The spout assembly should have its own seal. Around the shower head arm, sealing really shouldn't be necessary.

Regardless, the install instructions should contain the answer.

Do I need to seal around the edge of the escutcheon to keep water from leaking in and getting behind the tile? Sorry to keep asking questions, but my husband is making a career of worrying about stuff like this and keeps sending me to ask HIS questions.

I like to pack behind the spout with plumber's putty for extra security. If I have forgotten to so do, and the spout is already installed, I would pack a thick ring around the pipe from the backside (via access panel).

Seal outer edge with a small bead of silicone, leaving the bottom open to let any water out. Mask it first with tape, apply bead, smooth with a wet finger, remove tape, wet finger again and smooth gently one more time. Also, a small squeeze tube is better and easier than a tube that requires a caulk gun.

I wouldn't worry about the shower spout, but you can pack some putty behind the trim ring (escutcheon) if you like.

This post was edited by homebound on Sat, Nov 9, 13 at 23:38