Not all silicone sealants are the same. Learn about their chemistries and basic cure characteristics to help select the right product for your project.
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.
Download our Sealant Selector Guide for insight into which products may best match your project, including a range of silicone sealants, custom color options, solutions for both commercial and residential window markets, as well as compatible accessories and primers.