The correct way to look after a bathroom

Prime Builds Blog · Maintenance tips

Daily and weekly habits

• After each shower, leave the door or curtain open and run the extractor fan (or open a window) for 10–15 minutes to reduce condensation.
• Wipe down glass and tiles with a squeegee or microfiber cloth a few times a week to limit limescale and soap scum.
• Use a mild bathroom cleaner rather than harsh acids on chrome, brass and painted surfaces.

Grout and tiles

• Clean grout with a soft brush and a pH‑neutral cleaner; avoid aggressive scrubbing that wears the surface.
• If grout starts to stain or go black, consider a grout refresh or resealing rather than just painting over it.

Silicone seals

• Check silicone around baths, showers and basins every few months. Black spots or peeling mean it’s time to replace it.
• Good ventilation and quick drying after use will make silicone last longer.

When to call a professional

• Persistent leaks, loose tiles, or soft/spongy floors around the bath or shower should be checked before they become bigger jobs.
• If you’re planning a refresh, getting advice early can save money on materials and avoid rework.

How to remove old silicone

Prime Builds Blog · DIY guide

Tools and materials

• Sharp utility knife or silicone removal tool
• Plastic scraper or old credit card
• Silicone remover gel (optional but helpful)
• Clean rags, methylated spirits or white spirit
• New sanitary silicone and a caulking gun

Step‑by‑step

1. Cut along both edges of the old bead with a sharp knife, then lift the silicone away in strips.
2. Use a plastic scraper to remove any remaining film; avoid scratching acrylic, enamel or tiles.
3. Apply silicone remover gel if there’s stubborn residue; follow the product instructions and ventilate the room.
4. Clean the joint thoroughly with methylated spirits and let it dry completely.
5. Apply a neat bead of new sanitary silicone, smooth with a tooling tool or finger dipped in soapy water, and leave to cure as directed.

Tips

• Work in good light and take your time on the cut – a clean joint makes the new bead look much better.
• Do not use the shower or bath until the new silicone has fully cured.

Where is the valve to stop water in case of a burst?

Prime Builds Blog · Emergency guidance

Main stopcock (inside the property)

• Often under the kitchen sink, in a utility cupboard, or near the entrance where the water supply enters the house.
• It looks like a brass valve with a wheel handle. Turn clockwise to close.
• Check now that it turns freely; if it’s stiff, a plumber can service or replace it before there’s an emergency.

External stop tap (boundary box)

• Usually in the pavement or front garden under a small metal or plastic cover marked “Water”.
• You may need a special key to turn it; if you don’t have one, keep the number of a local plumber or your water company handy.

Local isolation valves

• Many basins, toilets and showers have small isolation valves on the flexible tails or pipework nearby.
• These let you turn off water to one fixture without cutting supply to the whole house.

In an emergency

1. Turn off electricity at the consumer unit if water is near sockets, lights or appliances.
2. Close the main stopcock or external stop tap as quickly as possible.
3. Call a plumber and, if needed, your water company’s emergency line.