Seal it up! Interior vs. Exterior Sealants

Sealants are a contractor or painter's secret weapon when it comes to protecting the property from future wear and tear. Whether it's safeguarding against the elements or ensuring airtight spaces, sealants play a crucial role in preserving the integrity of the property. However, understanding the differences between exterior and interior sealants is essential for making informed decisions. In this blog, we'll dive into the distinctions between these two types of sealants and help you determine when to use each for optimal results.

 

Exterior Sealants: Shielding Against the Elements

Purpose and Functionality

Exterior sealants are designed to provide a robust defense against weather conditions, moisture, UV rays, and temperature fluctuations. They are formulated to withstand the harsh outdoor environment, making them ideal for sealing gaps, cracks, and joints in materials such as wood, concrete, brick, and metal. The primary goal of exterior sealants is to create a watertight and weather-resistant barrier, protecting the property from water infiltration, rot, and structural damage.

Materials and Durability

Exterior sealants are formulated with high-performance ingredients that can withstand exposure to sunlight, rain, and extreme temperatures. They are typically more durable and resilient than interior sealants, ensuring long-lasting protection against outdoor elements. The formulations often include UV inhibitors and additives that prevent cracking, fading, and degradation over time.

Application Areas

Common applications for exterior sealants include sealing gaps around windows, doors, siding, and roof elements. Some sealants can be colored to match the exterior color. They are also used to seal joints in outdoor structures like decks, porches, and outdoor kitchens. Additionally, exterior sealants are essential for protecting the properties' foundation from water damage, as they can prevent moisture infiltration that might lead to cracks and structural issues.

 

Interior Sealants: Enhancing Indoor Comfort For Your Client

Air Quality and Energy Efficiency

Interior sealants are primarily used to improve indoor air quality, increase energy efficiency, and create a comfortable living environment. They are formulated to create airtight seals, preventing drafts, air leakage, and heat transfer. By sealing gaps and cracks around windows, doors, and electrical outlets, interior sealants contribute to reduced energy consumption and lower utility bills.

Materials and Formulation

Interior sealants are designed with a focus on low VOC (volatile organic compounds) content, as they are used indoors where air quality is a concern. They often have a lower odor and are safe for use in occupied spaces. While they might not be as weather-resistant as exterior sealants, they excel at providing an airtight seal that improves the insulation and comfort of the home. However, some of the newer sealants are water-proof. So that they can protect the interior of the property from leaking.

Application Areas

Typical applications for interior sealants include sealing gaps around window frames, baseboards, crown molding, and other interior trim elements. They are also used to seal joints in areas like bathrooms and kitchens, where moisture resistance is important. Additionally, interior sealants can help block sound transmission, creating quieter indoor spaces.

 

Choosing the Right Sealant for Your Needs

When deciding between exterior and interior sealants, consider the specific requirements of your project. If you're dealing with gaps and joints exposed to the outdoor environment, such as windows or outdoor structures, exterior sealants are the right choice. On the other hand, if you're focused on improving indoor air quality, energy efficiency, and sealing gaps within the living spaces of the property, interior sealants are the way to go.


Exterior and interior sealants each have their unique purposes and benefits. While exterior sealants shield against outdoor elements, interior sealants enhance indoor comfort and energy efficiency. By understanding the distinctions between these two types of sealants, you can confidently choose the right solution for the properties' improvement, ensuring that the property remains well-protected and comfortable for years to come.