What to Consider When Choosing a Sealant Brand Partner?
Silicone sealants play a critical role in ensuring the durability, waterproofing, and long-term stability of construction projects.
For contractors, choosing the right sealant product and supplier can directly impact project outcomes. Here's how to assess sealant quality and select a reliable brand partner.
How to Identify Good-Quality Silicone Sealant?
1. Check Certifications and Compliance
- International or national standards: Ensure compliance with standards like ASTM C920 (USA), ISO 11600 (International), or GB/T 14683 (China).
- Complete test reports: Ask for data on tensile strength, elongation, adhesion, weather resistance, and staining.
- Eco-certifications: Look for low-VOC certifications such as LEED, EC1 Plus, or GREENGUARD.
2. Observe Appearance and Odor
- The sealant should be smooth and uniform, free of bubbles or particles.
- Odor check: A neutral silicone sealant should not have a strong, pungent smell. Harsh odors may indicate substandard raw materials or crosslinking agents.
3. Conduct Simple On-Site Tests
- Extrudability: Smooth and consistent when applied with a caulking gun.
- Initial tack: Should bond to substrates without falling off easily.
- Elasticity after curing: Once cured, the sealant should be flexible, resilient, and not brittle.
4. Evaluate Long-Term Project Performance
Revisit past projects and check if the sealant has:
- Discolored or turned yellow
- Cracked or blistered
- Lost adhesion or peeled off
- Caused staining on substrates like stone or aluminum panels
What to Look for When Choosing a Sealant Brand Partner?
1. Industry Experience & Reputation
- Work with brands that have 10+ years in the sealant industry.
- Ask for successful case studies involving airports, high-rise buildings, or government projects.
2. Product Range & Project Fit
- Check if the supplier offers various types: neutral cure, structural sealant, weatherproof sealant, anti-fungal, stone-safe products, etc.
- Can they provide tailored recommendations based on substrate type and local climate?
3. Technical Support & Expertise
- Do they have experts to assist with on-site guidance and application tips?
- Can they provide detailed technical datasheets, adhesion test results, and substrate compatibility reports?
4. Production & Supply Capacity
- Do they offer stable supply for large-scale projects?
- Is the supply chain efficient with proper packaging, labeling, and traceability?
5. Warranty & After-Sales Service
- Do they provide 10+ years of performance warranty?
- Do they have a clear complaint and replacement process in case of product failure?
6. Reasonable Price & Long-Term Value
The lowest price isn’t always the best. Focus on cost-performance balance with reliable quality and support.
Contractors should follow a 3-step strategy when selecting silicone sealants:
- Choose the right brand with proven experience and certifications
- Evaluate the product’s performance through lab data and site tests
- Assess service capabilities, including technical support and supply reliability
Partnering with a trusted sealant manufacturer like JOINTAS helps avoid future risks and ensures long-term performance for your construction projects.
