperature and use. 2-component sealant is stronger and more resilient, helping keep the drain watertight long-term.

👉 Related: Bathroom sealing

9. Why does sealant crack in my new-build home? expand_more

New-build homes ‘move’ as they settle and materials expand/contract. That puts joints under tension. We use highly elastic sealant, but after 1–2 years, touch-ups are common in new builds.

10. What’s the difference between silicone and acrylic sealant? expand_more

Silicone is for wet areas (water-resistant). Acrylic is paintable and for dry areas like skirting boards and ceilings. Never use acrylic in a shower/bathroom.

👉 Related: Skirting & floors

11. How can I tell if there’s a leak behind my shower tray? expand_more

Watch for loose sealant, black staining in corners, damp patches on adjacent walls, or a musty smell. If you suspect a leak, it’s best to act quickly.

👉 Related: Inspection & advice

12. Do you seal natural stone and marble without staining? expand_more

Yes. For marble and natural stone we use stone-safe sealant (e.g., OTTOSEAL S70) to help prevent edge staining.

👉 Related: Kitchen sealing

13. Can I use black sealant in the bathroom? expand_more

Yes—black sealant looks great, but it’s unforgiving: every imperfection shows. We specialise in tight, clean black lines for a modern look.

👉 Related: Bathroom sealing

14. How long is your warranty on sealant work? expand_more

We provide a standard 2-year warranty on adhesion and workmanship, provided the substrate is stable and the 24-hour curing time is respected.

15. Do you seal wooden floors and parquet edges? expand_more

Yes. We seal the transition between floor and skirting boards in a colour that suits the wood or skirting, so it looks clean and finished.

👉 Related: Skirting & floors

16. How quickly can you come to a job in Amsterdam? expand_more

We often have availability within 48 hours in Amsterdam and the Randstad. For urgent cases, WhatsApp us photos and we’ll check options right away.

17. Is clear sealant better than coloured sealant? expand_more

Clear sealant is common around glass shower panels. For tile corners, a colour-matched sealant often looks cleaner and more professional than clear.

18. Should I fill the bathtub with water before you seal it? expand_more

For acrylic/plastic tubs, yes. The tub can flex slightly under weight. Sealing while it’s loaded reduces tension in the joint later.

19. Do you seal windows and exterior frames on the outside too? expand_more

Yes. We seal windows/frames inside and outside where needed to reduce drafts and moisture ingress.

👉 Related: Windows & frames

20. What’s the best sealant for a composite countertop? expand_more

For composite we use a hygienic, durable sealant that resists daily cleaning and helps prevent staining around joints and sink edges.

👉 Related: Kitchen sealing

21. Can I have sealing done by a general handyman? expand_more

You can, but sealing is a specialised skill. A dedicated caulker has the tools and technique to deliver tight, watertight joints that look clean and last longer.

22. Why does sealant peel away from my shower tray? expand_more

Common causes are poor degreasing/prep before sealing, or movement in the shower tray. We maximise adhesion with correct cleaning, priming where needed, and the right sealant choice.

23. What is ‘paintable’ sealant? expand_more

Usually acrylic sealant or a hybrid polymer. It’s used for skirting boards or frames you want to paint. Sanitary silicone is not paintable.

👉 Related: Skirting & floors

24. Do you seal the kitchen behind the stove as well? expand_more

Yes. We seal countertop/backsplash joints so grease and moisture can’t creep behind cabinets.

👉 Related: Kitchen sealing

25. Why do you use OTTOSEAL instead of a store brand? expand_more

Because OTTOSEAL is pro-grade: stronger adhesion, cleaner finish, better durability and less discoloration compared to many budget options.