How to Choose the Right Sealant: Complete Guide

With dozens of sealant types available, choosing the right one for your job can be confusing. This guide breaks down when to use each type.

Silicone Sealants

Sanitary Silicone

• Use for: Bathrooms, kitchens, wet areas
• Properties: Mould resistant, waterproof, flexible
• Colours: White, clear, various
• Cure time: 24-48 hours full cure

General Purpose Silicone

• Use for: Windows, glazing, general sealing
• Properties: Weatherproof, UV stable
• Not for: Paintable surfaces

High Temperature Silicone

• Use for: Ovens, flues, engine work
• Properties: Withstands 250°C+
• Colours: Usually red or black

Acrylic Sealants

• Use for: Interior gaps, cracks, decorating prep
• Properties: Paintable, easy to apply
• Not for: Wet areas or exterior use
• Best brands: Everbuild, Geocel

Polyurethane Sealants

• Use for: Construction joints, concrete, flooring
• Properties: Very strong, paintable, flexible
• Cure time: 24-72 hours
• Note: Can be messy, harder to tool

Hybrid Sealants (MS Polymer)

• Use for: Almost everything
• Properties: Paintable, flexible, strong adhesion
• Brands: Bostik, Soudal, CT1
• Why popular: Combines best of silicone and PU

Specialist Sealants

Fire Rated

• Required for fire compartmentation
• Check rating matches your spec
• Intumescent types expand in fire

Acoustic

• Sound-deadening properties
• Used in partition walls

Roofing

• UV stable, flexible at all temperatures
• Often bitumen-based for flat roofs

Quick Selection Guide

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Browse our full range of sealants and adhesives from leading brands including Everbuild, Soudal, and Geocel.