Nowadays it is possible to find several models of sealants indicated for the construction segment — which ends up generating many doubts about which product to use in expansion joints, especially when we talk about silicone and polyurethane sealants. And to help you understand once and for all the differences between each of them, we’ve set the crucial details so you’ll never confuse them again. Polyurethane sealants, for example, do not support ultraviolet rays, do not withstand temperatures above 100 degrees Celsius, and have no chemical resistance —since it is organic. In all cases, the silicone sealant stands out more than polyurethane. Therefore, only silicone sealants have the necessary combinations to seal the panels on the façade, providing flexibility and physical resistance to the weather.
Why opt for silicone sealants?
Some of the advantages and features of opting for silicone sealants are:
- Silicone sealants are inorganic — which provide greater chemical resistance;
- Remain flexible in a wide temperature range;
- They are rarely affected by ultraviolet light and rain;
- Maintains grip even when stretched or long;
- Do not snag, crack or open like organic sealants (PU);
- They have life expectancy three times higher than organic materials (PU) used in the same application;
- Silicone sealants provide lower consumption compared to organic sealants (PU);
- After 100 days (2,400 hours) of UV exposure in accelerated weather tests and thermal stability, the urethane sealant deteriorates, while the silicone sealant remains unchanged.
Source: Dino
