For over 40 years, silicone sealants have been used extensively in the construction market for applications requiring enhanced durability and strength compared to its predecessors, the organic-based sealants such as polyurethanes and polysulfides.
But not all silicone sealants are the same, so understanding their chemistries and basic cure characteristics is critical to selecting the right product for your next construction project.
The silicone sealant’s unique polymer structure allows them to withstand movement, high temperatures and ultraviolent light (UV) exposure, making them an ideal solution for outdoor applications, such as curtainwalls, window perimeters and even highways.
Silicone sealants are defined by their cure mechanism, divided into acid and neutral cure categories.
Silicones can also be broken down into one- and two-part categories, which have their own cure processes to take into consideration.
You may find yourself with any of these silicone sealant types, depending on your application. But select the wrong one, and there could be serious compatibility issues, costing you significant time and money.
If you are planning to use a sealant in your next project, you need to make sure you pick the best one for the job.
A joint is where two different materials meet. A joint sealant is a substance used to seal or close the gap between these two materials. Its purpose is to prevent fluids, air, and other substances from getting through the gap while also allowing for limited movement. Joint sealants have several applications, including commonly in construction and building design.
Because a joint is a vulnerable part of a structure, the sealant for the joint needs to be the right product for the job or the consequences could be serious. With so many options, it can be hard to know here to start, but our guide to picking the correct joint sealant can help you make the right choice for your needs.
There are so many different types of joint sealants with differentapplications. Before you start thinking about whichjoint sealer to use, you first want to have a clear understanding of what you need from your sealant. When choosing a joint sealant, it is important to consider the following:
Only after you have answered these questions can you start to get a better picture of which joint sealant you need.
After you have all the details on the requirements of the job, the next step to choosing the right product is to determine the joint sealant material that will work best. There are several different typesof sealants available with different properties and pros and cons.
Once you have narrowed down your joint sealant glue selection to one or two materials, the next step is to think about your budget. While an inexpensive joint sealant may be enticing, it may not hold up as well and could fail over time if it is the wrong product for the job. On the other hand, the most expensive choice may not be feasible with your budget.
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Once you have taken into account these different considerations, you should be much closer to finding the right joint sealant for your needs.
Let’s try an example. You need a stainless-steel pipe thread sealant for a joint that will be inside a pneumatic drill.
Step 1:Consider the requirements of the job.
You conclude that the sealant needs to work in exterior settings and be resistant to UV.It will be subject to large amounts of movement.The seal must also be durable and flexible.
Step 2: Review the types of sealants.
From the requirements, it seems clear you will need a high-performingthread sealant.Because of the heavy movement, your choices are limited to either silicone or PU sealant.
Step 3: Think about your budget.
PU sealants tend to be more expensive, and you just don’t think you have the budget for it. You decide to go for a silicone option that is marketed as being especially resistant to vibration.
If you have gone through these steps to pick a joint sealant but are still unsure of what to choose, that is okay. We want to help. Our customer service representatives are sealant experts who are happy to guide you to the right sealant solution for your job and budget. Give us a call at (855) 437- or fill out acontact form today.
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