The right sealant: what you should look out for
Choosing the right sealant is crucial to protect surfaces in the long term and ensure their durability. Depending on the material and location, there are various types of sealers that differ in their function and application. In this article, you will find out what is important when making your choice and which sealants are suitable for different requirements.
Table of contents
Material and surface
The choice of the right sealant depends heavily on the material of the surface to be protected. Different materials have different requirements when it comes to protection and care. For example, porous materials such as stone, concrete or wood require a different sealant than smooth surfaces such as tiles, glass or metal. A breathable sealant often makes sense for porous surfaces, as it protects the material from moisture without hindering the natural diffusion processes. Smooth, non-porous surfaces, on the other hand, benefit from non-breathable sealants that provide an impenetrable protective layer. It is therefore important to know the exact nature of the material before choosing a sealant in order to avoid long-term damage.
Location and position of the surface
Another decisive factor when choosing the right sealant is the location of the surface and what weather conditions it is exposed to. Indoor surfaces are generally less exposed, but even here a sealant can be useful to repel dirt and moisture, especially in areas such as kitchens or bathrooms. Exterior surfaces, on the other hand, need to be much more resistant, as they are exposed to weather influences such as rain, snow, UV radiation and temperature fluctuations. Particularly durable, weatherproof sealants are required here to protect the surfaces in the long term and preserve their functionality. Depending on the location, the sealant should therefore be adapted to the external conditions.
Breathable vs. non-breathable sealants
An important differentiating factor for sealants is whether they are breathable or non-breathable:
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Breathable sealers allow water vapor to escape through the surface, but prevent moisture from penetrating from the outside. They are particularly suitable for materials that need to “breathe”, such as porous surfaces, natural stone or concrete. This type of sealing prevents moisture from building up under the surface, which could lead to damage such as cracks or mold.
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Non-breathable sealers provide a complete barrier against moisture and dirt. These sealers are particularly suitable for dense, non-porous surfaces such as tiles, glass or metals. They provide a completely waterproof protective layer, which is particularly useful in areas that are constantly in contact with water or other liquids.
When do you use breathable and non-breathable sealants?
The choice between breathable and non-breathable sealers depends on the type of surface and the area of application:
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Breathable sealers should be used when the surface needs to release a certain amount of moisture to prevent damage. This is often the case with facades, terraces or other outdoor areas where the material needs to wick moisture away from the inside to the outside. Breathable sealers can also be useful indoors, such as on certain walls or floors, to allow moisture to escape from the substrate.
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Non-breathable sealers are used in areas where absolute protection against water and dirt is required. This can be the case in kitchens, bathrooms or on surfaces that are exposed to heavy use by liquids. Here it is important to create an impenetrable barrier to protect the surface from damage.
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What other types of sealing are there?
In addition to the distinction between breathable and non-breathable, there are various sealing techniques that differ depending on the application and surface:
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Nano sealantsThis modern form of sealing is based on tiny particles that form a particularly resistant protective layer. Nano sealants are extremely durable and protect surfaces not only from moisture, but also from scratches and dirt. Almost all of our products are nano sealants.
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Polymer-based sealers: This type of sealant forms a stable protective layer that is used primarily on surfaces subject to heavy wear. They are particularly resistant to mechanical wear and chemicals.
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Special sealers for special requirements: There are also sealants that have been specially developed for certain materials or areas of application. These can offer UV protection or be particularly heat-resistant, for example.
The correct application of the sealant
Regardless of which type of sealer you use, correct application is crucial for success. Before applying the sealer, the surface should be thoroughly cleaned and completely dry to ensure optimum adhesion. For correct application, it is essential that you read and follow the relevant product data sheet, application instructions and safety instructions.
Care and maintenance of sealed surfaces
Even after sealing, surfaces should be cleaned regularly to maintain their protective function. “Gentle” cleaning agents that do not attack the sealant help to keep the surfaces clean and maintain the protective layer. Depending on the wear and tear, it may be necessary to refresh the seal after a certain period of time.
Conclusion: choose the right sealant
Choosing the right sealant depends on several factors, including the surface material, the area of application and the specific protection requirements. Our tip: Use our product finder. Here you can search for the desired surface or material and the right products will be displayed automatically.