ACETOXY SILICONES (ACIDIC, ACETIC)

Acetoxy silicones have a distinctive smell due to the acetic acid released during the curing process. This type of silicone is not suitable for use with materials sensitive to its acidic properties, such as lime plasters or metals, which may corrode or discolor upon contact. However, acetoxy silicones are highly resistant to moisture, making them ideal for use in kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, basements, and boiler rooms.

The following are types of acidic silicones:

• Sanitary Silicones
  These silicones possess antiseptic properties, making them highly effective in humid environments. They are commonly used for filling gaps exposed to water, such as sealing the joints between sinks and walls, and are also suitable for general kitchen sealing tasks, such as filling the edges around sinks. Many hygienic silicones are available on the market, though some do not contain acetic acid (referred to as hygienic neutral silicones). It is essential to note that these neutral variants are generally less resistant to moisture and water than premium acetic-acid-based silicone resins. When selecting a sanitary silicone, consider the presence of fungicides, which offer mold-resistance properties.
• Universal Silicones
  Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, these silicones are versatile and adhere well to various substrates, including concrete, glass, and some metals. They are used for sealing shower enclosures, glass displays, doors, windows, and interior fixtures like windowsills, wall panels, and flooring. Universal silicones are ideal for most general construction projects.
• Glazing Silicones
  Designed for glass and other smooth surfaces, these silicones offer excellent adhesion to demanding substrates. They are frequently used for sealing aquariums and similar applications.
• High-Temperature Silicones
  A professional-grade product with exceptional thermal resistance (up to +300°C). These silicones are ideal for filling gaps in heating systems, engines, cookware, ovens, chimneys, and pipes exposed to high temperatures. Due to their heat resistance, high-temperature silicones are widely used in industrial applications, such as assembling heating boilers and industrial furnaces.

The most commonly used neutral silicones belong to the alkoxy group. These odorless and material-friendly substances are highly suitable for use in homes and on construction sites. The curing of sealants occurs through a reaction with moisture in the air, resulting in a slightly longer setting time. The average skin formation time is 10–15 minutes.

Neutral silicones can be divided into:

• Construction Silicones
  These silicones are ideal for filling cracks in both interior and exterior walls, gaps in the foundation, spaces around windows, door frames, or skirting boards. They perform well in most carpentry joints and are also suitable for mounting mirrors. Construction silicones are widely used for various applications.
• Natural Stone Silicones
  Specifically designed for natural stones such as marble, granite, porphyry, quartzite, or sandstone, these sealants feature a specialized formula that prevents discoloration of the stone. They are perfect for installing sinks on marble countertops, finishing stairs, or other decorative stone elements outdoors. The silicone's formula prevents edge staining and ensures a long-lasting, clean appearance, which is particularly important and noticeable on smooth marble or other natural stones. These sealants are odorless, making them comfortable to use in enclosed spaces.
• Roofing Silicones
  These professional-grade products are water-resistant, sunlight-resistant, and durable against other weather conditions. They are used for standard roofing tasks, such as sealing gutters, waterproofing membranes, bituminous felt, roof penetrations, flashing, and other finishing work on roofs. Roofing silicone (also known as roof silicone) offers corrosion resistance and excellent adhesion to various materials, including bituminous felt, brick, wood, and concrete.

Before starting sealing work, surfaces should be thoroughly cleaned, degreased, and dried. It's important to note that silicones cannot be painted, which is why most manufacturers offer a wide range of colors. Among the most popular shades are white and transparent.