A: The main differences in the three types of sealants are the ingredients used in the diluents. Diluents are the liquid ingredients in a sealant that are added to make products more fluid and easier to apply. When the diluents evaporate, or dry, an elastic, adhesive paste is left. This is your sealant.
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2019-12-02 12:00:00 AM
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between water, solvent and chemical-based sealants?
Q: What is the difference between water, solvent and chemical-based sealants?
Different Properties
Sealant Types
The differences between sealant types include:
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drying time
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odour
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ability to be applied to moist surfaces
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ease of application
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length of time for product storage
Properties
Water-based Sealants
Water-based sealants contain water diluents in the product composition. They are also referred to as latex sealants or caulk.
Water-based sealants are easy to use, affordable and paintable.
They can be applied indoors and outdoors to a wide range of surfaces, including wood, ceramics, gypsum, masonry and glass. They can also be applied to damp surfaces.
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Properties
Solvent-based Sealants
Solvent-based sealants utilize solvents as diluents. These solvents may include mineral spirits, toluene or xylene.
They are mainly used outdoors and are best used with masonry, wood, bare metal and galvanized steel.
Certain Mulco® solvent-based sealants have the benefit of being applicable to damp surfaces.
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Properties
Chemical-based Sealants
Chemical-based sealants are composed of silicone, polyurethane or polysulphur diluents. They are also called silicone sealants.
Chemical-based sealants must be applied to dry surfaces.
They are best utilized when sealing:
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glass
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fiberglass
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bare metal
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ceramics
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wood
Chemical-based sealants are preferred for their increased flexibility, adhesion to a wide range of substrates and ability to endure extreme temperatures.
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