About Sealants & Caulk
Sealants and caulk are flexible joint-filling products used in tile installations to accommodate movement and create watertight seals. Unlike rigid grout, sealants remain flexible after curing, allowing them to absorb expansion, contraction, and minor substrate movement without cracking.
Sealants and caulk are commonly installed at changes of plane, perimeter joints, penetrations, and transitions where tile meets other materials. This collection includes products formulated for use with tile, stone, waterproofing membranes, and common construction substrates.
Types of Sealants & Caulk
- Silicone Sealants: Provide excellent flexibility and water resistance for wet areas.
- Polyurethane Sealants: Designed for strong adhesion and durability in interior and exterior joints.
- Joint Sealants: Used to fill and seal movement joints in tile assemblies.
- Expanding Foam Sealants: Used to fill larger gaps prior to applying finishing sealants.
How to Choose a Sealant or Caulk
- Application Area: Identify whether the joint is in a wet area, interior dry area, or exterior location.
- Material Compatibility: Confirm the product is compatible with tile, stone, and adjacent materials.
- Movement Capability: Select a sealant rated for the expected joint movement.
- Cure Type: Consider fast-curing or standard-curing products based on project timeline.
Common Applications
Sealants and caulk are used in showers, tub surrounds, backsplashes, floors, walls, countertops, and exterior tile installations. They are also used around plumbing penetrations, fixtures, and perimeter edges.
Why Use Flexible Sealants
Using flexible sealants instead of grout in movement areas helps reduce cracking, improve waterproofing performance, and extend the life of tile installations. Properly selected sealants support long-term joint integrity in residential and commercial environments.