“Hybrid” Sealants
Breaking Down the Claims
The commercial building industry has long relied on urethanes, solvent-based silicones and acrylics as their go-to sealants. While these products typically have performed as expected, they left much to be desired. Downsides include staining, bubbling, shrinkage and UV resistance. These drawbacks have resulted in the emergence of a new technology that combines the best properties of silicones and urethanes. These “hybrid” sealants are making headway in the industry due to their environmentally friendly properties and aggressive adhesion. As this new technology continues to rise, more and more claims emerge. But what does all of these really mean? We break it all down for you.
Staining
Silicone sealants contains non-reactive silicone oil plasticizers which can migrate into or onto adjacent substrates causing oil staining issues on porous substrates like marble and granite.
The plasticizers found in hybrid sealants are reactive and will crosslink with other polymers, therefore no oil migration or staining occurs.
Blistering/Bubbling
Silicone sealants contain isocyanates that react with moisture to create carbon dioxide during curing. Carbon dioxide molecules form blisters that affect sealant aesthetics and performance.
Hybrid Sealants do not contain isocyanates that cause blistering/bubbling.
Shrinkage
Many polyurethane sealants contain solvent which evaporates during the curing process causing sealant shrinkage and a recessed joint.
Hybrid sealants do not contain solvents and therefore do not shrink.
UV Resistance
Exposure to UV rays causes most sealants to shrink and crack, making them useless as they no longer create a tight seal. Hybrid sealants are the only sealant technology that remains UV stable – meaning the sealant won’t shrink and crack as it ages. The product will remain flexible and maintain a tight seal.
Hybrid sealants can be applied anywhere most other general sealants can be applied. Applications include:
- Common Construction Substrates
- Perimeter sealing of windows
- Doors & Skylights
- Sealing Waterproof Membrane
- Construction Flashing
- Industrial
- Siding
