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Time is certainly key when you find leaks in the building. Just as important, however, is the sealant you choose to waterproof your commercial structure. There are many reasons why a commercial property needs to use top-quality sealants on their buildings, and there are many companies around the country that make them, such as Dow Corning, Pecora and Sonneborn. This article will uncover the fundamental differences between the 3 most common types of sealants and what they can do for your building. When you finish this article you'll feel better equipped to make your commercial waterproofing sealant selection.

1. Silicone-based sealants are the number one sealant category according to industry standards. Products in this category carry the assurance of a 20-year limited weather-sealing warranty. Silicone sealants withstand UV radiation and handle fluctuating temperatures the best of the three sealant types. These sealants are widely used for commercial waterproofing and weatherproofing and meet global standards for the Americas, Asia and Europe. Silicone is a little more expensive but the old adage, "you get what you pay for," definitely applies in this case. After all, your commercial structure is a hefty financial investment. If you want the best, silicone-based sealants are the way to go.
2. Urethanecomes in at a very close second; it also is widely used in the industry for commercial weather and waterproofing. Urethane-based sealants are less expensive than silicone but must be replaced every 5 to 10 years, versus the 20 year lifespan of a silicone sealant. This type of sealant is also paintable, which is a big plus if your building has very a specific color palette to maintain.
3. Siloxane powders(also known as resin modifiers) are a very different category of sealants. They are 100% active, free-flowing powders available in both non-reactive and organically-reactive grades. These unique polymers are typically used to improve flame retardant properties, unlike other sealants. They ease mold release and retard mold growth, and they improve scratch and abrasion resistance. Unlike conventional silicone-based materials, siloxanes are made from ultra high molecular weight polymers that overcome the handling problems and surface adhesion difficulties that may be a problem for other sealants. Siloxane-based sealants are frequently used by exterior building sealant companies.

There are many companies that provide and apply these sealants to commercial properties for waterproofing and weatherproofing. Once such company is Exterior Diagnostic Services (EDS), a company with a strong distribution network and expert sales and technical support staff. "We provide our clients with 'Proven Solutions for Waterproofing' while staying within budget and protecting our clients' investments," says Rick Croom, Senior Project Analyst at Exterior Diagnostic Services. 

Many companies, including Exterior Diagnostic Services (EDS), are members of the Waterproofers Contractors Association and The Sealant Waterproofing and Restoration Institute, whose members are companies with demonstrated waterproofing expertise. If you are looking for waterproofing experts who know the ins and outs of the business, the Waterproofers Contractors Association and The Sealant Waterproofing and Restoration Institute are your best sources for this information.

Even though it seems as if picking out the correct sealant for your waterproofing project can be a daunting task, there are many resources that you can use to make the best decision for your particular sealant project. Simply set your project budget, determine how much you want to allocate for your sealant, pick the product, and go for it. If the company you select is truly reputable, they will recommend the proper sealant that will best address your building's unique waterproofing challenges.