Pictured above: 100% silicone products are the gold standard for industrial sealing applications.
When procuring sealants for mining, construction, maintenance, or industrial projects, the choice between 100% silicone and extended silicone alternatives has significant implications for asset longevity, compliance, and total cost of ownership. Often referred to interchangeably as ‘optimised’ or ‘contract grade’ products, extended silicones may appear cost-effective at first glance, but their performance limitations can introduce hidden costs and operational risks that procurement managers cannot afford to overlook.
But how to understand the difference when considering the best product for your project? Genuine 100% silicone sealants, such as those offered by GUC Industrial®, are formulated exclusively from pure silicone polymers. These products contain no mineral oils or hydrocarbon fillers, ensuring maximum integrity and performance. In contrast, extended silicones include additives that dilute the silicone content, enabling manufacturers to reduce their production costs. However, these fillers compromise key properties of the sealant, resulting in a product that delivers less silicone and more risk. The use of mineral oils and other fillers can lead to early product failure. Fillers tend to evaporate over time, causing the sealant to shrink, crack, or peel, sometimes within months of application. This premature degradation can result in unsightly yellowing and discolouration, which not only undermines finishes but may also prompt clients to question the quality of materials specified.
Aside from aesthetics, reduced silicone content negatively impacts flexibility and adhesion, the critical functions of a sealant. Extended silicones are less able to accommodate building movement and may lose grip on substrates, increasing the likelihood of leaks and subsequent water damage. For procurement teams and workers, this translates to a higher incidence of rework, unplanned maintenance, and callbacks, each one eroding project margins and operational efficiency.
Specifying a requirement for 100% silicone sealants offers clear advantages. These products are engineered to withstand Australia’s demanding environmental conditions, maintaining their integrity against UV exposure, temperature fluctuations, and moisture. Unlike extended alternatives, pure silicone does not shrink or crack, ensuring long-term durability and reducing the risk of premature failure.
Pictured above: GUC Industrial’s new range of sealants are made from 100% silicone, with a formulation designed to withstand Australia’s harsh environmental conditions.
100% silicone sealants also deliver superior flexibility, making them suitable for applications where movement is expected, such as joints and window perimeters. Their resistance to chalking, yellowing, and weathering ensures that finished projects retain a professional appearance well into the future. From a compliance perspective, top-tier silicone sealants meet or exceed relevant Australian Standards, including certification for low Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) emissions. This not only supports environmental obligations but also aligns with client expectations for quality and safety.
Procurement professionals should take a proactive approach when evaluating sealants. Always verify claims on product labels, and review Safety Data Sheets for the presence of mineral oils or hydrocarbons, which indicate an extended formulation. Where compliance is critical, request supporting documentation such as test results or certification from suppliers. Reputable manufacturers will readily provide this information.
Investing in 100% silicone products is a strategic decision that safeguards asset performance. With the GUC Industrial® range now available through Blackwoods at competitive pricing, procurement teams can achieve both quality assurance and value for money.
Interested in using GUC Industrial® 100% silicone sealants for your site or next project? Get in touch with us today!