UK Sealant Types & Applications
Silicone, acrylic, polyurethane, hybrid and butyl sealant types with cure times, movement capability and paintability.
Sealant Types Comparison
| Type | Movement | Paintable | Waterproof | UV Resistant | Cure Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Silicone (acetoxy) | ±25% | No | Yes | Good | 24–48 hrs |
| Silicone (neutral cure) | ±25% | No | Yes | Good | 24–48 hrs |
| Acrylic | ±10–15% | Yes | No (water-based) | Fair | 24–72 hrs |
| Polyurethane (PU) | ±25% | Yes (once cured) | Yes | Poor (paint over) | 24–48 hrs |
| Hybrid (MS polymer) | ±25% | Yes | Yes | Good | 24–48 hrs |
| Butyl | ±15% | Some types | Yes | Fair | Remains flexible (non-curing) |
Application Guide
| Application | Recommended Sealant | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bath / shower seal | Sanitary silicone (neutral cure) | Must contain fungicide |
| Kitchen worktop to wall | Sanitary silicone or hybrid | Neutral cure for stone worktops |
| Window / door frame to masonry | Neutral cure silicone or hybrid | Low modulus for larger joints |
| Internal cracks (plaster to timber) | Acrylic caulk | Paintable, fills small gaps |
| Expansion joints (concrete/masonry) | Polyurethane or hybrid | High movement capability |
| Glazing (single pane) | Acetoxy silicone | Excellent glass adhesion |
| Roofing repairs | Butyl or PU | Remains flexible in all temperatures |
| Natural stone (marble, granite) | Neutral cure silicone only | Acetoxy will stain/damage stone |
Cartridge Coverage
A standard 310 ml sealant cartridge covers approximately:
| Bead Size (mm) | Linear Metres per Cartridge |
|---|---|
| 3 x 6 | ~17 m |
| 6 x 6 | ~8.6 m |
| 6 x 10 | ~5.2 m |
| 10 x 10 | ~3.1 m |
| 12 x 12 | ~2.2 m |
Related Calculators
See the Adhesive Types for bonding applications, or the Tile Adhesive Coverage for tiling products.
How We Calculate This
Frequently Asked Questions
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Last updated: April 2026
All calculations are estimates. Verify with your supplier.