Sealants: Types and Uses of Sealants

Sealants are used to fill in the gaps or cracks between seams and joints. There are different types of sealant for different applications, from mould-resistant sealants for areas where water and moisture are present to chemical-resistant sealants. In this guide, we’ll take you through the different types and uses of sealants, explaining which to choose for various projects.

What Are Sealants Used For?

Sealants can be used for a number of different projects, but they typically have three functions. They are used primarily to:

• Fill the gap between two or more components
• Provide a protective and impermeable barrier
• Ensure the gap remains sealed and protected against water, air or other unwanted materials

From swimming pools to window frames, there are many areas where sealants are essential, both for indoor and outdoor applications. Sealants are typically applied with a sealant gun to provide a smooth and precise application.

Types of Sealants

Sealants are made from various materials, each offering different properties to suit the application. For example, acrylic sealants are great for large exterior applications, while water-based latex sealants are paintable and great for smaller gaps where the risk of movement is minimal. Because there are different types of sealants, there’s no one-size-fits-all and you need to choose the sealant which offers the best protection for the job at hand.

Acrylic Sealants

Acrylic sealants are UV stable and don’t shrink. They are better suited to outdoor applications, as they lack the flexibility that other sealants deliver. The life expectancy of this type of sealant is between five and ten years, and it can cure in anaerobic environments.

Butyl Sealants

Butyl sealants are often a preferred choice as they’re affordable and can adhere to a variety of substrates. They can be tricky to apply, as they have a stringy quality, but work on most types of surfaces. As with acrylic, this type of sealant lasts between five and ten years.

Polysulfide Sealants

An increasingly popular option, polysulfide sealants are able to retain elasticity even in low temperatures and they have minimal shrinkage. They can be used in a variety of projects, including outdoor applications and even underwater. While this type of sealant is typically more expensive, it offers a greater life expectancy of between 15 and 20 years.

Polyurethane Sealants

Polyurethane sealants are often a go-to solution as they’re flexible, offer great adhesion and are abrasion-resistant. These sealants can adhere to most substrates so they’re versatile and easy to apply. You don’t need to do much to prepare the surface for the sealant to stick.

Silicone Sealants

Silicone sealant can be pricey but it’s a popular choice for home repairs as it’s flexible, durable and can last anywhere from 10 to 20 years, depending on the product you choose.

There are different types of silicone sealant, including anti-mould, heat-resistant and food-safe sealants, so be sure to choose the right option for the project you’re working on. Silicone sealants are most commonly used in bathrooms for sealing sinks and bathtubs.

Water-Based Latex Sealants

Water-based sealants are easy and safe to apply, plus they can adhere to a wide variety of surfaces. They can be painted over easily, which makes them a popular choice for convenience, and they can be used in smaller gaps and voids. However, water-based latex sealants shouldn’t be used as a waterproofing method as it can be prone to shrinkage.

What To Consider When Choosing A Sealant

The first thing to consider when you’re deciding which sealant to choose is the longevity of the product and the flexibility it delivers. Some applications will require more strength and sturdiness while others will need strong adhesion and movement. Always check the manufacturer’s advice when it comes to the surfaces the sealant can be used on, as they will vary depending on the material and the substrate.

You may also want to check how easy the sealant is to apply, as applying it incorrectly could mean it will fail to seal properly. It’s always a good idea to invest in high-quality products, even if this means paying a bit more, as the sealant is more likely to last and work as expected. Lastly, consider the resistance the sealant offers, such as mould or chemical-resistance and whether this is required for the environment you’re using it in.

To find the best suited sealant for your project, check out our range of sealants and adhesives. Within this category, you will find everything you need, from DIY sealants right through to fire protection sealants.