Weather silicone, also called silicone sealant, is a flexible, durable material used to seal gaps and joints in construction to keep out the elements and maintain a building's Structural Silicone integrity. This article explores the benefits, uses, types, and proper installation of weather silicone.
Weather silicone offers many benefits that make it popular with professionals and DIYers:
Excellent waterproofing - Forms a watertight barrier that resists rain, wind, snow, and temperature extremes to prevent leaks, drafts, and water damage.
Flexible and long-lasting - Stays flexible to accommodate building movement without cracking. Ensures a durable, weatherproof seal.
Bonds to many surfaces - Adheres strongly to various construction materials like brick, concrete, metal, glass, wood, and plastic. Suitable for many applications.
Easy to apply - Dispensed from caulking tubes for straightforward application by DIYers.
Resists mould and mildew - Contains fungicides to inhibit mould/mildew growth in damp areas. Helps maintain healthy indoor air.
Weather silicone can be used in many interior and exterior applications around the home:
Exterior sealing - Around windows and doors to prevent air infiltration and improve energy efficiency.
Roofing - Sealing gaps around chimneys, skylights, vents, and flashing to prevent leaks.
Siding - Filling gaps between panels and trim to maintain the weatherproof facade.
Bathrooms/kitchens - Sealing around sinks, tubs, showers, and counters to prevent water damage.
Other - Sealing electrical outlets, plumbing fixtures, appliances.
Neutral cure - Most common type, is cured by reacting with moisture. Compatible with most materials.
Acetoxy cure - Less expensive but has a stronger vinegar odour during curing. Not compatible with some materials.
With fungicides - Contains fungicides to inhibit mould/mildew in high-moisture areas.
Self-leveling - A thicker formulation that smooths easily for horizontal applications. For general use, choose a neutral cure silicone. Use silicone with fungicides in damp areas. Select self-leveling silicone for filling larger gaps.
For the best results, follow these general guidelines when putting in weather silicone sealant:
1. Get the surface ready: Make sure the areas you want to seal are clean, dry, and free of dirt, dust, grease, and anything loose. Some surfaces might need a silicone primer so the sealant sticks well.
2. Cut the nozzle: Cut the cartridge nozzle at an angle a bit wider than you want the bead to be.
3. Apply the silicone: Put the cartridge in a caulking gun and apply the silicone in a steady bead, pressing firmly so it makes good contact with both surfaces.
4. Tool the bead: Use a wetted smoothing tool to even out the bead and get a neat, professional look. Dip the tool in soapy water
5. Let it cure: Give the silicone plenty of time to cure fully before exposing it to water or traffic. Check the manufacturer's instructions for exact curing times, which can vary by product and weather.
Proper upkeep will help your weather silicone keep working for years. Here are some tips:
Inspect regularly: Check the sealed areas often for signs of wear, cracks, or loss of adhesion.
Clean periodically: Clean the silicone every so often with mild soap and a soft cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that can damage it.
Reapply as needed: If the sealant shows wear or failure, you may need to remove and re-apply fresh silicone.
While not essential for daily use, knowing some technical specs can help for certain jobs. Here's a quick overview:
Movement capability: How much movement it can handle without losing its seal. Important for places with expansion/contraction.
Elongation: How much it can stretch before breaking. A higher percentage means more flexibility.
Temperature range: The temp range where it maintains performance.
Skin time: How long until a thin film forms on the exposed surface.
Datasheet: Check the manufacturer's datasheet for detailed specs on a certain product.
Many weather silicone options are available. When choosing, consider:
Disclaimer: This post is informational only, not professional advice. Always consult a qualified contractor for product and installation recommendations.
Understanding about weather silicone permits you to viably seal and protect against the components, contributing to a more comfortable, energy-efficient, and durable home.