What should you consider when choosing a Sealant
Choosing the right sealant is imperative. Applying the wrong sealant could cause problems further down the line, which could be an expensive and time-consuming mistake. When selecting the right sealant for your project, you should consider certain criteria, like whether the sealant is compatible with the materials you’re working with, the joint design, and the expected movement that’s needed.
Illbruck have a diverse collection of sealants that offer a reliable solution for various construction and renovation needs, ensuring durability and lasting performance. Acrylic, Hybrid, and Silicone sealants each have distinct purposes and differ significantly because of their unique features. For instance, low modulus sealants are commonly applied to seal external façade expansion joints, which require greater movement. In contrast, internal joints are normally sealed with high modulus silicone, such as those used in bathrooms, and their make-up usually contain fungicides which reduce mould growth in moisture prone environments.
Understanding which type of sealant should be used is imperative. Below, the different types are listed including product spotlights which highlight products from the Illbruck range.
Hybrid sealants are solvent-free and combine the advantages of silicone and polyurethane, delivering a water-resistant seal with high movement capability. They are suitable for both internal and external joints, providing UV resistance, and can be applied to various substrates, often without the need for primer. Discover the full advantages of the illbruck hybrid technology here.
- SP525 Frame and façade Sealant – Typical applications include expansion joints in concrete and brick facades, rainscreens and curtain walling, as well as around doors and windows.
- SP510 Low Mod Construction Sealant and Adhesive - Ideal for long term elastic sealing of window and door perimeter joints and movement joints between construction components. It is compatible with metals and most construction materials.
- SP540 Joint Floor Sealant - An elastic hybrid sealant for floor joints in pedestrian walkways, warehouses, parking areas. SP540 can be used in both indoor and outdoor applications.
Silicone sealant is flexible and offers versatility due to the high UV resistance and durability
- FA880 Premium Natural Stone Silicone Matt – Used for application onto natural stone and common substrates, guaranteed against migratory staining and with a high movement accommodation factor of 50% to British standards. Explore in more detail here.
- FS125 Frame and Façade silicone - Comes in a range of colours, typically used in perimeter joint sealing applications around windows and doors.
- GS123 Bathroom Sealant - A sanitary grade, acetoxy silicone sealant with excellent resistance to mould and mildew. Can be used in bathrooms, kitchens and similar applications. Gives good working time.
- GS360 Multi-Purpose Silicone – Suitable for a wide range of sealing applications internal and external as it bonds to many common construction materials.
Acrylic sealant is water-based and dries to a hard, paintable finish, intended for internal specialist uses.
- LD410 Duct Sealant – The intended use is for permanent sealing of low movement joints in low, medium and high pressure ductwork installations.
- LD730 Acrylic Sealant – A mould-resistant acrylic sealant used for filling in cracks and gaps around door and window frames, penetrations, damaged plaster and other wall and ceiling surfaces.
Summary
Selecting the right sealant is crucial for the success and longevity of your project. By understanding the specific characteristics and applications of Acrylic, Hybrid, and Silicone sealants, you can make informed decisions that prevent costly mistakes.
Whether you need a low modulus sealant with long term durability for facade expansion joints or a sealant for internal areas with mould and mildew resistance, illbruck offers a range of products tailored to meet your needs.
Explore the product finder to view the extensive illbruck portfolio and apply the filters to identify the best fit for your project. Once you have selected an appropriate product, you can gain access to an array of information and technical downloads to support your project and application of the sealant.
