A Guide To Applying Sealant

Well-applied sealant perfectly finishes off a room. It makes all your hard work decorating and styling entirely worth it. Thankfully, sealant has one of the easiest and quickest application processes. And, if you have a few tricks up your sleeves from those who have done it a million times over, you can confidently achieve a finish that looks just as smart as the professionals. In this guide, our experts here at Sealant & Tools Direct walk you through our step-by-step guide and let you in on some insider knowledge too.

What Is Sealant?

Sealant is a construction product used to create a mechanical seal within gaps and small cavities. Most types available on the market are manufactured from an elastomeric compound blended together with a filling product. When applied, it produces a barrier against elements including liquids, fumes and other gases. Within the building industry, it is also sometimes referred to as ‘caulking’, however, caulk products tend to have less elasticity than sealants when dry. This is largely why sealant products are used in environments where heat or moisture content may cause expansion and/or contraction.

What Are the Different Types?

Sealant is a versatile product that can be used for a multitude of purposes. And, for this reason, there are a number of types available.

Silicone

Silicone sealant is one of the most popular sealant options on the market. It has brilliant thermal resistance, good elasticity and finds it easy to bond with a variety of different surfaces. They are highly resilient and out-perform many other types with the durability to last up to several decades. Silicone sealant is also one of the options that can be used both indoors and outdoors.

Acrylic

These synthetic and water-based sealants follow shortly behind silicone in popularity. They are a more economical option that is largely used indoors, however, there are some external versions available on the market. Acrylic sealants don’t offer the same extended lifespan that silicone ones do but the main difference is that many options are paintable or stainable to match the surrounding area.

Polyurethane

Polyurethane sealants are the best option when working with wood because they dry hard. However, this does make the application more challenging. The main difference between these and silicone sealants is at a chemical level, with silicone being an inorganic material. Polyurethane blends are used for external projects just as rainwater pipe repair, sealing aluminium pipes and largely within the automotive industry.

Water-based Latex

Also known as latex caulk, water-based latex sealants offer a range of benefits. They release very little fumes or unsightly odours during the application, can be painted on top of and are easy to apply. In homes, these products are used to seal windows and door frames.

Butyl

These rubber-based silicones don’t set, meaning they have a chewy and sticky consistency for their entire lifespan. This allows them to stick to a multitude of surfaces and still achieve a waterproof seal, in environments where a semi-permanent solution is needed. You’ll find these products used largely in caravans/mobile homes, throughout the automotive industry and for mechanical uses.

Polyisobutylene

Another rubber-based sealant, polyisobutylene, has similar properties to polyurethane. They are used as a primary seal and are used to prevent the ingress of moisture. They can also be used to prevent energy loss when used with insulated glass.

Applying the Sealant

Once you have established the right type of sealant for your project, it's time to move on to the application process. As we mentioned above, it is incredibly easy to do this - especially in domestic settings such as bathrooms and kitchens.

What Equipment Do You Need?

To get the best results from your sealant, you will need minimal equipment. Before you get started, collect together:

  • A sealant gun.
  • Your cartridge of chosen sealant.
  • Masking tape.
  • A triangular scraper.
  • A sharp hobby knife.
  • Rubber gloves.

Step-by-step Application Process

We spoke to the experts in our team here at Sealant & Tools Direct to get their recommended step-by-step process for applying sealant.

  1. Identify whether you need a primer coat
  2. Some sealants need to be partnered with a primer to help them achieve a good bond with the substrate material. Speaking to a specialist will help you to identify whether you need one to achieve a good finish. Tip: Most silicone-based sealants can adhere well to different surfaces and don’t need to be used with a primer.

  1. Clean the surface
  2. To get the best result, it’s important to clean and prepare the surface before application. Wipe away all dirt, dust and debris. If you notice any loose material, make sure it’s removed and use a brush or a smaller vacuum head to make sure you get everything off. Any existing sealant or residue will need to be removed with a spirit-based cleanser to leave a clean, smooth surface behind.

  1. Mask up
  2. Masking tape is the best way to achieve a straight and professional line. Apply the tape to either side of the line you want to achieve. Push down and ensure it has stuck firm to the surface to get the best results. Tip: Remember to remove the masking tape before the sealant dries for the best results.

  1. Prepare the sealant cartridge
  2. Using the sharp knife, you will need to cut the seal off of your cartridge. Then, turn the cartridge over and cut the applicator tip at a 30-45°C angle. Make sure to cut the opening so that it measures between 1 and 2mm thicker than the seal line you want to create. Tip: use very sharp scissors to make this cut - this will ensure you get the smartest and most accurate finish.

  1. Using the cartridge gun for application
  2. Load up your cartridge gun. Position it at a 40 - 45°C angle from the seal you’re looking to make. Apply consistent and even pressure to the trigger and pull the gun towards you during application. Release the lever or press the button at the back of the gun once you get to the end to immediately stop the flow. Tip: Work at a mid-level speed to get the best results. If you go too slowly, you will create a bumpy and uneven surface. If you move too quickly, the sealant won’t lay properly and you won’t achieve a solid seal along the gap/cavity.

  1. Finish the seal
  2. Once you come to the end of your line, wet your finger with clean water and smooth it along the seam. This allows you to smooth out your finish and get that professional look you’re going for. Tip: Use soapy water to prevent the sealant from sticking to your fingers.

  1. Wipe away the unwanted sealant and tidy up your application

Here at Sealant & Tools Direct, we stock a wide range of sealant products in our online store. With options for roofs, sanitary ware and swimming pools, you’ll find the ideal solution for creating water-tight and professional seals. If you have any questions, get in contact with our team here today for more advice.