Sealants & Caulk: Substrate Material Compatibility Guide

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Introduction

The eight sealant/substrate compatibility charts presented here are organized by substrate material type and cross-reference 15 types of sealants. The tables show which types of sealants are compatible with various common building materials.

The tables are designed to help you figure out which sealant to use. They should point you in the right direction when it comes to product selection by showing how different sealants can be expected to interact with specific substrates under real-world conditions.

These compatibility assessments are based on my analysis of over 100 product data sheets from leading sealant manufacturers, as well as industry standards, field performance reports, and chemical interaction studies. Each sealant/substrate pairing was evaluated for adhesion, staining, curing behavior, and long-term performance.

Always double-check the technical data sheet for the actual product you intend to use before buying or applying a sealant. These data sheets are typically available on the manufacturer’s website and should contain compatibility guidelines.

Types of Sealant and Caulk

Here is a brief description of each type of sealant/caulk included in the tables below. For much more detailed information on each type of sealant, see the “Notes for Each Sealant Type” section further on in the article, after the tables.

1. Acrylic – Elastomeric

A flexible, paintable sealant for interior or light exterior use. Bonds well to masonry, stucco, and wood trim but lacks the durability of silicones or hybrids. Best used in low-to-moderate movement joints protected from water.
Popular elastomeric acrylic sealant: DAP® Dynaflex 230®

2. Acrylic – Water-Based

Designed for interior applications such as trim, baseboards, and drywall seams. It is easy to apply and clean but not weather-resistant. Susceptible to shrinkage, cracking, and moisture degradation.
Popular water-based acrylic sealant: DAP® Alex® Fast Dry

3. Acrylic – Solvent-Based

Solvent-based acrylics are now uncommon in general-purpose sealant applications and have been replaced by siliconized acrylics and acrylic–urethane hybrids for most paintable and flexible joint uses. Today, they are primarily used as concrete sealers, especially in exterior environments where improved surface wetting and adhesion to masonry are needed. Most solvent-based acrylics are sold in bucket form for roller or brush application, not in tubes for caulking guns.
Popular solvent-based acrylic sealant: Cryli-Tek 5505 Concrete Sealer

4. Acrylic–Urethane Hybrid

A hybrid acrylic formulation with added urethane for greater flexibility and exterior durability. Common in siding, trim, and window frame joints. Needs priming on non-porous substrates.
Popular acrylic–urethane hybrid: DAP® Extreme Stretch Acrylic Urethane Sealant

5. Bituminous / Asphaltic

Used for roofing, flashing, and below-grade applications. Bonds aggressively to porous materials and exposed metal but stains stone and has poor compatibility with plastics. Read more about roof cement.
Popular asphaltic sealant: Gardner-Gibson Black Jack 2172 Wet Patch Roof Cement

6. Butyl Rubber

Ideal for concealed lap joints and panel seams in metal buildings. Maintains adhesion over time but has low flexibility and often requires priming on smooth or coated substrates.
Popular butyl sealant: CRL 777 Butyl Rubber Sealant

7. Fluorosilicone

Specialty sealant used in fuel, aerospace, or chemical containment settings. Uncommon in construction but extremely resistant to solvents, fuels, and high temperatures.
Popular fluorosilicone sealant: Dow Corning RTV 730 Solvent Resistant Sealant

8. Latex – Painter’s Caulk

Economical interior caulk for baseboards, window trim, and other finish work. Paintable and easy to clean, but not flexible or weather-resistant enough for exterior use.
Popular latex caulk: DAP® Alex® Painter’s Acrylic Latex

9. Latex–Silicone Hybrid

Acrylic-latex base with added silicone for improved moisture resistance and elasticity. Suitable for interior joints exposed to light water contact. Not fully waterproof or UV-stable.
Popular latex–silicone hybrid: GE® Sealants & Adhesives Painter’s Quick Dry

10. MS Polymer (STPE / SMP)

Highly flexible, weather-resistant, and paintable. Bonds to nearly all building substrates, including plastics and coated metals, often without a primer. Excellent for high-movement and exterior joints.
Popular MS polymer sealant: Silco Eco-Flex EF-9500 MS Polymer Hybrid Sealant

11. Polysulfide

Used in glazing, submerged joints, marine and fuel-exposed environments. High chemical and water resistance but may stain masonry or degrade under UV unless topcoated.
Popular polysulfide sealant: BoatLife Life-Calk

12. Polyurethane

Tough, flexible, and weather-resistant. Adheres well to concrete, masonry, and metal but may discolor with UV. Usually needs a primer on plastic or coated surfaces.
Popular polyurethane sealant: Sika Sikaflex-221

13. Silicone – Acetoxy-Cure

Excellent adhesion to glass, ceramic, and non-porous materials. Fast curing but not compatible with many metals or masonry due to acidic byproducts.
Popular acetoxy silicone: GE® Silicone I

14. Silicone – Neutral-Cure (Oxime)

Versatile exterior-grade silicone with no corrosive byproducts. Compatible with most plastics, metals, and masonry. Ideal for façade and fenestration joints.
Popular neutral-cure silicone: Dow® 795 Silicone Building Sealant

15. Silicone–Acrylic Hybrid

Combines paintability with improved water resistance. Suitable for joints in trim and siding, among other applications, where moderate movement and weather exposure occur.
Popular silicone–acrylic hybrid: GE Paintable Silicone Supreme Window & Door Sealant

Compatibility Icons Used in the Tables

✅ Compatible

The sealant is considered suitable for use with this substrate without special preparation. It adheres reliably, cures properly, and maintains performance over time under typical field conditions.

⚠️ Conditional

The sealant may be suitable, but certain conditions must be met to ensure proper adhesion and long-term performance. Common reasons for a conditional rating include:

• The need for surface preparation, such as cleaning, abrasion, or drying
• Primers required to promote adhesion or seal the surface
• Substrate characteristics that may interfere with bonding (e.g., surface texture, porosity, coatings, or chemical additives)
• Environmental factors such as UV exposure, heat, or moisture cycling
• Variability between manufacturers or specific product formulations

Field testing or a review of the sealant manufacturer’s recommendations is advised.

❌ Incompatible

The sealant is generally unsuitable for this substrate due to:

• Poor or unreliable adhesion
• Chemical interactions that cause staining, softening, or cure problems
• Incompatibility with surface coatings or treatments
• Risk of performance failure over time, such as cracking, shrinking, or delamination

Use of the sealant on this substrate is not recommended unless specifically approved by the manufacturer.

Glass Substrates – Sealant Compatibility Table

Insulation Substrates – Sealant Compatibility Table

Interior Surfaces – Sealant Compatibility Table

Masonry Substrates – Sealant Compatibility Table

Metal Substrates – Sealant Compatibility Table

Plastic & Rubber Substrates – Sealant Compatibility Table

Roofing & Siding Substrates – Sealant Compatibility Table

Wood Substrates – Sealant Compatibility Table

Notes for Each Sealant Type

🔹 Acrylic Sealants

Includes: Acrylic – Elastomeric, Acrylic – Water-Based, Acrylic – Solvent-Based

✅ General Characteristics:

1. Acrylic – Elastomeric
   • Formulated with higher polymers and plasticizers to allow greater joint movement (often ± 25 %) and modest exterior exposure.
   • Adheres slightly better to marginal masonry (fiber cement, EIFS) and can tolerate brief UV exposure better than standard acrylics.
   • Will not bond reliably to non-porous plastics (polycarbonate, PP, HDPE) or roofing membranes without a primer.
2. Acrylic – Water-Based
   • Primarily interior use with low movement tolerance (usually < 5 %) and poor UV resistance.
   • Bonds well to drywall, plaster, painted wood, masonry, and properly primed metal but will shrink and crack if over-stressed or exposed to sunlight and moisture.
   • Exhibits weaker adhesion to smooth, non-porous substrates compared to solvent-based and elastomeric acrylics.
3. Acrylic – Solvent-Based
   • Formerly used for general-purpose sealing, these products now see limited use in modern construction caulking. Today, solvent-based acrylics are primarily sold as concrete sealers, often in bucket form for brush or roller application. While they offer improved surface wetting and less shrinkage compared to water-based acrylics, they are not suitable for flexible joints, wet environments, or plastic substrates. Tube-applied versions have largely been displaced by siliconized and hybrid acrylics.

Summary:

• Designed for interior applications and low-movement joints
• Bonds well to porous materials (e.g., drywall, plaster, masonry)
• Typically paintable, but low UV resistance
• Poor water resistance unless specially formulated
• Limited adhesion to smooth, non-porous surfaces
• Shrinkage and cracking are common failure modes in exterior use
• All three types will fail on very low-energy plastics (PE, PP, HDPE) without specialized primers or surface treatment.
• None are appropriate for roofing membranes, high-movement expansion joints, or wet/submerged joints unless specifically formulated as “elastomeric” or UV-stabilized.
• Elastomeric acrylics are the only acrylic variants intended for light exterior use; standard water-based and solvent-based acrylics are essentially interior grade (even if the solvent-based version may handle light exterior touch-ups better).

❌ Known Incompatibilities:
❌ Non-porous plastics (polycarbonate, acrylic / PMMA, ABS, HDPE, PP) — poor adhesion
❌ Flexible plastics and rubbers (PVC membrane, TPO, EPDM, neoprene) — adhesion failure and cracking
❌ Metals exposed to moisture (galvanized steel, aluminum) — corrosion or poor adhesion in unprimed conditions
❌ Roofing membranes and weather-exposed flashing — not weatherproof or elastic enough
❌ High-movement joints — cracks or detachment under stress
❌ Wet or submerged environments — water solubility, breakdown

⚠️ Conditional Uses / Prep Needs:
⚠️ Masonry and concrete — acceptable if joint is protected from direct water exposure
⚠️ Priming recommended for bare or oxidized metals
⚠️ EIFS and fiber cement — may require elastomeric formulations with UV additives
⚠️ Wood-based panels (OSB, MDF, particle board) — may absorb water from sealant
⚠️ Painted surfaces — verify that paint is water-based and non-chalking
⚠️ Interior tile, laminate — test for adhesion and joint movement

🔢 Acrylic Sealant Notes

Note 1: Acrylic sealants do not adhere well to smooth plastics such as polycarbonate, acrylic (PMMA), ABS, HDPE, or polypropylene. Their low surface energy and rigidity prevent bonding. [SWRI, GE, Pecora]

Note 2: Flexible plastics and rubbers (PVC, TPO, EPDM, neoprene) are incompatible with acrylics due to poor adhesion and differential movement. [Tremco, Dow, ASTM C920 Type S limitations]

Note 3: Acrylic sealants are not intended for use on roofing membranes, weather-exposed flashing, or exterior envelope components unless part of an elastomeric UV-stabilized system. [ASTM C834 vs C920 comparison]

Note 4: Metals exposed to moisture (e.g., galvanized steel, aluminum) require priming before acrylic sealant use. Otherwise, adhesion loss or corrosion may occur. [Pecora Acrylic TDS]

Note 5: Unsealed masonry and fiber cement can wick moisture from acrylic sealants, causing shrinkage and cracking. Use elastomeric formulations and backer rods for wide joints. [ASTM C834 Commentary]

Note 6: Wood panels like OSB and MDF are highly absorbent and may draw water from water-based acrylics. Prime or use a non-absorptive sealant type. [SWRI field guidance]

Note 7: Acrylics are not suitable for wet or submerged areas. Prolonged exposure to moisture leads to swelling, loss of adhesion, and disintegration. [ASTM C834 performance characteristics]

Note 8: Painted surfaces should be tested before applying acrylic sealants. Oil-based, chalky, or poorly adhered paints can interfere with bonding. [Tremco tech bulletin]

Note 9: Solvent-based acrylic sealants are primarily used for sealing concrete, masonry, and natural stone in exterior or semi-exposed conditions. They adhere well to porous vertical and horizontal surfaces. They are not designed for use on flexible plastics, roofing membranes, or high-movement joints, and may exhibit poor performance on metals without proper priming. These sealants are applied as coatings.

🔹 Acrylic–Urethane Hybrid Sealants

(Also marketed as urethane-modified acrylics or water-based urethanes)

✅ General Characteristics:

• Water-based or low-VOC hybrid combining urethane durability with acrylic flexibility and paintability
• Often used for interior/exterior transitions, siding, windows/doors, and low-movement expansion joints
• Paintable, easy cleanup, often labeled “multi-surface”
• Offers better durability than straight acrylics but still not suitable for extreme conditions
• May remain tacky or re-emulsify under prolonged water exposure if not fully cured

❌ Known Incompatibilities:
❌ EPDM, TPO, PVC, HDPE — poor adhesion and flexibility mismatch
❌ Polycarbonate, acrylic (PMMA) — potential crazing or bonding failure
❌ Roofing membranes — not designed for UV/thermal cycling of roof environments
❌ Porous natural stones — possible staining from water or surfactants
❌ Bituminous/asphaltic substrates — bleed-through and softening risk
❌ Immersed/wet environments — water resistance limited if not top-coated

⚠️ Conditional Uses / Prep Needs:
⚠️ Painted drywall, MDF, plaster — compatible if surface is stable and clean
⚠️ Coated metals — performance varies by coating; field testing required
⚠️ Vinyl, fiber cement, and engineered wood — test adhesion and movement tolerance
⚠️ Concrete and masonry — good adhesion if sealed and dry
⚠️ EIFS — compatible only when used with low-modulus elastomeric hybrid formulations
⚠️ Ceramic/porcelain tile — test for adhesion on glazed surfaces

🔢 Acrylic–Urethane Hybrid Sealant Notes

Note 10: Acrylic–urethane hybrids are not compatible with flexible single-ply membranes like EPDM, TPO, or flexible PVC. Movement mismatch and plasticizer migration cause bond loss. [Tremco, OSI hybrid specs]

Note 11: Polycarbonate and acrylic glazing materials may craze or reject acrylic–urethane sealants, especially water-based versions. Field testing required. [GE, OSI, SWRI hybrid guidance]

Note 12: Natural stones such as marble and travertine may stain when exposed to hybrid sealants, especially if the sealant contains water-based emulsifiers. Use ASTM C1248 testing or a non-staining certified product. [Pecora, ASTM standards]

Note 13: Bituminous and asphaltic substrates can soften or stain acrylic–urethane hybrids. Do not use unless a manufacturer-approved barrier is applied. [NRCA and sealant manufacturer compatibility docs]

Note 14: These hybrids are generally unsuitable for roofing environments or exposed flashing joints. They lack the UV and thermal resilience needed for such applications. [Tremco roofing accessory details]

Note 15: Coated metals and vinyl siding may perform acceptably, but surface chemistry varies. Field adhesion and flexibility testing is recommended. [OSI Quad Max and Tremco Dymonic literature]

Note 16: EIFS substrates may be compatible with certain acrylic–urethane hybrids if low-modulus and non-staining. Use backer rod and avoid thin bond lines. [Sto Corp and Dryvit details]

🔹 Bituminous / Asphaltic Sealants

Includes: cold-applied asphaltic sealants, roof cement, modified bitumen mastics

✅ General Characteristics:

• Petroleum-based; generally thick, non-curing or slow-curing
• Common in roof repair, underground waterproofing, foundation sealing
• Adheres well to asphaltic roofing products, some metal surfaces, and concrete
• Inexpensive, weather-resistant, and UV-tolerant when protected
• Not paintable; emits solvent vapors; softens under heat
• Incompatible with many modern membranes and sensitive finishes

❌ Known Incompatibilities:
❌ PVC, TPO, EPDM membranes — plasticizer extraction, chemical attack, bonding failure
❌ Polycarbonate, acrylic, HDPE, PP — surface crazing or bond loss
❌ Painted/coated substrates — softens or dissolves coatings
❌ Natural stone (marble, limestone, travertine) — heavy staining
❌ Interior substrates — off-gassing and odor
❌ Wood products — migrates oils and can cause permanent discoloration

⚠️ Conditional Uses / Prep Needs:
⚠️ Galvanized steel, aluminum — can adhere but may corrode without primer
⚠️ Concrete and masonry — adheres well but may require primer in damp conditions
⚠️ Modified bitumen — compatible when similar chemistry is used (SBS-based)
⚠️ BUR (built-up roofing) — traditional compatibility, but age and contamination may affect adhesion
⚠️ EIFS and insulation materials — chemical softening and shrinkage possible; not recommended unless isolated and approved

🔢 Bituminous Sealant Notes

Note 17: Bituminous sealants are chemically incompatible with single-ply membranes such as TPO, PVC, and EPDM. They extract plasticizers and may melt or soften the membrane. [NRCA, GAF, Firestone compatibility bulletins]

Note 18: Polycarbonate, acrylic, polyethylene, and other plastics are affected by bituminous solvents and oils. Bond failure or visible damage is likely. [Tremco & Karnak roofing mastics literature]

Note 19: Bituminous compounds will stain or permanently darken natural stones such as marble, travertine, and limestone. Use only with protective barriers or avoid entirely. [ASTM C1248 staining guidance]

Note 20: Metal surfaces like galvanized steel and bare aluminum may experience corrosion when exposed to asphaltic materials. Priming or isolation is required. [CertainTeed and Karnak metal flashing sealant details]

Note 21: Bituminous sealants release strong hydrocarbon odors and VOCs, making them unsuitable for interior use or enclosed environments. [OSHA, Tremco MSDS data]

Note 22: Painted or coated substrates can be chemically attacked by asphaltic solvents. Coatings may blister, lift, or dissolve on contact. [Dow coating compatibility notes]

Note 23: Bituminous sealants are compatible with aged BUR and SBS-modified bitumen products if clean and primed. Freshly torched surfaces may inhibit adhesion. [NRCA and GAF roof repair guides]

Note 24: Insulation boards, especially polystyrene (EPS, XPS, Polyiso), may soften or shrink if exposed to bitumen or roof cement. Only use compatible separation layers. [DuPont and Owens Corning product warnings]

🔹 Butyl Rubber Sealants

✅ General Characteristics:

• Non-curing or very slow cure
• Low movement capability but excellent vapor barrier
• Long-term tackiness maintains seal against mechanical stress
• Strong adhesion to glass, many plastics, and metals
• Often used in curtain wall glazing, concealed lap joints, and WRB transitions

❌ Known Incompatibilities:
❌ Cementitious and masonry materials (concrete, brick) — poor bonding and visible staining
❌ Porous stone — heavy staining risk
❌ UV-exposed applications — softens, collects dirt, degrades over time
❌ Direct contact with acetoxy silicones — chemical incompatibility in layered use

⚠️ Conditional Uses / Prep Needs:
⚠️ Coated metals and plastics — variable performance, field testing recommended
⚠️ Roofing membranes — may be acceptable in protected conditions (laps, transition splices)
⚠️ Painted or primed surfaces — verify adhesion and surface compatibility
⚠️ Low-temperature or submerged environments — reduced adhesion possible

🔢 Butyl Rubber Notes

Note 25: Butyl rubber sealants are incompatible with concrete, brick, and other cementitious materials. They stain surfaces and fail to bond unless modified with special primers. [Dow, OSI, ASTM]

Note 26: Butyl should not be used in visible exterior joints. It degrades under UV exposure and accumulates dust and airborne pollution. [Pecora, SWRI field practice]

Note 27: Butyl and acetoxy silicone sealants may chemically interact when in direct contact, causing bond loss or surface softening. Do not layer these two types. [GE Silicones compatibility guidance]

Note 28: When used on coated metals or plastics (e.g., PVC, ACM, vinyl), butyl rubber may exhibit plasticizer migration or reduced bond strength. Field testing is essential. [Tremco butyl primer documentation]

Note 29: Butyl is conditionally compatible with roofing membranes like modified bitumen or TPO in non-exposed lap joints only. Not suitable for expansion joints or flashing transitions. [NRCA sealant details for concealed roofing joints]

🔹 Fluorosilicone Sealants

✅ General Characteristics:

• Superior chemical and fuel resistance
• Retains flexibility over a wide temperature range (–75 °F to 500 °F)
• Good adhesion to many metals and plastics (subject to testing)
• Moisture-cure chemistry

❌ Known Incompatibilities:
❌ Very few, but always field-test specific combinations due to proprietary formulations

⚠️ Conditional Uses / Prep Needs:
⚠️ Limited published adhesion data — test adhesion for plastics and coated metals before general use
⚠️ Not recommended for porous masonry without primer

🔢 Fluorosilicone Notes

Note 30: Fluorosilicone sealants are chemically resistant but lack published adhesion data on many substrates. Field testing is required, especially for plastics and coated metals. [Specialty elastomer specs]

🔹 Latex – Painter’s Caulk (Latex Sealants)

(Also referred to as Painter’s Caulk, Water-Based Caulk, or Acrylic Latex)

✅ General Characteristics:

• Water-based, typically low cost and low performance
• Designed for interior use only, especially in painted drywall joints
• Readily paintable
• Shrinks significantly during cure
• Not UV-stable and not intended for wet or exterior use
• Very limited movement capability
• Poor adhesion to non-porous surfaces

❌ Known Incompatibilities:
❌ All roofing materials — not weather-resistant
❌ Most plastics — poor adhesion, cracking on flexible materials
❌ Porous masonry in wet environments — water sensitivity leads to failure
❌ High-movement joints — cracking or disbonding due to shrinkage and rigidity
❌ Metal and glass — poor bond and prone to water intrusion or corrosion

⚠️ Conditional Uses / Prep Needs:
⚠️ Painted drywall, plaster, MDF, wood trim — acceptable if dry, low-movement, and fully primed/painted
⚠️ Particle board, OSB — absorbent and inconsistent; may require sealing
⚠️ Painted surfaces — ensure compatible (non-chalking, non-oily)
⚠️ Interior ceramic tile — test adhesion
⚠️ Primer may help on marginal substrates but doesn’t expand use cases significantly

🔢 Latex Sealant Notes

Note 31: Latex sealants are not designed for use on roofing or exterior envelope components. They degrade under UV exposure and dissolve or crack when exposed to moisture. [ASTM C834 vs C920 comparison, NRCA guide]

Note 32: Latex sealants perform poorly on plastics including PVC, EPDM, polycarbonate, HDPE, and TPO. Adhesion is weak, and differential movement causes early failure. [GE and Tremco water-based sealant specs]

Note 33: Latex caulks are incompatible with metal substrates like aluminum, galvanized steel, and copper. Water absorption and poor adhesion lead to corrosion or bond failure. [Pecora, OSI, SWRI field guides]

Note 34: Latex performs adequately on painted interior materials like drywall, plaster, and wood trim if paint is in good condition. Surface must be clean, dry, and free of chalk. [Dow and Tremco interior caulking products]

Note 35: Wood composites such as MDF and particle board can absorb water from latex sealants, causing swelling or bond loss. Prime these surfaces before applying latex. [SWRI compatibility recommendations]

Note 36: Ceramic or glazed tiles may not bond reliably with latex sealants. Test small areas before use. Acrylic latex with higher resin content may improve performance. [ASTM C920 guidelines for Class 12½ sealants]

🔹 Latex–Silicone Hybrid Sealants

(Also marketed as siliconized latex, acrylic-silicone, or silicone-enhanced painter’s caulk)

✅ General Characteristics:

• Water-based sealants that combine latex acrylics with a small amount of silicone resin for improved adhesion and water resistance
• Commonly used for interior trim, drywall, baseboards, casing, and window/door joints
• Paintable, with improved flexibility over pure latex
• Not true elastomers — movement capability is still limited (± 5 %–10 %)
• Easy to apply and tool; cleans up with water

❌ Known Incompatibilities:
❌ Exterior weather-exposed joints — UV degradation and washout over time
❌ Roofing and flashing membranes — insufficient adhesion and flexibility
❌ EPDM, TPO, PVC, HDPE — poor adhesion and plasticizer incompatibility
❌ Smooth plastics — low surface energy leads to unreliable bonding
❌ Porous stone (marble, travertine) — risk of staining from latex content
❌ Wet environments — prone to mildew, softening, and disbonding

⚠️ Conditional Uses / Prep Needs:
⚠️ Painted drywall, wood trim, plaster — generally compatible when dry and clean
⚠️ MDF, OSB, and particle board — must be sealed or primed to prevent water absorption
⚠️ Vinyl siding and fiber cement — may be acceptable in protected joints; test adhesion
⚠️ Ceramic or tile — test on glazed surfaces
⚠️ Interior window and door perimeters — OK if protected and painted
⚠️ Priming may improve adhesion on questionable surfaces, but cannot compensate for poor movement tolerance

🔢 Latex–Silicone Hybrid Notes

Note 37: Latex–silicone hybrid sealants are not suitable for roofing membranes or flashing joints. They cannot accommodate thermal movement and degrade under prolonged UV exposure. [ASTM C834 vs C920 comparisons, Tremco and OSI indoor/outdoor usage limits]

Note 38: Flexible membranes such as EPDM, TPO, and PVC do not reliably bond with siliconized latex sealants. Plasticizers may interfere with adhesion, and movement capacity is insufficient. [GE, OSI, SWRI performance charts]

Note 39: Polycarbonate, acrylic, and other smooth plastics generally do not bond well with latex–silicone hybrids. Field testing is recommended, but long-term reliability is poor. [Pecora and Dow hybrid caulk specs]

Note 40: Marble, travertine, and other porous stones can be stained by latex–based sealants. Water and surfactants migrate into the substrate and cause permanent darkening. Use ASTM C1248 testing or avoid use entirely. [ASTM, Tremco warnings]

Note 41: Wet or high-humidity environments may cause latex–silicone sealants to soften, mildew, or lose adhesion unless painted with a waterproof coating. [Dow and OSI hybrid usage notes]

Note 42: While acceptable for painted drywall and wood trim, MDF, OSB, and particle board must be sealed prior to application to avoid absorption and adhesion issues. [SWRI interior substrate guide]

🔹 MS Polymer (STPE / SMP) Sealants

(Also known as STPE, SMP, Silyl-Terminated Polyether, or Modified Silane Sealants)

✅ General Characteristics:

• Combines silicone flexibility with polyurethane strength
• Adhesion to a wide range of porous and non-porous substrates
• Paintable (usually), UV-resistant, and low-VOC
• Broad temperature resistance; moisture cure
• High movement capability (often ± 25 %)
• Excellent weathering resistance

❌ Known Incompatibilities:
❌ Polycarbonate and acrylic — potential surface crazing or bond loss (varies by formulation)
❌ PE, PP, HDPE — low surface energy causes bond failure without surface prep
❌ EPDM and some TPO formulations — adhesion failure unless primed
❌ Back-painted and mirrored glass — uncertain bond to coatings

⚠️ Conditional Uses / Prep Needs:
⚠️ Coated metals — adhesion varies; test painted or powder-coated substrates
⚠️ Natural stone — most products are non-staining, but ASTM C1248 testing still recommended
⚠️ Plastics with plasticizers (PVC, flexible vinyl) — may soften sealant or reduce bond over time
⚠️ OSB, MDF, and wood composites — may need primer or sealer
⚠️ Roofing membranes — use only with manufacturer-approved detail
⚠️ EIFS — generally compatible if low-modulus version is selected

🔢 MS Polymer Sealant Notes

Note 43: MS polymer sealants bond poorly to polycarbonate and acrylic in some cases. Surface tension and byproduct reactions can cause edge stress or bond loss. Field testing is recommended. [Sika, Bostik, ISO 16938]

Note 44: Polyethylene, polypropylene, HDPE, and LDPE are incompatible with MS polymers unless treated for adhesion. These plastics have very low surface energy. [Dow, Tremco, ASTM D3359]

Note 45: EPDM, TPO, and Hypalon roofing membranes vary in formulation and may not accept MS polymer sealants without primers or special prep. Check membrane and sealant manufacturer compatibility tables. [Carlisle, Sika, Bostik membrane guides]

Note 46: Flexible PVC and vinyl may leach plasticizers that interfere with cure or weaken bond. Sealant may become soft or delaminate over time. Use only with tested formulations. [SWRI field tests, Pecora STPE specs]

Note 47: Coated and painted metals (especially powder coat) may inhibit adhesion depending on surface chemistry. Always test or perform adhesion pulls. [Tremco and OSI hybrid primer guides]

Note 48: Most MS polymers are marketed as “non-staining,” but ASTM C1248 testing is still advised when sealing porous stones like travertine or marble. [ASTM C1248, Bostik non-staining literature]

Note 49: Wood-based substrates such as OSB, MDF, and particle board may absorb moisture and compromise sealant cure. Use primer or seal the surface first. [SikaBond Hybrid primer instructions]

Note 50: Hybrid sealants are generally safe for use with EIFS and fiber cement panels if low-modulus formulations are used. High-modulus types may cause joint stress or delamination. [Sto Corp and Dryvit hybrid sealant guidance]

Note 51: Roofing membrane compatibility is not universal. Even high-quality hybrids may not adhere to all SBS or APP surfaces without primer. Always confirm system detail with membrane supplier. [NRCA, manufacturer-specific approval lists]

🔹 Polysulfide Sealants

✅ General Characteristics:

• Excellent resistance to fuels, oils, and chemicals
• Common in aircraft, marine, fuel containment, and glazing
• Durable and flexible once cured, but typically requires primer
• Performs well on glass, metals, and concrete
• Slower cure and limited elasticity compared to silicones

❌ Known Incompatibilities:
❌ Most plastics: PVC, TPO, EPDM, polycarbonate, acrylic, HDPE, PP — low adhesion or plasticizer risk
❌ Roofing membranes — insufficient movement capacity for most roof systems
❌ Flexible substrates — modulus too high for high-movement joints

⚠️ Conditional Uses / Prep Needs:
⚠️ Metals — primer typically required for galvanized steel, stainless steel, aluminum
⚠️ Natural stone — risk of staining without primer
⚠️ Coated or painted substrates — verify compatibility and use primer
⚠️ Porous surfaces (concrete, brick) — may require primer to prevent water migration and promote adhesion

🔢 Polysulfide Sealant Notes

Note 52: Polysulfide sealants perform poorly on most plastics, including PVC, TPO, EPDM, polycarbonate, and polyethylene. These substrates offer either low adhesion or risk of plasticizer interaction. [Pecora, Tremco polysulfide sealant guidelines]

Note 53: Marble, travertine, and limestone may stain from polysulfide sealants due to oil migration. Conduct ASTM C1248 stain testing or use a barrier primer. [ASTM, manufacturer data]

Note 54: Polysulfide sealants generally require metal primers for durable adhesion to aluminum, galvanized steel, stainless steel, and copper. [ASTM C794, Sika polysulfide system guides]

Note 55: Polysulfides are not recommended for use on high-movement or flexible substrates like roofing membranes, expansion joints in EIFS, or uncured wood. Use low-modulus silicone or hybrid instead. [SWRI joint design manual]

🔹 Polyurethane Sealants

✅ General Characteristics:

• Excellent adhesion to porous substrates (concrete, wood, brick)
• Generally good adhesion to metals, especially with primer
• Not UV-stable unless top-coated
• Sensitive to plasticizer migration
• May stain or discolor sensitive finishes or stone

❌ Known Incompatibilities:
❌ EPDM, TPO, Hypalon — poor adhesion and possible softening due to plasticizers
❌ PVC (especially flexible) — migration and adhesion loss
❌ Polycarbonate, acrylic — possible crazing or delamination
❌ Polyethylene, polypropylene, HDPE, LDPE — poor adhesion due to low surface energy
❌ Back-painted glass or mirror — may lift coatings or interfere with bonding
❌ Marble, limestone, travertine — risk of staining or oil bleed-through without testing or primer

⚠️ Conditional Uses / Prep Needs:
⚠️ Most metals — mill finish aluminum, stainless, galvanized steel often require primer for long-term adhesion
⚠️ Coated metals — verify compatibility with factory paint or powder coating
⚠️ Treated wood — ACQ, CCA may inhibit cure or cause long-term bond degradation
⚠️ MDF, OSB, particle board — absorbent and inconsistent; usually require primer
⚠️ Bituminous substrates — may inhibit cure or cause discoloration unless primer is used
⚠️ EIFS — only compatible if sealant is low-modulus and used with base coat reinforcement
⚠️ Some roofing membranes — only if manufacturer-approved (e.g., modified bitumen with mineral surfacing)

🔢 Polyurethane Sealant Notes

Note 56: Polyurethane sealants do not adhere well to rubber-like membranes such as EPDM, TPO, or Hypalon. Surface prep and primers often fail. Avoid unless approved by both sealant and membrane manufacturer. [Sika, Tremco Roofing Bulletins]

Note 57: Flexible PVC, EPDM, and TPO can leach plasticizers that migrate into polyurethane sealants, causing bond loss or surface softening. [SWRI, ASTM field data]

Note 58: Polyurethane adhesion to polyethylene, polypropylene, HDPE, and LDPE is poor due to their low surface energy. Primer is usually ineffective. Avoid use. [Sika TDS, ASTM C794]

Note 59: Polycarbonate and acrylic may exhibit edge stress or microcracks when exposed to polyurethane sealants. Not recommended unless tested. [GE, Pecora, C1184 glazing reference]

Note 60: Mill finish aluminum, galvanized steel, stainless steel, and copper may require a metal primer for durable bonding. Field adhesion testing is recommended. [Dow, Sika, Tremco Metal Substrate Guidelines]

Note 61: Coated or painted metals can show unpredictable adhesion with polyurethane sealants. Verify coating compatibility and perform pull tests. [AAMA 800, Tremco Primer Chart]

Note 62: Polyurethanes can stain or darken natural stones like marble, travertine, or limestone. Use stain-test procedure per ASTM C1248 before application. [Dow, Pecora, ASTM]

Note 63: Treated wood (e.g., ACQ, CCA) may interfere with polyurethane curing. Use primer and allow sufficient dry time after treatment before application. [SWRI Wood Substrate Guide]

Note 64: OSB, MDF, and particle board are highly absorbent and can cause cure inhibition or inconsistent adhesion. Use a penetrating primer or switch to compatible substrate. [Tremco TDS, Pecora Technical Manual]

Note 65: Polyurethane sealants may be compatible with modified bitumen and mineral surfaces only with primer and approved roofing detail. Unprimed use may result in cure failure or staining. [Roofing systems TDSs]

Note 66: EIFS systems require low-modulus polyurethane and reinforcement mesh at sealant joints. High-modulus or unprimed joints risk bond failure and EIFS cracking. [Dryvit, Sto, SWRI]

🔹 Silicone – Acetoxy-Cure Sealants

✅ General Characteristics:

• Cure by releasing acetic acid, which provides fast, tack-free surface cure
• Good UV resistance and long-term flexibility
• Excellent adhesion to most inorganic materials (glass, aluminum)
• Not suitable for many plastics without primer

❌ Known Incompatibilities:
❌ Bare metals (aluminum, copper, zinc, galvanized steel, Galvalume) — risk of corrosion from acetic acid byproduct
❌ Cementitious substrates (concrete, mortar, CMU) — poor adhesion without primer
❌ Some plastics (polycarbonate, nylon, acrylic, PP, PE) — poor adhesion; potential crazing or cracking

⚠️ Conditional Uses / Prep Needs:
⚠️ Glass with reflective, fritted, or mirrored coatings — test for edge damage
⚠️ Painted/coated metals — possible interaction with coatings or primers; adhesion testing recommended
⚠️ Plastics containing plasticizers (PVC, EPDM, TPO) — migration risk; use only with confirmed compatibility and primer

🔢 Silicone – Acetoxy-Cure Notes

Note 67: Acetoxy-cure silicones release acetic acid during cure, which corrodes zinc, copper, galvanized steel, bare aluminum, and Galvalume. Use neutral-cure products for metal. [Dow, GE, Tremco TDSs]

Note 68: Acetoxy silicone adhesion to concrete and other cementitious materials is poor without primer. Use neutral-cure plus primer for porous surfaces. [ASTM C794, C920]

Note 69: Acetoxy silicone can attack polycarbonate, nylon, and acrylic, causing crazing or discoloration. Avoid or test before use. [GE Silicones, SWRI field reports]

🔹 Silicone – Neutral-Cure (Oxime) Sealants

✅ General Characteristics:

• Cure by releasing alcohol or oxime, which is less corrosive than acetic acid
• Excellent for structural glazing and metal panel applications
• Good durability, UV resistance, and flexibility
• Better compatibility with many substrates compared to acetoxy silicones

❌ Known Incompatibilities:
❌ Low-surface-energy plastics (PE, PP, HDPE) — often poor adhesion without primers or surface treatment
❌ Plastics containing plasticizers (EPDM, flexible PVC, TPO) — can soften silicone and cause bond loss unless primed
❌ Painted or coated surfaces — verify adhesion, especially for factory finishes

⚠️ Conditional Uses / Prep Needs:
⚠️ Metals — primer recommended for TPO, EPDM, and painted metals to ensure long-term adhesion
⚠️ Stone surfaces (marble, granite) — potential staining unless non-staining formulation is used and tested
⚠️ Back-painted or mirrored glass — use only tested products for mirrored or decorative glass
⚠️ Porous substrates (concrete, mortar, CMU) — primer may be required for optimal adhesion

🔢 Silicone – Neutral-Cure Notes

Note 70: Neutral-cure silicones are preferred for structural glazing and metal panels. Use primer for TPO, EPDM, and painted metals. [Dow 795, Tremco Spectrem]

Note 71: Low-surface-energy plastics (PE, PP, HDPE) are often not compatible with any silicone without primer or surface treatment. [Tremco Spectrem 1 Guide]

Note 72: Plastics containing plasticizers (EPDM, flexible PVC, TPO) can soften silicone and cause bond loss. Use only with confirmed compatibility and primer. [SWRI guidance]

Note 73: Silicone may stain porous stones like marble or travertine if not a non-staining formulation. Confirm with ASTM C1248 testing. [ASTM C1248, Dow, Pecora]

Note 74: Back-painted and mirrored glass may be affected by certain silicones. Use only tested products for mirrored or decorative glass. [GE Silicones, Tremco 121]

🔹 Silicone–Acrylic Hybrid Sealants

(Also called modified acrylics with silane or silicone-enhanced acrylics)

✅ General Characteristics:

• Water-based or low-VOC formulations combining acrylic paintability with some silicone flexibility and weathering resistance
• Intended for interior/exterior transitions, window and siding joints, and low- to moderate-movement sealant applications
• Typically paintable, though some may require top-coating
• Easy tooling; soap and water cleanup (in water-based forms)

❌ Known Incompatibilities:
❌ Roofing and waterproofing membranes (TPO, EPDM, PVC) — poor adhesion and insufficient elasticity
❌ PE, PP, HDPE — low surface energy plastics not reliably bonded
❌ Natural stone (marble, travertine, limestone) — risk of staining, especially in water-based formulations
❌ Bituminous substrates — bleed-through and softening
❌ High-movement expansion joints — excessive cracking due to acrylic backbone

⚠️ Conditional Uses / Prep Needs:
⚠️ Painted drywall, plaster, MDF, fiber cement — good compatibility when primed or sealed
⚠️ Metals and coated substrates — variable adhesion; verify before use
⚠️ Vinyl siding, composite trim — acceptable in many cases but should be tested
⚠️ Wood substrates — stable when dry and primed; some swelling may inhibit adhesion
⚠️ Tile and nonporous ceramics — field test for adhesion and proper surface prep
⚠️ Use with proper joint backing — hybrids can shrink during cure

🔢 Silicone–Acrylic Hybrid Notes

Note 75: Silicone–acrylic hybrids are not suitable for roofing membranes like TPO, EPDM, or modified bitumen. They lack the flexibility and chemical resistance required. [OSI Quad Max, Tremco eXtreme, NRCA roof sealant specs]

Note 76: Polyethylene, polypropylene, and HDPE do not reliably bond with silicone–acrylic hybrids due to low surface energy. Use primers or surface treatment if necessary, but success is inconsistent. [SWRI field performance tests]

Note 77: Water-based silicone–acrylic sealants can stain porous materials like marble, travertine, and limestone unless confirmed as non-staining and tested to ASTM C1248. [Dow, Tremco, ASTM guidance]

Note 78: Bituminous substrates may soften or stain silicone–acrylic hybrids, especially water-based types. Do not apply over roofing cement or exposed flashing membranes. [Manufacturer cautions, Pecora hybrid testing]

Note 79: These hybrids often shrink more than 10 % during cure. They should not be used in high-movement expansion joints or joints wider than ¼ inch unless otherwise specified. [ASTM C920 vs C834 behavior]

Note 80: Compatibility with painted/coated metals varies. Always field-test for adhesion and confirm coating type. [Tremco and OSI hybrid sealant spec sheets]

Note 81: Hybrid sealants may require primed or sealed substrates when applied to MDF, OSB, or composite wood to prevent moisture wicking and adhesion loss. [SWRI compatibility guidelines]

🔹 General Notes

Note 82: Cedar contains natural extractives (tannins, oils, resins) that can migrate into and through sealant beads, causing staining and adhesion failures. Always prime cedar with a bleed-blocking primer tested per ASTM C794 and follow the ASTM C1193 joint-sealant guide for wood substrates before glazing. [ASTM C794, ASTM C1193]

Note 83: Cured silicone roof coatings present a low-surface-energy substrate, causing poor adhesion for most sealant chemistries. Use only sealants specifically formulated for adhesion to silicone coatings (or a compatible primer), and always perform adhesion tests per manufacturer guidance.

Sources

Standards and Industry Organizations

• AAMA (American Architectural Manufacturers Association)
  AAMA 800 – Voluntary Specification for Field Testing and Approval of Installed Architectural Sealant Joints
• ASTM International
  ASTM C794 – Standard Test Method for Adhesion-In-Peel of Elastomeric Joint Sealants
  ASTM C834 – Standard Specification for Latex Sealants
  ASTM C920 – Standard Specification for Elastomeric Joint Sealants
  ASTM C1184 – Structural Silicone Sealants Guide
  ASTM C1248 – Standard Test Method for Staining of Dimension Stone by Sealants, Adhesives, and Coatings
  ASTM C1193 – Standard Guide for Use of Joint Sealants
  ASTM D3359 – Standard Test Method for Measuring Adhesion by Tape Test
  ASTM D5329 – Standard Practice for Cold Applied Asphalt-Based Adhesive Used in Roofing
  ASTM D6690 – Specification for Hot-Pour Joint and Crack Sealants for Concrete and Asphalt
  ASTM D1190 – Practice for Use of Backer Rods and Bond Breaker Materials
• ISO (International Organization for Standardization)
  ISO 16938 – Adhesion Testing Standard for Silane-Terminated Polymer (STPE/SMP) Sealants
• Sealant, Waterproofing & Restoration Institute (SWRI)
  SWRI Field Guidance – Adhesion on Low-Energy Plastics
  SWRI Joint Movement and Weather Resistance Charts – Silicone, Polyurethane, Hybrid Sealant Data
  SWRI Interior Substrate Guide – Latex, Acrylic, and Hybrid Sealants on Drywall, MDF, OSB
• National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA)
  Roof Repair and Maintenance Guidelines – Compatibility of Sealants with Roofing Membranes
  Concealed Roofing Joint Sealant Details – Butyl Rubber in Non-Exposed Joints

Manufacturers and Technical Bulletins

• 3M Company
  3M™ Fire Barrier Sealant CP 25WB+ – Product Data Sheet and Compatibility Guidance
• Bostik, Inc.
  Bostik 915FS and 70-08A TDS – Hybrid and Polyurethane Sealants
  MS Polymer Hybrid Sealant Recommendations for EIFS and Fiber Cement
• Carlisle Construction Materials
  Membrane Compatibility Bulletin – STPE and Hybrid Sealants with EPDM, TPO, SBS, APP
• CertainTeed® Corporation
  Metal Flashing Sealant Compatibility Guidelines – Bituminous and Silicone Sealants
• DAP Products Inc.
  DYNAFLEX 230®, DYNAFLEX ULTRA®, DAP POWER POINT® 200 – Technical Data Sheets and Surface Preparation Guides
• Dow Inc. (formerly Dow Corning)
  Dow 795 Neutral-Cure Silicone Sealant TDS
  Dow Acrylic Sealant TDS (Standard and Elastomeric)
  Surface Prep and Stain-Blocking Primer Literature for Wood and Masonry
  Coating Compatibility Notes – Silicone and Polyurethane Systems
• DuPont (Tyvek® Building Envelope Division)
  Tyvek® – Chemical Compatibility of Sealants and Adhesive/Primers
  (Document #: 43-D100897-ENUS)
• Dryvit Systems, Inc.
  EIFS Joint Design and Sealant Recommendations – Low-Modulus MS Polymer and Hybrid Sealants
• GE Silicones / Momentive Performance Materials
  GE SCS1000, SCS2000 TDS – Acetoxy and Neutral-Cure Silicone Sealants
  Field Reports – Compatibility on Plastics (Polycarbonate, Acrylic), Coated Glass
• GAF Roofing
  Roof Repair Guides – Bituminous Mastic Compatibility with SBS, BUR Systems
• Henry Company
  Wet Patch®, Elastomeric Roof Coating, and Asphalt Sealants – Technical Literature
• Karnak Corporation
  Roofing Mastic Compatibility Data – Bituminous Sealants on Metal and Concrete
• OSI / Henkel Corporation
  OSI® Quad Max®, Dymonic® 100 Hybrid Sealant Spec Sheets
  Primer Guidelines for MS Polymer, Hybrid, Polyurethane Sealants on Low-Energy Plastics
• Owens Corning
  Chemical Compatibility Warnings – EPS, XPS, and Polyiso Insulation vs. Solvent-Based Sealants
• Pecora Corporation
  Pecora 890, 895NST, AC-20, STPE Hybrid Sealant TDS and Guides
  Acrylic, Polysulfide, and Polyurethane Sealant Specifications
  Natural Stone Staining and Primer Guidelines
• Sashco, Inc.
  Big Stretch®, Lexel®, Through the Roof® – Adhesion and Substrate Compatibility
• Shin-Etsu Silicones of America
  Functional Sealants Technical Manual – RTV and Construction-Grade Silicone Data
• Sika Corporation
  Sikaflex® Polyurethane and Hybrid Sealants TDS
  SikaBond Hybrid Primer Guidelines – Wood, Plastic Compatibility
  SikaWood Joint Guide – ACQ/CCA Treated Wood Usage with Sealants
  SikaPolysulfide Guides – Concrete and Metal Applications
• Soudal USA
  SMX Hybrid Polymer Sealants – TDS and Substrate Adhesion Notes
• Sto Corp.
  EIFS and Cement Board Sealant Guide – Recommendations for Hybrid and MS Polymer Sealants
• Tremco® Incorporated
  Tremco Spectrem®, Dymonic®, and 121 Silicone TDS
  Acrylic, Hybrid, Polyurethane Sealant Bulletins
  Sealant Compatibility with Coated Glass, Plastics, Modified Bitumen, and EIFS
  Butyl Primer Documentation