When it comes to choosing the right sealant for your next bathroom or kitchen project, it’s not uncommon to feel overwhelmed. A great place to begin is by understanding what exactly separates sealants from caulks.

Caulks vs. Sealant

Although caulks and sealants are often used interchangeably, they have some distinct differences. First, caulks can be any color; sealants are often white. Second, caulks are usually dry when they are applied, while sealants need to be wet. In addition, caulks come in several varieties, including elastomeric, acrylic, silicone and polyurethane. Interestingly enough, these varieties can be used as caulks or sealants depending on the job at hand.

So what’s the difference between caulk and sealant? Caulk is typically made of a mixture of latex and acrylic materials that makes it more rigid, causing it to shrink when cured. Sealant, on the other hand, is primarily made of silicone, giving it superior elasticity and water resistance. This makes it ideal for areas that experience frequent temperature changes and high moisture levels.

The Selection Process

When choosing an adhesive or sealant for a project, there are two major factors to keep in mind. Moisture level at the application site is one; the other is temperature range. 

If You Go With Acrylic-Latex Caulk:

Latex caulk, or acrylic latex, is a water-based sealant that can be applied to wood, masonry or other materials to fill and seal cracks. Unlike silicone sealants, it can be painted once it cures, it produces fewer fumes and can be cleaned up with mild soap and water.

It’s much easier to apply this kind of caulk, which means applications that are time-sensitive and areas that are hard-to-reach. When it comes to full cure, acrylic-latex caulks can take up to three days (72 hours). Usual plumbing applications for regular and speciality acrylic-latex caulk include:

• Caulking bathtubs, showers, sinks and toilets
• Sealing crown molding and baseboards
• Sealing gaps around plumbing fixtures
• Securing loose tiles

Keep in mind that hybrid caulk exists, such as siliconized acrylic-latex. 

A siliconized acrylic-latex caulk, like others in its class, can provide a more durable waterproof seal than a silicone sealant, while offering the ease of application and clean up of an acrylic-latex caulking compound. It’s available in many colors, can dry fast (in 24 hours), and won’t shrink or crack when exposed to temperature changes.

If You Go With A Silicone Sealant:

Silicone sealant is perfect for fixing cracked porcelain, ceramic, marble, fiberglass and most metal tiles. This 100% silicone sealant bonds to these surfaces, making it an ideal choice for outdoor wall use or anywhere it will be exposed to wet environments because it is extremely weather-resistant. 

It also contains antimicrobial properties that thwart the growth of mold and mildew without necessitating a second application. The sealant is UV-resistant, so as not to yellow, and cures within 24 hours, making it well-suited for time-sensitive repair jobs.

Conclusion

Picking the right sealant can be a bit tricky for some people, especially when it comes to sealants or caulk. Sealant is generally made of silicone for the most part; caulks are usually a mix of acrylic and latex. There’s also hybrid caulk, which can help things along with its own strengths. When in doubt, it’s always best to call in a professional.

Trying to find professional caulkers in Brisbane? Drop Quality Seal Australia a line today! We provide high quality caulking and silicone services to the building industry in the Gold Coast and Brisbane.