If you work in construction and concrete maintenance, you know that selecting the appropriate sealant is crucial for project success. But deciding between products can be tricky, especially if you aren’t quite sure what does what.

In this post we’ll discuss sealants and how self leveling joint sealant differs from non sag sealant. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a DIY enthusiast, understanding the differences between these products can lead to better project outcomes.

What Does Sealant Do?

Sealant is used to block the passage of fluids through the surface, joints, or openings in materials. It’s used in building and construction to maintain structure durability and integrity. Sealants and adhesives are often spoken about as if they’re the same thing, but they have distinct roles.Silicone adhesives bond surfaces together, while sealants are used to seal joints or gaps.

A leveling sealant is designed to self-level and fill horizontal joints and cracks. This type of sealant is particularly useful in areas where a flat, smooth surface is required, such as floors and driveways. Leveling sealants flow easily into cracks and level themselves to create an even surface.

The demand for high performance sealants has never been greater. Quality sealants offer superior flexibility and durability, making them ideal for awide range of applications.

Self Leveling vs. Non Sag Concrete Expansion Joint Sealant

Self leveling and non sag concrete expansion joint sealants are both valued in the construction industry, but they serve different purposes. Here’s a quick breakdown of each.

Self Leveling Sealant

Self leveling expansion joint sealant is primarily used to seal horizontal expansion joints in concrete. This type of sealant is highly fluid, meaning it can spread and level out on its own after application. Concrete joint sealant self leveling products are easy to apply and are capable of creating smooth surfaces without the need for extensive tooling or smoothing by hand.

Self leveling sealant is most ideal for flat surfaces where a smooth finish is desired. It’s particularly effective at sealing horizontal expansion joints common in large concrete slabs, accommodating movement and preventing cracking.

One of the key advantages of self leveling sealant is its flexibility and adhesion properties. It can move with the concrete and maintain a watertight seal. However, its self leveling nature makes it unsuitable for vertical or inclined surfaces.

To install self leveling sealant, you’ll need to pour or pump the sealant into the joint and allow it to self level. This can save you time and effort and is an extremely cost-effective option for large-scale projects.

Non Sag Sealant

Is sagging a concern? If so, you’ll want to go with a rapid set non sag sealant. This type of sealantis best suited for vertical joints or overhead applications. As the name implies, it has a thicker consistency and sets quickly to maintain its position in the joint without sagging.

Rapid set non sag solutions are ideal in situations where fluid sealants drip or sag — for example, walls, columns, and other vertical surfaces. It’s also useful for overhead applications and in sloped areas.

This sealant is known for its fast setting time and robust adhesion. It remains flexible enough to accommodate movement in the expansion joints in concrete while keeping the structure firmly in place.

But this level of adhesion requires more precision than self leveling sealants. When installing a rapid set non sag sealant, you need to carefully apply the sealant into the joint and tool it to ensure full coverage and proper shaping. This tends to be more time-consuming and requires skilled labor to create a good seal.

Which One is Right For You?

Both types of sealants are widely-used in construction, and different situations call for different products. Ultimately, your choice of sealant will depend on your specific project needs. While self leveling sealants are best for horizontal applications, rapid set non sag sealants work well on vertical surfaces where gravity is a problem.

They are both excellent at accommodating movement in expansion joints and are especially great for handling joints in concrete. They can prevent all sorts of structural damage, saving you time and repair costs. Here are some additional factors to consider when choosing a sealant:

• Joint Movement: Assess the expected level of expansion and contraction in the joint. How much do you expect it to bend?
• Environmental Conditions: Consider exposure to weather, UV radiation, and temperature extremes. It’s important to “weatherproof” your surface.
• Application Ease: Evaluate the level of skill required for application and preferred setting time. Some sealants take much longer to set than others.
• Durability: Look for resistance to aging, shrinking, and cracking. Your sealant won’t do you any good if it fails to stand the test of time.
• Chemical Resistance: Check compatibility with the surrounding environment, especially if the structure will be exposed to chemicals or oils.
• Aesthetic Requirements: Consider the finish and color matching to the surrounding area. Aesthetics are important!
• Cost: As with any purchase, be sure to balance cost against the performance and longevity of the sealant.

Silicone Depot offers multiple types of quality sealants, including basicsilicone sealant andconcrete expansion joint sealant. Get in touch with us today to learn more about our products and see what our sealants can do for your next project!