While all sealants will perform well with the right application, most users seek the best. In recent times, several manufacturers have reduced their production of polysulphide sealant varieties due to several reasons, which include:
- Hazardous formulation: The production of polysulphide sealant is more hazardous than the alternatives. The sealant contains volatile organic compounds (VOC); hence, using them requires extra safety measures. It has gotten to a point where the cons surpass the benefits.
- Poorer UV (Ultraviolet): Polysulphide sealants have poorer ultraviolet ray resistance compared with silicones and urethane.
- It’s not as effective as the alternatives: A top quality hybrid polymer, ms polymer, or polyurethane won’t only match, but will even have a quicker cure time and perform better than a polysulphide sealant.
- Poorer recovery during high cyclic movements than the alternatives.
- High polysulphide sealant price: Polysulphide sealants are more expensive than the alternatives.
- Polysulphide joint sealants require primers for a porous substrate.
- You can’t paint them as paint won’t adhere to the sealant.
- Polysulphide mastic sealants have an unpleasant smell, unlike silicone sealants.
To replace polysulphide sealants, other options or alternatives you can use include:
Silicone Sealants
Silicone sealants are well-known and quite expensive. One advantage of silicone sealants is that you can use them at high temperatures without destroying any of its properties. They are very durable and can last for 10 to 20 years. They are used for bonding glass to frames, bathroom sealants, and for industrial purposes.
Domestic Silicone Sealant
Commercial Silicone Sealant
Acrylic Sealants
Acrylic sealants are ideal for exterior applications, and this is because they are UV stable. They are extremely reliable as they aren’t subject to shrinkage. With a life span of 5 to 10 years, acrylic sealants are great for thread locking (fastening bolts and screws).
Read also: Silicone Sealant Vs Acrylic Sealant
Butyl Sealants
Butyl sealants are affordable and can bond to so many substrates. They are not advisable for construction applications and have a life expectancy of 5 to 10 years.
Water-based Latex Sealants
Water-based latex sealants are widely recognized not only due to their easy application but also because they bond to various surfaces. They are best for spaces with little or no movements. Water-based latex sealants allow painting, and this makes the result more appealing to the eyes.
Thiokol
Thiokol sealants are of high quality and durable. They are resistant to weather conditions, acids, oils, and gasoline. Thiokol also has good adhesion to metals and can be used in roof construction and repair.
Polyurethane
Polyurethane sealants are a popular go-to sealant for most contractors. They are flexible, resistant to shear and abrasion, and bond well to so many surfaces. Polyurethane sealants can also be painted and do not corrode. They work perfectly for ventilation, roof regeneration, and air conditioners. They are the most suitable sealants for hull-to-deck joints.
Bituminous Sealants
Bituminous sealants are best used as waterproof for buildings due to their durability. They can also bond to a wide range of materials, including bricks, roofing, concrete, and trees. Bitumen is ideal for roof construction and repairs and the building of houses and garages.
Depending on your preference, these polysulphide sealant alternatives are more efficient and more affordable. If you need a mastic specialist or team to carry out large commercial projects, you can rely on GT Sealants. They specialise in every aspect of mastic sealant projects with high efficiency.
