Which materials make the most durable shower seals?

Silicone as a Top Choice for Durable Shower Seals

Silicone shower seals are known for their durability in the industry. Showers are filled with moisture, so the seals have to be water resistant. Silicone shower seals can withstand years of water exposure. Other materials are prone to cracking, peeling, or warping under long-term exposure, but the seals made of silicone will withstand the hot showers as well as the cold air in the bathroom. Another steam shower benefit is the resistance to mold and mildew. They can thrive in the damp and warm environment, mold will slowly destroy weaker seals over time. This is a problem for all shower seals, but with silicone, the problem is avoided. The flexible nature of silicone allows for easy installation for all shower types and edges, so a flexible seal can be made to stop water from leaking. Durable is the best option for anyone looking for long-lasting shower seals. Silicone shower seals will certainly withstand the test of time.

EPDM Rubber: Another Highly Durable Rubber Shower Seal Options

EPDM rubber is another material that produces highly durable shower seals. Shower seals made from EPDM rubber are known for their strong elasticity and resistance to wear and tear. It can go through repeated contact with water, soap, and shampoo (the main materials of a shower) without being harmed. EPDM rubber shower seals are also resistant to UV rays, which is beneficial for sunlight-exposed shower areas, as weak shower seals can UV damage over time. EPDM rubber shower seals are unlike cheaper rubber materials that harden and brittle after several months; instead, shower seals EPDM rubber continues to be flexible to provide a snug seal against water leaks. They are also easy to clean, which helps to keep their appearance and performance. For those needing shower seals that can endure heavy daily usage, EPDM rubber is a tough and durable option that is on par with silicone.

Why PVC Might Not Be the Best Choice for Shower Seals Long-Term

While PVC can be used for shower seals, it's not the best option for the durability needed for long-term use. PVC shower seals can work for a time, but seals start to break down sooner than expected when they come into contact with moisture and heat changes. In bathrooms with consistently hot showers, seals will harden, become brittle, and eventually crack, preventing them from sealing. Out of shower seal options, PVC seals have the highest tendency to support mold growth due to their porous surface. Mold will grow on PVC seals more easily than on silicone shower seals or EPDM rubber. Shower seals will also have gaps from leaked water using PVC as a seal due to its tendency to shrink and expand with temperature. If shower seals are the only option for you and you would like to avoid endless replacement PVC seals would be the best option even if it isn't the best long-term solution to use, it would be the lower cost choice for short-term use.

How to Pick the Best Material for Your Shower Seals

When it comes to choosing the best material for your shower seals, understanding your needs is the first priority. For the ultimate in stretchability and mold resistance, silicone shower seals are the best option. They function in every part of the bathroom, especially the ones with high humidity. If your bathroom seals will be subjected to heavy abuse and bathroom products, you should consider choosing EPDM rubber shower seals. They are highly durable and elastic. If you want shower seals for permanent use, do not choose PVC as these are made for temporary use and lighter duty. Since the design of your shower should also be a consideration, some materials are easier to work with for customizing curved edges or other shower enclosure details. Ultimately, the material will decide how durable your shower seals are, how much your space will leak, and how often you will need to replace your shower seals.