What is Silicone?

Silicones are versatile, synthetic materials made from silicon, oxygen, carbon, and hydrogen. They are known for their flexibility, durability, and resistance to extreme temperatures and environmental conditions. Commonly used in sealants, adhesives, lubricants, and insulation, silicones are essential in various industries, including construction, automotive, electronics, and healthcare.

Silicone sealant

Discover the versatility and reliability of our premium silicone sealants at Skeels Direct. Perfect for a wide range of applications, our silicone sealants are designed to provide long-lasting, watertight seals that withstand the test of time. Whether you're tackling a home improvement project, engaging in professional construction, or simply need a reliable sealant for everyday repairs, our selection has you covered.

Our silicone sealants are ideal for use in kitchens, bathrooms, and other areas prone to moisture, offering excellent resistance to mould and mildew. They adhere to a variety of surfaces, including glass, metal, ceramic, and plastic, ensuring a strong bond and a smooth finish every time. With superior flexibility, they accommodate movement and expansion, making them perfect for both indoor and outdoor use.

Choose from a range of colours and formulations to suit your specific needs, whether you're sealing windows, doors, or plumbing fixtures. Our products are easy to apply, with fast curing times that allow you to complete your projects efficiently. Trust in the durability and performance of our silicone sealants to deliver professional results with every use.

At Skeels Direct, we are committed to providing high-quality products that meet the demands of both DIY enthusiasts and professionals. Explore our collection today and find the perfect silicone sealant to enhance the durability and appearance of your projects. With our competitive prices and exceptional customer service, achieving a flawless finish has never been easier.

Silicone adhesive

Experience the versatility of our silicone adhesive at Skeels Direct. Perfect for a wide range of applications, this adhesive offers strong, reliable bonding for various surfaces. Whether you're working on a DIY project, repairing household items, or tackling professional tasks, our silicone adhesive ensures durability and flexibility. It's resistant to moisture, temperature changes, and ageing, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor use. Trust in the quality and performance of our silicone adhesive to meet your needs efficiently.

Silicone caulk

Skeels Direct offers a wide range of silicone caulk to meet your sealing needs. Our silicone caulk is perfect for various applications, providing a durable and flexible seal. Whether you're working on a bathroom, kitchen, or outdoor project, our silicone caulk ensures a watertight and long-lasting finish. Choose from our selection of silicone caulk to find the right fit for your project. If you have any questions about our silicone caulk or need assistance, feel free to contact us. Our team is here to help you find the best silicone caulk for your specific requirements. Trust Skeels Direct for all your silicone caulk needs.

Benefits of Silicone

• Durability: Silicone is resistant to weathering, moisture, and UV rays, making it ideal for long-lasting applications.
• Flexibility: It remains flexible over a wide temperature range, which helps in sealing and bonding applications.
• Waterproof: Provides excellent waterproofing properties, essential for sealing and protecting surfaces.
• Temperature Resistance: Can withstand extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, without degrading.
• Non-Toxic: Safe for use in environments where human contact is possible, such as kitchens and bathrooms.
• Adhesion: Offers strong adhesion to a variety of surfaces, including glass, metal, and plastic.
• Mould and Mildew Resistant: Inhibits the growth of mould and mildew, maintaining cleanliness and hygiene.
• Versatility: Suitable for a wide range of applications, from construction to household repairs.

What are the common uses of silicone in everyday products?

Silicone is a versatile material used in a wide range of everyday products due to its durability, flexibility, and resistance to extreme temperatures. In the kitchen, silicone is commonly found in bakeware, cooking utensils, and food storage containers because it is non-toxic and can withstand high heat. In personal care, silicone is used in products like shampoos, conditioners, and skincare items to provide smoothness and moisture retention.

In electronics, silicone is used as a sealant and insulator, protecting components from moisture and dust. It is also found in phone cases and keyboard covers due to its shock-absorbing properties. In the automotive industry, silicone is used in gaskets, hoses, and seals, providing resistance to oil and temperature fluctuations.

In the medical field, silicone is used in prosthetics, implants, and tubing because it is biocompatible and easy to sterilise. Additionally, silicone is used in household items such as sealants for windows and doors, waterproofing sprays, and lubricants. Its versatility and safety make silicone a popular choice in many everyday applications.

Is silicone safe for food contact and cooking applications?

Yes, silicone is generally considered safe for food contact and cooking applications. Silicone is a synthetic rubber that is non-toxic, heat-resistant, and flexible, making it an ideal material for kitchenware. It can withstand temperatures ranging from -40°F to 446°F (-40°C to 230°C), which means it can be used in the oven, microwave, freezer, and dishwasher without degrading or releasing harmful chemicals.

Food-grade silicone is specifically designed to meet safety standards for food contact, ensuring that it does not leach harmful substances into food. It is free from BPA, phthalates, and other toxic materials commonly found in some plastics. This makes it a popular choice for baking mats, spatulas, moulds, and other kitchen tools.

However, it's important to ensure that the silicone products you use are labelled as food-grade and come from reputable manufacturers. Poor-quality silicone may contain fillers that could compromise its safety. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for use and care to maintain the integrity and safety of your silicone kitchenware. If you notice any signs of wear or damage, it's best to replace the item to ensure continued safety in your cooking and food preparation.

How do you properly clean and maintain silicone products?

To properly clean and maintain silicone products, start by rinsing them with warm water to remove any surface debris. Use a mild dish soap and a soft sponge or cloth to gently scrub the silicone, ensuring you reach all crevices. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scouring pads, as these can damage the silicone. For stubborn stains or odours, create a paste with baking soda and water, apply it to the affected area, and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing thoroughly.

After cleaning, ensure the silicone is completely dry before storing it to prevent mould or mildew growth. If the silicone product is dishwasher-safe, you can place it on the top rack for a more thorough clean. Regularly inspect your silicone items for any signs of wear or damage, such as tears or cracks, and replace them if necessary to ensure optimal performance.

For long-term maintenance, avoid exposing silicone products to direct sunlight or extreme temperatures, as these can cause the material to degrade over time. Store silicone items in a cool, dry place, and avoid stacking heavy objects on top of them to maintain their shape. By following these steps, you can extend the lifespan of your silicone products and keep them in excellent condition.

What is the difference between silicone and rubber?

Silicone and rubber are both flexible, durable materials commonly used in various applications, but they have distinct differences. Silicone is a synthetic polymer made from silicon, oxygen, carbon, and hydrogen. It is known for its excellent heat resistance, flexibility, and non-reactive properties, making it ideal for applications involving high temperatures, such as baking moulds, oven mitts, and automotive parts. Silicone is also resistant to UV light, ozone, and weathering, which makes it suitable for outdoor use.

Rubber, on the other hand, can be either natural or synthetic. Natural rubber is derived from the latex of rubber trees, while synthetic rubber is made from petroleum-based monomers. Rubber is known for its elasticity, abrasion resistance, and waterproof properties. It is commonly used in products like tyres, gaskets, seals, and hoses. However, rubber is less resistant to heat and UV exposure compared to silicone, which can lead to degradation over time when exposed to harsh conditions.

In summary, the choice between silicone and rubber depends on the specific requirements of the application, such as temperature resistance, flexibility, and environmental exposure. Silicone is preferred for high-temperature and outdoor applications, while rubber is often chosen for its elasticity and durability in general-purpose uses.