The bathroom belongs to rooms with high humidity. That is why, when carrying out repair and finishing work, it is necessary to select the appropriate materials that are resistant to moisture. An important step in the finishing process is the sealing of the seams, through which moisture can seep, resulting in fungus and mold. Previously, for these purposes, special grouting of different shades was used, but now in the hardware store you can find a more attractive offer - a sealant. A sufficiently large assortment leads the consumer into confusion, because it is not known which one is better for the bath? The answer to this question can be found in this article.
Main types
Sealants are chemical compounds whose purpose is to protect seams and joints from moisture. The composition includes all kinds of compositions made from polymers with various modifying additives. To decide which is better, it is worth studying the entire classification.
This is the most common group of sealants and is very popular. It is due to increased water-repellent properties, long service life and good adhesion.
- Acidic (acetic). Its affordable price makes it more attractive to consumers, but it is worth considering that there are some restrictions on its use. So, due to its inclusion in the acid composition, it is not recommended to use it for metal surfaces - it promotes oxidation. It can only be used for elements made of stainless steel.
- Neutral. No acid is used in the production, which makes it suitable for all types of surfaces. This also affects the cost - it is higher than the cost of the previous analogue. Neutral is especially recommended for acrylic elements such as bathtubs. It can be used at almost any temperature, because it perfectly tolerates even sudden changes in temperature.
In addition, it is worth highlighting another classification of silicone sealants:
- aquarium;
- sanitary;
- colored;
- adhesives;
- construction.
Each of them has its own purpose and scope. So, if you need to decide on the choice of an aquarium or sanitary sealant, then it is worth considering that the first type is used for gluing and sealing glass surfaces (for example, aquariums), and the second for plumbing, plumbing and sewerage systems.
Silicone compounds are highly water resistant. It is quite simple to use, which allows even a beginner to cope with the work.
Acrylic
There are also many advantages and features of this category:
- practicality;
- affordable price;
- high adhesion rate to almost all types of materials, even porous;
- lack of unpleasant odors.
The latter became possible due to the absence of organic solvents in the composition, which means that it is possible to work with the mixture without special protective equipment (respirators). Within a day after application, the layer is completely dry. In stores, you can find two types of sealants: moisture resistant and unstable. The second group is not recommended for use in the bathroom, therefore, concentrate your attention on the first group.
To decide which one to buy, acrylic or silicone, you need to decide on all types of surfaces that will need to be treated with a protective compound.
A significant disadvantage of acrylic-based sealants is the low elasticity of the coating. It can only be used for surfaces that will not undergo deformation.
Silicone-acrylic
Sealants are considered a combined option, which include both acrylic and silicone. Thanks to this combination of materials, it is practically devoid of all the disadvantages that are in the analogs described above, but at the same time it retained all their advantages.
As a result of the application of the solution, an insulating coating is formed, which has such positive characteristics as:
- strength;
- durability;
- moisture resistance;
- elasticity.
If you want to protect surfaces from mold, then this category is best suited. The top layer is the most resistant to the formation and spread of fungus.
In some cases, this group of sealants can be used as an adhesive. The two elements are securely connected to each other and sealed at the same time.
Polyurethane
In production, innovative polyurethane mixtures are used. The polymerization process is activated at the first contact with air, since it contains moisture. The positive aspects of this group of sealants include:
- ease of use;
- profitability;
- durability;
- small percentage of shrinkage;
- high adhesion (to all types of surfaces);
- strength;
- maintainability.
When working with this type of sealant, the manufacturer recommends taking care of the protection of the skin of the hands - it is enough to arm yourself with rubber gloves.
Even after exposure to moisture, the layer will only become stronger, this type of insulator is absolutely not afraid of mechanical damage and deformation. When working with polyurethane sealant, it is worth considering that it sets and hardens quickly enough, so all actions must be clear and accurate. If you have opened the package, then you must fully use it, otherwise the residues will harden.
It is worth noting that this type can be used in the role of glue if it is necessary to glue small fragments or repair cracks. After complete drying, the seams are painted or varnished.
In addition to the above types of sealants, there are others, for example, bituminous and thiokol, but they are not suitable for our purposes, so we will not dwell on them.
Choosing a composition for the bath
To finally understand how to make a choice for a bathroom, you need to pay attention to the following:
- A high-quality sealant should, first of all, have increased water resistance.
- If there is a mark "sanitary" on the product, you can use it not only for finishing materials, but also for sealing plumbing. During the manufacture, manufacturers supplement the composition with antibacterial and antifungal additives, which are aimed at resisting the formation and development of fungi.
- Consider when choosing that the composition can be colored, white or transparent.
- In addition to the above varieties, it is worth considering that such materials can be professional and intended for household purposes. Beginners in repair and finishing work give preference to the second group, since it will be much easier to work with them.
To date, several of the most common brands can be distinguished in stores. These are "Sanitary Moment" and "Sanitary Titan". If you need to choose a composition for working with plumbing and plastics, then study the brands that have the mark "for acrylic and PVC".
When choosing a bathroom sealant, there are only three main criteria to consider:
- mold and fungal resistance;
- non-cracking pasty (gel-like) consistency;
- adhesion to all types of materials and surfaces.
In order not to be mistaken in the choice, it will be enough to opt for popular brands that have proven themselves on the positive side.
Video
The sealant application technology is as follows: