Caulking and sealants are used indoors and outdoors. Caulking dries hard while sealants dry pliable and are useful for sealing joints. Most are available in drop-in cartridges or caulking guns. Sealants and caulking’s very in price ad compositions.
In the chart listed below are the major categories of caulks and sealants that are used for repairs around the home. Many Caulks and Sealants offer a variety similar characteristic and categories. To choose the best type for a particular job, consult the chart below.
|
Caulks/Sealants |
Long-Lasting |
Elastic Seal |
Waterproof |
Paintable |
Available in Colors |
Expansive Foam |
Flexible Seal |
Works on Damp Surfaces |
| Silicone Rubber |
x |
x |
x |
x |
||||
| Polyurethane Sealants |
x |
x |
x |
x |
||||
| Polyurethane Foams |
x |
x |
||||||
| Butyl Rubber |
x |
x |
x |
|||||
| Acrylic Latex |
x |
x |
x |
Silicone Rubber: For interior/exterior home use on moving joints. Works well on metal, glass, masonry, tile, porcelain, and ceramic.
Polyurethane Sealants: Good for sealing cracks and for glazing. Works well with wood, masonry glass, and metal.
Polyurethane Foams: Seals interior/exterior cracks when used with a primer on unpainted wood and masonry.
Butyl Rubber: Joins like materials inside and outside of the home. Bonds well to metals, works well when fixing repairs with gutters and flashing.
Acrylic Latex: Good for narrow interior joints and for nonmoving exteriors. Joints well around painted doors and windows.