Sealants: The Unsung Heros of Home Improvement

Posted by Steven on 1/14/2025 12:29:23 PM

Sealants are unsung heroes in home improvement, keeping gaps, cracks, and joints sealed tight to prevent drafts, water damage, and even fire. With so many options available, choosing the right one for your project can be difficult. Fear not! We've broken down the 6 most common types of sealants to help you pick the best for your needs.

When is Sealant Used?

Installing windows and doors is one of the most popular uses for caulks and sealants. Installers put sealants around rough openings to create an airtight seal that keeps the outside elements out of the house or structure. Other reasons to use sealant include window glazing, installing kitchen or bathroom tiles, and fixing cracks in concrete walls and sidewalks. Sealants can fill small gaps to keep air, water, and insects out.

Different Types of Sealants

Think the sealant choice doesn’t matter? Think again! Different sealants are made from materials, which means they are designed for different purposes. Choose your sealant based on the surface, environment, and desired result. No single sealant is always the best choice. Let's learn the different sealants together.

Water-based Latex Sealants - The Go to Sealant

Water-based (latex) sealants have grown in popularity because they are easy to apply and clean, and they dry quickly. Another benefit water-based sealants offer is they are paintable. Latex sealants tend to shrink when they dry so they are not the best choice for wet or exterior applications.

Acrylic Sealants - The Paintable Option

Like latex, acrylic sealants are paintable but do not shrink as much. They are much better for exterior projects like windows, doors, and other weather-exposed repairs. The biggest downside is they lack flexibility which makes them harder to apply. Movement over time may cause cracking.

Polysulfide Sealants - Long Lasting Friend

Polysulfide sealants are some of the highest-quality sealants on the market. They can be applied underwater and remain flexible throughout their service life. Repairs with polysulfide sealants will last up to 20 years. The only downside is they tend to be expensive and they are not as paintable.

Butyl Sealants - The Weather Warrior

Butyl sealants adhere well to many surfaces and are inexpensive. Application may be difficult due to the stringy consistency, and they do not accommodate shearing movement. They are also flexible, provide a long service life, and resist UV rays, moisture, and aging. They also don't accept paint well.

Silicone Sealants - A Flexible Friend

Silicone sealants are a common but expensive sealant type for repairs. Silicone is flexible and water-resistant. These sealants stick to most materials and are less likely to shrink. Various types of silicone sealants are available, including anti-mold silicones, heat-resistant sealants, and food-safe solutions.

Polyurethane Sealants - The Heavy-Duty Hero

Polyurethane sealants offer flexibility, toughness, and strong adherence to most surfaces. They also seal joints which prevent fluids from passing through. Polyurethane sealants are normally not paintable but can be found in colors like white, gray, and black.

What to Consider When Choosing a Sealant

There are some factors to consider when purchasing sealant. Find out what sealant adheres to the surface you are working on the best. Different materials will have a higher lifespan and durability. Research how difficult it is to apply the sealant, some are flexible while others allow little to no movement.

It may be tempting to purchase the cheapest option, just be warned that the cheap option is rarely the best. Make sure your project can hold up with a lower-quality sealant. Consider if your sealant is resistant to the environment (sunlight, water, etc). Take note of the VOC content (volatile organic compound) to see if safety measures need to be taken for the toxicity. Polysulfide sealants have a higher VOC content.