Many different compounds are used in the construction industry. When performing installation work and repairs, it is often impossible to do without a sealant. The modern market offers a huge variety of products that differ in composition, purpose and performance. Consider this market segment and dwell on black silicone sealants in more detail.
Features of the
The main purpose of various types of sealants is to fill holes, cracks by forming a dense and sealed layer. To make the right choice of the composition, it is necessary to initially determine in which particular area the product will be used.
Black sealants are special formulations with a dye addition. This product has specific uses, some of which differ from neutral silicone sealants.
Range
The hardened layer of silicone sealant cannot be processed with paints and varnishes due to its elasticity, but it will not be difficult to find a suitable option. Manufacturers have developed a wide color range of products, taking into account the huge variety of finishing materials and styles. Transparent, colored and black silicone based sealants are commercially available.
Varieties in composition
All products from this category can be divided into two types: one-component and two-component formulations. Products from the first category are most often used in everyday life. They are sold ready-to-use and it will be easy even for a beginner to apply the sealant.
One-component formulations are divided into the following types, depending on the components in the composition
- Neutral. The name speaks of versatility. This type of sealant is compatible with a variety of surfaces.
- Alkaline. The composition includes amines. This is a special purpose product.
- Acidic. The most affordable option. Acetic acid is used in the manufacturing industry.
For the manufacture of two-component formulations, a hardener and a base are used. Each of the components is stored in a separate container. The elements react when mixed. This variety is used, as a rule, in an industrial direction.
Let's consider what other black compositions are
- Bituminous (roofing) sealant - the product is intended for laying drainage structures or tiles.
- Plumbing (sanitary) - carrying out repair plumbing work. It is used in shower cabins and on the basis of bathrooms.
- Aquarium - the name of the product speaks for itself. Sealant for the repair of aquariums and similar structures.
- Low modulus - for the design of interpanel joints.
Purpose
The variety of silicone sealants available from major specialty stores will confuse every inexperienced buyer. Compositions are divided not only by composition, but also by the nature of the application.
Depending on the purpose, there are three main areas: special, construction and automotive. Some of them are highly targeted formulations, others are more popular.
Automotive black compound is considered one of the special products.
Black silicone based sealant is widely used in vehicle repair and maintenance. It is necessary when replacing gaskets or performing technical work.
It is worth noting that this is not the only area of use for black sealants. They also found their application in everyday life. Black silicone sealant is often used as a grout in bathrooms and similar areas. The dark color is ideal for both classic and modern styles.
For work with natural materials, for example, with granite or stone, the black composition is also in demand. It has all the necessary technical characteristics, depending on the purpose.
Performance characteristics
The use of a black sealant is due to its special characteristics:
- dense texture that does not spread and retains its shape when applied;
- the maximum temperature indicator maintained by the sealant is 300 degrees Celsius with a plus sign (with short-term exposure);
- the material is not subject to the aging process;
- excellent resistance to water, antifreeze and machine oil.
Features of the choice of black composition
With the advent of silicone sealants on store shelves, the sealing process has been greatly simplified. If earlier it was a long, problematic and painstaking process, now you can carry out the work yourself without involving specialists. This saves not only material resources, but also time and effort.
Neutral composition with a dense and elastic structure, suitable for a variety of jobs: sealing cracks, sealing individual areas, gluing the aquarium and various structures. Special components in the composition will provide reliable protection against negative external factors, such as increased moisture, direct sunlight, and more.
How to choose the right composition?
Depending on the type of base and the field of application, one or another composition is selected. Russian consumers praised the product of the Kim Tec trademark at a high level. The silicone compound is actively used as an insulator for door and window openings, as well as aquariums. The main purpose of the sealant is to prevent dirt and moisture particles from getting inside. The main advantage of the product is indoor and outdoor use.
The compound can be used on metal, ceramic, wood and glass substrates. Silicone rubber, which is the main component of the composition, is highly resistant even when exposed to weather conditions.
The black sealant, if used correctly, will retain all performance characteristics for at least 10 years. The product is completely safe for health. Complete hardening occurs after 24 hours.
How to define a high quality composition?
Experts assure that the main criterion for product quality is the proportion of fillers in the sealant base. That is, the more silicone in the composition, the more practical and durable the glue. Pay attention to the 100% sealant. This is a top quality product. The sealant has excellent performance characteristics, including a long service life, elasticity, practicality, low shrinkage and other positive qualities.
A sealant containing a small amount of additives is also recommended for use. This segment includes the black sealant "101", as well as a composition called Ceresit CS 25. Due to its special characteristics, the product is used in rooms with increased moisture and dampness (bathrooms, swimming pools, warehouses, basements).
The use of formulations of this type prevents the development of mold and mildew.
Tips for determining quality
To distinguish high quality material, take advantage of professional advice.
When weighing a 310 millimeter tube of sealant, the approximate weight should be about 340 grams. If the value is higher than the stated norm, there are many fillers in the composition
Manufacturers use the letter "A" to denote acidic products. In the absence of marking, this composition can be distinguished by the pungent smell of vinegar
If, when using sealant on a polyethylene surface, the product begins to lose its shape and inflates, this indicates the presence of a solvent. Unfortunately, it will not work to check this by weighing
In order not to spend money on fake goods, make purchases only in trusted stores. Demand the availability of appropriate certificates that clearly confirm the quality of the products.
Characteristic properties
Silicon is used in production. It is a natural material that exists in the form of quartz or sand. A polymer is made from it - the basis of silicone.
This component, on which black silicone sealants are based, has special properties
- Elasticity. The products are used for reliable bonding of wood, glass, concrete and other materials.
- Strength. The sealant, manufactured in accordance with high quality standards, is able to withstand high temperature loads.
- Reliability. If the composition is selected correctly, the material reliably glues surfaces, regardless of their texture.
- Sealing. Durable and practical joint sealing.
- Persistence. The material is resistant to the vagaries of weather, dampness, direct sunlight and other factors.
Using
It is not difficult to work with black sealant, even if you are going to use the composition for the first time.
- To do the job as efficiently as possible, accurately and quickly, it is recommended to use a special gun.
- After unpacking the container with the composition, a special dispenser is put on the tip of the spout.
- The cut size depends on the desired feed volume of the consumable.
- The work surface must be cleaned and dried before applying the sealant.
It is necessary to remove excess particles of the solution before it hardens. Otherwise, you will have to clean it mechanically.
Testimonials
Let's summarize the article with product reviews. Considering the fact that silicone sealants have been in high demand since they first appeared on the market, there are many reports and responses on the web regarding this. Opinions about black sealants are shared by both construction and renovation professionals and ordinary buyers.
Most of the reviews say that the silicone composition is a profitable purchase. Many positive reviews indicate that black compositions are actively used both for minor repairs in everyday life and in various industrial areas. The black color fits perfectly into various interiors from a design point of view.
There are also negative responses. Some are sure that colorless and white compositions are more suitable for domestic use due to the neutrality of the shade. This is due to the fact that black is easily soiled.
For information on how to wash a car from silicone sealant, see the next video.