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Silicone Sealant and Sustainability: How It Fits into a Greener World

Silicone Sealant and Sustainability: How It Fits into a Greener World

Aug 13th 2023

The pursuit of sustainability has become a dominant concern across nearly every industry and for good reason. It’s important to take care of the earth so we can continue living here for generations to come.

At Silicone Depot, we take sustainability very seriously. Here’s how silicone sealant can help with your projects, from construction to manufacturing with silicone rubber, and how that aligns with sustainable practices.

How Durability Makes Silicone A Sustainable Choice

Silicone is extremely durable, which is part of what makes it a good fit for industries prioritizing eco-friendly materials. For example, the renewable energy industry uses silicones as bonding agents for wind turbines. The material’s weather resistance allows these towering structures to operate at peak efficacy longer than other substances. Another example is how the automotive industry uses silicone products like gaskets, seals, and hoses to prevent air leaks and optimize engine performance and fuel efficiency.

Silicone’s durability helps products we use in day-to-day life work better and last longer, both of which are essential factors when pursuing sustainability.

The Role of Silicone Sealants in Sustainability

Silicone sealants are emerging as unsung heroes in the quest for a fully sustainable world. Their protective properties alongside their negligible environmental impact is notable. Most people use silicone sealants to seal joints and gaps to prevent air and water leakage that could lead to energy waste and structural damage. Here are a few reasons why silicone sealants are a great sustainable option for all your upcoming projects.

Longevity and Durability

Silicone sealants withstand brutal weather, extreme temperatures, and UV exposure, outlasting many other sealant options in a variety of applications. This strength means they need fewer replacements, saving materials and reducing waste for years to come.

Reduced Environmental Impact

Unlike other sealing options like coal tar sealants, silicone sealants use fewer resources for production and distribution. The reduced need for raw materials, energy, and transport could greatly reduce our carbon footprint. Sustainable choices like high-quality silicone sealants help maintain a more balanced and healthy ecosystem.

Energy Efficiency Through Effective Sealing

As previously mentioned, silicone sealants can boost energy efficiency. Tight seals block drafts, air leaks, and water seepage. A well-insulated setting means less energy is necessary for heating and cooling. This saves the building or homeowner money as well as lessens the related environmental effects. Contractors hoping to save their clients money should consider using eco-friendly silicone sealants.

Seal like a pro

Silicone sealant can only fit into a greener world if you use it correctly. Here are some expert tips and tricks:

  • Check for Compatibility: Use a small amount of sealant in an inconspicuous area to make sure it works best.
  • Prep the Surface: Make sure the work surface is clean and dry before applying silicone sealant.
  • Size Matters: Cut the nozzle of the silicone sealant tube at a 45-degree angle so you can achieve the desired bead size.
  • Be Tough: Snugly fit the silicone sealant tube into the sealant gun.
  • Be Gentle: Gently squeeze the sealant gun when you’re ready to dispense the sealant.
  • Watch the Amount: Applying too much sealant can lead to wastage and affect how well it adheres.
  • Shape Fresh Sealant: Use a caulking tool or a spatula to shape the sealant when it’s fresh.
  • Mind the Stretch: When shaping the sealant, avoid excessive stretching to prevent weak spots from forming.
  • Let It Set: Give the silicone sealant ample time to cure.

Recyclability

So you’ve learned how to seal like a pro. What do you do with the damaged silicone sealant that you had to replace?

Although it may not be well-known, silicone sealants are in fact recyclable. Hopefully, growing awareness of silicone sealant’s recyclability will lead to more silicone recycling, expanding the reasons silicone is eco-friendly.

Turn to Silicone Depot For a Greener Future

Every decision we make, regardless of scale, matters in terms of being environmentally friendly. Silicone sealant might seem like a minute piece of the puzzle, but its impact is far-reaching. Its durability and waste reduction potential attract many eco-conscious champions.

Are you committed to sustainability?

Silicone Depot offers exceptional products that empower you to contribute towards conserving our planet's valuable resources. Your clients could appreciate your efforts to be environmentally friendly and drive repeat business your way. All you have to do is take a look at what the future holds.


Let us know how we can guide you to a greener world.