Silicone Sealant Creates An Effective Seal Against Moisture

Aug 25
08:34

2013

Jenifer Whitmire

Jenifer Whitmire

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Silicone sealant is a rubbery, man-made substance used to create seals. It is non-toxic, water proof, and flexible and is used in clothes, cooking ite...

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Silicone sealant is a rubbery,Silicone Sealant Creates An Effective Seal Against Moisture Articles man-made substance used to create seals. It is non-toxic, water proof, and flexible and is used in clothes, cooking items, and electronic equipment. In fact, many people use it instead of adhesive and makes a better barrier than caulking. It also lasts for many years and is easy to clean if it gets dirty.

Silicone is a synthetic substance that is very similar to rubber. It has the ability to form watertight seal, has low toxicity, and, while it does not stick well, it does adhere to glass and metals when properly prepared. There are no significant safety or health problems with this substance and is cleared for use in nearly every industry.

This product is resistant to temperatures from -55 degrees F up to 300 degrees F. Once the product has been applied it creates a tough rubbery seal that adheres to glass, tile, and metal. It also cures within about 24 hours but you should wait around a week before you consider it permanent. The rubber seal remains flexible; it is strong, difficult to tear, and resists heat and moisture. It typically lasts years without having to be replaced.

Clothing and construction industries rely on sealants. The electronics industry also uses it for things like protecting computer chips and wires. It is similar to an adhesive but is better as a filler and for closing holes than for gluing items. At the same time, the product is better than caulk and putty because of the moisture proof barrier it creates.

Some surfaces are more difficult to seal than others, especially coated glass or metal. Generally experts recommend that you test the product before starting your project. Also, it does not wash off easily so make sure your job is correct before it begins to cure. In fact, the product is so strong that once it has completely dried is even safe to power wash your project.

If the product gets into your eyes it could cause serious problems; if this happens then flush your eyes completely. Since it is a chemical, you should treat it with care though. Store it in a dry place where children cannot access it. If ingested make sure to call a doctor for treatment. Once dried, this product is hard to remove so remember this when applying it.

If you are working on a home project then you can get it in a cartridge that has an easy application nozzle. If the job is larger, then you may need a drum. It comes in many different forms that are suitable for any project; gasketing, lubricating grease, rubber, and even free flowing. The surface of the item you are applying it to needs to be prepared, especially glass, and should be free of dust or fingerprints in order to adhere properly.

If you need to create a metal or glass joint then silicone sealant works well. It also comes in drums, tubes, and cartridges depending on the size of the job. The surface needs to be prepared for application. It can be used in almost any project where you need a tight, water resistant seal.

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