Seal out weather, live better

Waterproof sealant: Your home’s defence against moisture

Water and moist air entering your home can cause costly damage. Luckily, waterproof sealant is not only your best defence, but it’s easy to do. Read on and we’ll show you how.

Where to use waterproof silicone sealant

When water ends up where it shouldn’t, you risk mould, rotted wood, loosening tiles, and many other problems. Use waterproof sealant anywhere water, moisture, or damp air can enter your home or get into walls or floors.

Silicone sealant is the most common choice to protect against moisture because it’s waterproof and adheres strong. It also remains flexible, so it holds up well to vibration and the expansion or contraction of materials as temperatures change.

Sealing around door and window frames both inside and out is essential to their longevity, as is sealing around sinks and faucets in the kitchen and bathroom. The rim of the bathtub - where water can collect - is also important. You’ll also want to make sure water isn’t getting behind the tiles or shower insert.

As you look around the home, you’ll no doubt find other places to use waterproof sealer. Check anywhere wires or pipes enter the home and seal up any gaps or cracks that you find. Inspect siding, soffits, and the roof from time to time and seal up any possible entry points. This simple maintenance can save you thousands in repairs later.

How to apply waterproof sealant

Here are a few tips to ensure your sealing job is a success:

  1. Remove any old sealant in the area you’re going to seal and wipe it down with a damp cloth. Use mineral spirits to wipe away any grease or sticky residue.
  2. Cut the tip of the tube of waterproof sealant so that it dispenses a bead of the desired width.
  3. Apply the waterproof silicone sealant with even pressure on the trigger if using a caulk gun, or on the tube itself if using a squeeze tube. Try to put down a uniform bead of sealant.
  4. Smooth out the bead and seal it to the surrounding materials with a caulking tool (recommended) or a damp finger.
  5. Clean up any excess waterproof sealant immediately with a damp cloth. If the sealant has dried, use acetone or nail polish remover to soften it up for easy removal.
  6. Allow the silicone to fully dry before normal use.

 

If the gap you’re trying to fill is too large for sealant alone, try placing a backing rod into the crack or seam and sealing over it. A backing rod is a flexible foam strip that fits snugly into seams.

Choosing the best waterproof silicone sealant

With so many products on the market, you’ll want to be selective in choosing a waterproof sealer. We recommend sticking with a trusted name brand with a proven record of quality.

Try Loctite Clear Silicone Waterproof Sealant. This versatile adhesive sealant creates a strong, protective seal and bonds to metal, glass, rubber, tile, porcelain, and more. It can be used indoors and out, won’t crack or peel, and stays flexible for years of use. It’s great for sealing windows, bathroom fixtures, door frames, and appliances.