You’ve got energy-efficient lighting and water-saving toilets installed in your new home. You even opted for earth-friendly alternatives such as 100% recycled countertops. But what about the substance that holds these materials together?
Adhesives and sealants are used in large quantities when it comes to construction, interior design, or home improvement projects. They help to hold building materials or substrates together, cover surface imperfections, keep moisture out and prevent mould from appearing. Yet their impact on the environment is often overlooked. With increasing consumer demand and regulations for green initiatives, a new (and essential) value proposition has surfaced in the adhesive industry – sustainability.
“Green” and “sustainable” are more than just trending words these days as consumers become increasingly conscious of their purchase decisions.
Why Silicone Sealant?
Silicone is an extremely versatile material that is highly resistant to ozone, ultraviolet (UV) light, ageing, weather changes and extreme temperature fluctuations. Therefore, silicone sealant also possesses higher durability compared to other organic materials used in the adhesive industry. Using sealants with a longer working life reduces the need for maintenance and replacement. The increased material efficiency of silicone sealants thus lowers the total lifetime cost of maintaining a building, making them a very sustainable option.
When you are choosing sealants for your windows panels, gaps and partitions on your balcony or for outdoor use in general, it is important to bear in mind that exterior sealants must be able to withstand various weather conditions. Here is a basic checklist that we’ve put together for you to consider before purchasing a sealant for outdoor use:
- – Weather resistance
- – Water resistance i.e. keep moisture out especially when it rains
- – UV and ozone resistance
- – Non-corrosive and highly durable
With the myriad of products available in the market, it may not be feasible to go through every product label and its technical description to verify the sustainability and environmental impact of sealants.
Visit the Dow Adhesive and Sealant Blog for more information and tips on applying sealants for your home.
