Why do so many Dubai construction projects face premature sealing failures despite using premium hardware? The answer often lies not in the quality of export-grade materials, but in critical application errors that compromise performance in the UAE’s extreme climate. Silicon sealant emerges as the essential solution—when applied correctly, it creates durable, flexible, and weather-resistant seals that withstand Dubai’s harsh sun, humidity, and temperature fluctuations.
Also read – Platinum vs. Tin-Cured Silicone: Advantages for UAE Buildings
How Silicon Sealant is Made: From Raw Material to Finished Product
Raw Material(s): The primary material is polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), a silicone polymer derived from silica (sand) and methyl chloride. Reinforcing fillers like fumed silica, pigments for color, and cross-linking agents complete the formulation.
Manufacturing Process: The production involves precise compounding: PDMS base polymer is mixed with fillers and additives in high-shear mixers. Catalysts initiate cross-linking, and the mixture is extruded into cartridges. Curing occurs through moisture in the air (for acetoxy or neutral cure types), forming a flexible rubber.
Key Properties Derived from Manufacturing: The process ensures excellent adhesion and flexibility, allowing movement without cracking. It also provides superior UV and temperature resistance, crucial for Dubai’s 50°C summers, and waterproofing capabilities that prevent moisture ingress.
Quality Control: Manufacturers test for viscosity, extrusion rate, skin-over time, and full cure time. Adhesion tests on substrates like glass and aluminum, along with accelerated weathering tests, ensure compliance with standards like ASTM C920.
Essential Uses in the UAE Construction Landscape
Primary Application(s): In Dubai, silicon sealant is indispensable for glazing and curtain wall systems, sealing expansion joints in high-rises, and waterproofing bathrooms and balconies. Its ability to maintain elasticity under thermal expansion makes it ideal for sealing perimeters of windows and doors in skyscrapers, as noted by experts at the Dubai Department of Economic Development.
Top Mistakes to Avoid with Silicon Sealant in Dubai
1. Ignoring Substrate Preparation: Failing to clean surfaces thoroughly of dust, oil, or old sealant leads to poor adhesion. In Dubai’s sandy environment, this is a common oversight.
2. Using the Wrong Sealant Type: Acetic acid-cured sealants can corrode metals common in UAE construction; always use neutral cure for metal and stone.
3. Applying in Adverse Conditions: High humidity or extreme heat during application accelerates skin formation, trapping moisture and causing bubbles or incomplete curing.
4. Skipping Primer on Non-Porous Surfaces: Without a primer, adhesion to materials like glass or aluminum may fail under thermal stress.
5. Overfilling or Underfilling Joints: Incorrect bead size compromises the seal’s ability to handle movement, leading to cracks or leaks.
6. Not Tooling the Bead: Leaving the sealant unbeaded reduces contact area and weatherproofing effectiveness.
7. Using Expired or Poor-Quality Products: Substandard sealants degrade quickly under UV exposure, common in Dubai.
8. Incompatibility with Materials: Some sealants react with plastics or coatings; always check compatibility datasheets.
9. Rushing the Curing Process: Allowing insufficient cure time before exposure to water or stress leads to failure.
10. Neglecting Maintenance Inspections: Dubai’s climate demands regular checks for degradation, yet many projects overlook this.
Choosing a Reliable Supplier in Dubai
Select suppliers with proven track records, certifications like ISO standards, and products tested for UAE conditions. Ensure they offer technical support and supply consistency for long-term projects.
Trusted Partner for Construction Hardware: AHMAD AND KHADEEJA TRADING LLC
For decades, AHMAD AND KHADEEJA TRADING LLC has been a cornerstone in Dubai’s hardware and construction supply sector. Located in Deira, Near Sabkha Bus Stand, they bring unmatched expertise and reliability to every project. Specializing in Fasteners, Safety Items, Rigging ware, and Power Tools, they understand the critical role of quality materials in enduring UAE constructions.
Their extensive inventory ensures that professionals have access to top-tier silicon sealants and complementary products that meet the rigorous demands of Dubai’s architecture. With a commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction, they provide not just products but solutions backed by deep industry knowledge.
Visit their website at aktc.co to explore their range and benefit from their decades of experience in supplying the construction industry with durable, reliable hardware that stands the test of time and climate.