When it comes to DIY tasks, every handyman will agree that tools are half the battle. Whether it’s refurbishing hardwood, unclogging drains, or fixing a busted door, having the necessary equipment simply makes things a lot easier. However, choosing the right materials for the job can be tricky since there are different factors to note.
If you’re planning to fix a leak in your home, you may be wondering which seal will effectively solve your dilemma. Given that there are many options to choose from, you need to improve your knowledge as a consumer.
Before we dive into the specifics, let’s begin by defining what a sealant is.
What is a Sealant?
Sealants are chemical products that are designed to close any unwanted gaps, cracks, and openings in or between objects. Thanks to their ability to stop the seepage and bond components, they’re heavily used in a wide range of industrial applications. In terms of home repairs and improvements, sealants are commonly used to seal leaks in bathrooms, kitchens, and roofs.
As you assess your situation, remember sealant quality is of utmost importance. Not all products in your local hardware store have adhesive properties or can last in harsh environments, so purchasing without care can be a waste of money. Keeping this point in mind, you should look at industrial sealants for the best results.
Industrial sealants are stronger compared to those intended for DIY purposes. Since they can withstand aggressive chemicals and extreme temperatures, they can last longer and give you more value down the line. Finding the best sealant will highly depend on your requirements, so you should know what each kind specializes in.
Types of Industrial Sealants
To help you out, this guide will give you a brief rundown of the most popular types of sealants.
1. Silicone
Silicone sealants are the most commonly used for home applications. They come in two forms: neutral cure and acetoxy. Neutral cure silicone offers more resistance to chemicals but has a slower cure time and is more expensive than acetoxy. On the other hand, acetoxy seals are cheaper and cure quickly but do not react well with certain acids.
Both types can last for as long as 20 years, can withstand minimal movement, and are compatible with different surfaces. They can cure at room temperature, and their flexible property makes them perfect for washroom repairs and electrical sealing.
If you’re sealing a leak, it’s best to go with a neutral cure for its toughness. If you want to close electric sockets, acetoxy can give you a quick fix.
2. Epoxy
Epoxy sealants are known for their strong adhesive property. This type of seal is highly resistant to strong chemicals, is non-conductive, and can fare exceptionally well against the environment. Due to its ability to improve a structure’s integrity, it’s the go-to sealant for big construction projects.
If the leak on your roof is getting worse, then going for an epoxy sealant is a no-brainer. Most epoxy products can cure at room temperature, but there are cases where they need to be cured through thermal exposure. When shopping, consult with your provider for clarity.
3. Phenolic sealant
Phenolic seals offer strong endurance against high temperatures. It’s the only sealant that comes in liquid, film, and powder form, and all forms work just as well. If you need to repair fixtures that are exposed to erratic temperatures or seal appliances that operate in high heat (e.g., ovens), phenolic sealants are the way to go.
4. Acrylic sealant
Are you planning to install a new window frame? Then you might want to get an acrylic sealant. This type can withstand high volumes of UV exposure, making it the ideal choice for maintaining your home’s exterior.
While it may lack flexibility, it’s best used for external applications since they’re not prone to shrinkage. They can cure up without the intervention of oxygen and can last for as long as five to 10 years when applied correctly.
5. Polymers (polyesters, polyamide, polysulfide, etc.)
Just like silicone, polymer sealants have various applications. Aside from being highly resistant to temperatures and compatible with different materials, these seals can withstand pressure made by repetitive movements. When it comes to industrial uses, polymer sealants can seal big structures such as bridge joints.
If you have sliding doors and windows that need to be sealed, polymer sealants are your best bet. However, do keep in mind that this sealant can take a while to cure. Before you apply it to your fixtures, you need to ensure that you can leave them untouched.
Tips on Choosing the Right Industrial Sealant for the Job
It’s clear by now that each type of sealant is designed for a specific function. Before you start canvassing for products, assessing your situation in detail will allow you to make the best purchase possible. Take note of the tips below to make your shopping experience a lot easier.
1. Get a sealant that is within your application’s temperature range.
For starters, you should take note of your application’s temperature range. Your sealant should be strong enough to withstand sudden temperature changes. Failure to do so will compromise its performance and pave the way for other hazards.
2. Do you need weather/water resistance?
Constant exposure to UV rays and weather can compromise your sealant over time. If you’re planning to secure a window or close a leak on your roof, you’ll need to get a seal resistant to the elements. Other than shutting down holes, going for weatherproof seals such as epoxy can also prevent chemical reactions (e.g., rust) from occurring.
3. Consider a sealant’s electrical properties.
Since sealants can be made of various materials, each type will have a unique reaction when exposed to a particular substance. It’s important to note that some don’t perform too well with electricity. If you’re handling fuse boxes and wires, it’s best to go for a non-conductive type such as silicone.
4. Is your application static or dynamic?
As previously mentioned, not all sealants are built to withstand movement. If you’re fixing an appliance or anything that’s naturally designed to make repetitive motions, then going for polymer-based instead of acrylic will be a much better choice.
5. Take note of surface compatibility.
The performance of your sealant will greatly depend on the material it’s applied to. Porous surfaces such as wood are best paired with a thick and viscous sealant such as silicone or polymer. In case you’re working with concrete and ceramics, epoxy is best due to its toughness.
Choosing The Right Sealant
It’s safe to say that wear and tear is every homeowner’s worst enemy. Since appliances and fixtures in your household will naturally degrade over time, taking a proactive approach to maintenance is a must. As you conduct minor repairs and improvements, choosing the right materials will be essential to your success. Now that you’re aware of the different sealant types, unexpected failures can be kept at bay.
Looking for top-quality adhesives and sealants? You’ve come to the right place! As a premier supplier of industrial and engineering components, Simplex will gladly provide everything that you need. Visit our shop today to get started!
