How to Replace a Shower Door Seal

Shower door seals are a simple but necessary structures that keeps water inside the shower and prevent what can be costly water damage to surrounding building materials. The rubber seal material can become cracked and less pliable and therefore less effective as a seal over time. The adhesive on the door seals can fail as well sometimes damaging the seal at the same time. The good news is that replacing the seal is an easy DIY project that can be accomplished in minutes.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Putty knife
• Isopropyl alcohol
• Solvent (Goo gone or Lift Off)
• Clean rags
• Mild detergent
• Replacement seal
• Scissors
• Silicone caulking
• Screwdriver

1. Remove the damaged seal or whats left of it, and the adhesive, by pulling slowly and gently on the seal. If needed, use a plastic putty knife to push the seal and adhesive off being careful not to scratch the shower door.

2. Wipe adhesive residue off with a clean rag dipped in isopropyl alcohol or with an adhesive solvent, like Goo Gone or Lift Off, if the alcohol does not work on its own. Wash the area for the new seal with a mild detergent solution and warm water. Dry thoroughly before proceeding.

3. Dry fit the new seal along the door edge and trim cut the seal to fit as necessary.

4. Peel the adhesive backing off of preglued seal and press onto the door surface, starting at one end and smoothing down the seal to the opposite end. For seals without adhesive backing, run a bead of silicone caulking along the door and press the seal into the silicone with even pressure from one end to the other.

5. Clean up any excess silicone that oozes out behind the seal with a clean, damp rag. Allow the silicone to dry and cure for at least 36 hours before using the shower and exposing it to water.

Tips & Warnings

• If the seal seems heavy, drooping or listing to one side on the door while the adhesive is wet, use masking tape to brace the seal into it proper position while it dries.