Silicone Adhesive Sealants Buying Guide

If you work in an industrial setting or you do a lot of DIY repairs at home, you are most likely familiar with using a silicone adhesive sealant. It’s a strong sealant that is versatile in how and what it can be applied to. So, if you haven’t used one before or you want to learn more about it, here is what you need to know about the different types of silicone sealants out there and how to get the right one for your project.

Tips on How to Choose the Right Silicone Sealant

Silicone sealants have a different chemical backbone compared to other adhesives based on organic polymers, which characterises them with some special properties, such as the following.

• They remain highly elastic at low temperatures (-75°C)
• They have good temperature stability – up to 200°C continuous exposure and up to 300°C for short periods
• They have excellent resistance to moisture and weathering

But, unlike some adhesives, silicone sealants must cure. Curing means letting the silicone dry, and although it’s not a necessarily difficult process, it requires patience. It may take as little as 24 hours to cure or up to several days if the sealant is especially thick. However, the reliability and stability of a cured silicone seal are particularly impressive.

One of the most common uses for silicone adhesives is for basic repairs around the house and in many construction jobs. You can get a silicone adhesive sealant and use it to caulk cracks, repair areas around sinks, and other areas where water is frequently found. You can also bind surfaces such as plastic, metal and glass together. Silicone is commonly used in electronic devices, appliances and automobiles as well, thanks to its adhesive properties when temperatures are high.

Since there are many different types of silicone sealants, finding the right one for your project can be a daunting task. While all of them have the same basic adhesive properties, some are designed for specific applications, so knowing what you will be using the silicone sealant for can make it easier to determine if you need a specialised one.

Silicone sealants come in a range of different colours, including black, grey, white and clear. Typically, they come in a tube or cartridge, and most of them have a nozzle for precise bead application. There are squeeze tubes that are used for application by hand or rigid tubes for use with a sealant gun.

Silicone sealants mainly fall into two categories – neutral and acid cure variants. Acid cure sealants, also referred to as acetoxy sealants, are ideal for non-porous surfaces like glass and glazed tiles. On the other hand, you may want to stick to neutral cure silicone when working with wood or scratchable metals and plastics, as the acidic variants can cause damage or corrosion when applied directly to less suitable materials.

Most acetoxy sealants are high modulus – they tend to cure faster and harder, and emit a slight vinegary smell as they cure. Most neutral cure varieties, on the other hand, are low modulus, with very little odour and a slightly slower curing process, resulting in a more flexible and elastic seal. The majority of silicone sealant adhesives are multipurpose. This means that they can be used in a wide variety of general applications and are suitable for creating bonds with different surface materials.

Tips on How to Use a Silicone Sealant

Silicone sealants are easy to apply and they allow you to complete projects in the workplace and at home with confidence. To ensure you make full use of silicone adhesive sealants, here are a few tips that might help.

Clean the Surface

If there is any oil, grime, grease or other residues on the surfaces you are working with, you will most probably experience a difficult time forming a solid bond. That’s why it’s important to make sure you clean the surface thoroughly before you start the job and let it dry before proceeding with your work.

Use a Primer Whenever You Can

Primers are valuable because they help sealants adhere to the surface you’re working with. Some solvent-based primers can be applied with a brush or cloth to enhance your bond. Though primers may have a short shelf life, they help improve adhesion.

Consider the Sealant’s Shelf Life

The majority of sealants have a short shelf life, especially if kept in hot and humid conditions. Keeping them in the refrigerator can help extend their days and keeping nozzles attached can also help them cure slowly. That being said, refrain from opening the tubes until you’re about to use them.

Prepare Your Working Area

Choose a work area that is well ventilated, especially if you are working with an adhesive that releases an odour. Bear in mind that other people or pets may come in touch with the area you are working in, so you need to make sure the silicone sealant is kept safely away from children and animals.

Check the Expiration Date of the Product

Before buying your silicon sealant, make sure to check the expiration date. It is a small, but important detail that is easily overlooked. A silicone sealant changes if it’s past its shelf life. It will take a longer time to dry and it won’t be as strong and efficient.