Silicone sealant stops leaks
Silicone sealant offers excellent moisture protection as well as adhesion. It’s an indispensable part of many DIY projects. Get all the details here.
Silicone sealant: What makes it different from other sealants?
Silicone is a versatile polymer created by heating a large volume of silica sand to temperatures as high as 1800 °C. The result is pure, isolated silicone, which is allowed to cool and then is ground into a fine powder. This powder is combined with methyl chloride and heated once again. A complex distillation process breaks the material down into the various components. From there, silicone is polymerised using a variety of methods.
Silicone sealant offers super moisture resistance, mould resistance, and adhesive qualities, making it an excellent choice for areas that are in frequent contact with water. It is an excellent insulating material. It also has a pleasing aesthetic finish and is available in a variety of colours.
While latex sealants offer some of the same qualities, 100% silicone sealant is generally more resistant to extremes of temperature, weather, chemicals, and detergents. It stays flexible to a greater degree than most other sealants and resists cracking.
Silicone sealant uses around the home
Silicone sealer is the preferred material for many construction, maintenance, and repair projects around the home. Its qualities make it well suited for certain applications.
It is often used around bathtubs and sinks because of its resistance to moisture, mould, and dirt. It forms a tight bond to tile, tub surrounds, backsplashes, and other surfaces, preventing water damage to the underlying materials. It also stands up well to cleaning products and soaps.
Another very common use of silicone sealant is around doors and windows. Not only does it help seal out the weather, but it is also an excellent insulating material, preventing drafts and dampness from entering past the trim. Its UV stability and ability to withstand temperature extremes make it a great choice for exterior applications. It will bond well to brick, stone, siding, and many other construction materials.
These same benefits make silicone sealant a great choice for sealing around holes where wires or pipes enter a wall. It’s also ideal for sealing cracks in the foundation, or other concrete and masonry surfaces.
Applying silicone sealant like a pro
Silicone sealant is applied in a similar fashion to other sealants but there are a few differences to keep in mind. Follow these steps for a successful job:
- Make sure the area to be sealed is clean and free of dust, grease, or other contaminants.
- Apply a bead of the silicone sealant to the gap.
- Silicone sealant has a gel-like consistency and has a different feel than latex sealant. Smooth the bead of silicone with a silicone sealant tool or damp finger.
- Silicone adhesives must cure before use. This can take 24 hours or longer. Consult the packaging for specifics.
Follow these steps for quick clean up after applying silicone sealer. As the name implies, silicone adhesive sealant acts like a glue, so try to remove the excess from your fingers and tools before it dries. (Wearing plastic gloves is recommended!) Try to scrape or wipe away as much as possible, using a paper towel or old rag. Try acetone or mineral spirits to remove the remaining residue, then wash with soap and water.
Choosing the best silicone sealant
While silicone sealant is available at many hardware stores and even retail stores, not all are of the same quality. The best silicone sealants are produced by companies that specialise in adhesives, sealants, and glues.
Loctite is a world leader in this field. We recommend Loctite Clear Silicone Waterproof Sealant for most applications that call for an excellent silicone sealant. This multi-purpose adhesive is ideal for metal, glass, tile, porcelain, and other surfaces. It holds up indoors or outdoors and can even stand up to exposure to salt water. It stays flexible for a long-lasting bond.
If you just want to refresh the existing sealant around a tub, sink, or backsplash, try Loctite Re-New. Damaged, mouldy, and cracked sealants in your bathroom or kitchen greatly detract from the appearance. Re-New allows you to apply new silicone sealant right over the top of the old layer without removing it, and it’s easy to apply thanks to its integrated smoothing tool. It is highly mould resistant and ready to use in just six hours.
With the right silicone sealant, anyone can achieve professional results!