Professional Guide

Best Kitchen Silicone for Installation & Care: 2025 Expert Review

DJ

DR Joinery

Expert Joiner & Kitchen Specialist

Published 16 December 2025

Water ingress is the silent killer of any kitchen, especially in the older terraced properties we see so often around York where damp can already be a battle. A failed silicone seal behind a sink or worktop can lead to blown chipboard and rot within months.

However, 'kitchen silicone' isn't just about the sealant. As a joiner who takes pride in installing flawless oak and laminate worktops, I also look for products that help homeowners maintain that finish. Using the right silicone accessories can add years to the life of your kitchen surfaces.

In this review, I am looking at three essential silicone products: a trade-standard sealant for robust waterproofing, a clever pressure-pack option for difficult corners, and a high-quality silicone utensil set that I frequently recommend to clients to protect their new installation.

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Specs vs. The Real World

The Spec: "'Anti-Mould' Guarantee"

The Theory

"Manufacturers often claim their sealant will prevent mould growth indefinitely."

The Reality

In York's humid climate, no sealant is magic. 'Anti-mould' means it contains a fungicide that delays growth, but without regular cleaning and ventilation, mould will eventually return. Regular maintenance is key.

The Spec: "Touch Dry in 20 Minutes"

The Theory

"You can use the sealant area shortly after application."

The Reality

Whilst the skin might form quickly, the core takes much longer to cure. If you splash water on it too soon, you risk compromising the adhesion. I always advise clients to leave the sink alone for a full 24 hours to be safe.

My Top 3 Recommendations

Three options to cover different needs and budgets

UniBond Anti-Mould White, Waterproof Mould Protection, Long-lasting White Silicone Sealant for Kitchen & Bathroom

Budget Pick
UniBond Anti-Mould White, Waterproof Mould Protection, Long-lasting White Silicone Sealant for Kitchen & Bathroom

Unibond

This is the bread-and-butter product for any joiner. If you already have a sealant gun, this cartridge offers excellent value and professional performance. It provides a robust, waterproof seal that is essential for bridging the gap between worktops and tiled splashbacks.

Price£9.00 (at time of writing)
FormatStandard Cartridge (requires gun)
Cure TimeTouch dry in 20 mins, fully dry 24h
The Good
  • Excellent adhesion to tile and laminates
  • Anti-mould formula helps in humid kitchens
  • Cost-effective for larger jobs or full kitchen refits
The Bad
  • Requires a sealant gun (sold separately)
  • Can be messy if you are inexperienced with gun control

Installer Tip:

When applying this along a worktop, fill the bath or sink with water first if you are sealing around them. The weight opens the gap slightly. If you seal it empty, the silicone might pull away when the sink is full heavy use.

Priced at £9.00 at the time of writing

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Umite Chef Kitchen Utensil Set, 15pcs Silicone Cooking Kitchen Utensils Set

Quality Option
Umite Chef Kitchen Utensil Set, 15pcs Silicone Cooking Kitchen Utensils Set

Umite Chef

Whilst not a sealant, this set is my top recommendation for protecting your investment. After spending thousands on a bespoke kitchen installation, the last thing you want is scratches on your new surfaces. High-quality silicone utensils like these are heat resistant and gentle on both your pans and your wooden or stone worktops.

Price£17.37 (at time of writing)
MaterialFood Grade Silicone & Stainless Steel
Heat ResistanceUp to 230℃ (446℉)
The Good
  • Protects expensive worktops and cookware from scratches
  • High heat resistance ensures they don't melt on pot rims
  • Hygienic one-piece design avoids food traps
The Bad
  • Black silicone can show water marks if not dried properly
  • Hand wash recommended for longevity of the wooden handles (if applicable) or steel shine

Installer Tip:

I always suggest clients switch to silicone tools immediately after a new install. Metal ladles dropped on an edge can chip even the hardest granite or dent solid oak. These soft-edged tools eliminate that risk completely.

Priced at £17.37 at the time of writing

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Unibond Bath And Kitchen White Sealant 104g

Problem-solving
Unibond Bath And Kitchen White Sealant 104g

Unibond

If you need to re-seal a small area behind a tap where a standard gun won't fit, or if you simply don't own a sealant gun, this compressed air pack is brilliant. It allows for a continuous bead without the hand strain or the physical bulk of a cartridge gun.

Price£7.21 (at time of writing)
FormatPressure Pack (No gun needed)
ApplicationTrigger activated
The Good
  • No additional tools or gun required
  • Compact size fits in tight spaces behind taps
  • Easy to control flow speed with the trigger
The Bad
  • Much more expensive per kg compared to cartridges
  • Smaller quantity - only suitable for small repairs, not full kitchens

Installer Tip:

The pressure in these cans is great, but ensure the surface is bone dry and grease-free before starting. Use masking tape on both sides of the gap to ensure a neat line, as the flow can be faster than you expect with a pressure pack.

Priced at £7.21 at the time of writing

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Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I replace kitchen silicone?
In my experience with York properties, kitchen silicone lasts about 3 to 5 years before it starts to discolour or perish. If you spot any black mould spots under the surface or if the sealant begins to peel away from the wall, it needs replacing immediately to prevent water damage to the joinery behind it.
Can I put new silicone over old silicone?
Absolutely not. This is a common mistake. New silicone will not adhere properly to cured silicone. You must strip the old sealant out completely, clean the area with methylated spirits to remove any grease or soap residue, and then apply the new bead. It is the only way to guarantee a watertight seal.
Why include silicone utensils in a sealant review?
As a joiner, my job isn't just to install your kitchen, but to ensure it lasts. I often see beautiful Accoya or Oak worktops ruined by scratches from metal tools. High-quality silicone utensils are arguably the best 'preventative maintenance' product you can buy for a new kitchen.
Do I need a professional to re-seal my kitchen?
For simple straight runs, many homeowners can manage DIY. However, if you are dealing with uneven walls common in older houses, or complex scribes around bespoke joinery, a professional hand ensures a neat, watertight finish. Our team at DR Joinery is happy to help with maintenance as well as installation.

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