Introduction
In today’s architectural landscape, particularly in luxury homes featuring expansive glass facades and cantilevered slabs, selecting the right materials for window and door systems is essential. At IKON Aluminium, we prioritize the use of structural silicone over neutral silicone due to the demanding requirements of modern designs. Among the top choices for structural silicone, we trust Sikasil® SG-20 S by Sika, a globally recognized brand in silicone adhesives. Let’s explore why structural silicone—especially this trusted product is critical for performance and longevity in contemporary homes.
What is Structural Silicone?
Structural silicone is a high-performance sealant specifically designed to offer superior strength, flexibility, and durability. Unlike neutral silicone, which is commonly used for basic sealing, structural silicone accommodates significant movement and stress within building structures. This makes it particularly suitable for modern homes with large glass facades and cantilevered elements. At IKON Aluminium, we prefer Sikasil® SG-20 S, a premium product that delivers exceptional results in demanding architectural applications.
Structural Silicone vs. Neutral Silicone
Several key differences set structural silicone apart from neutral silicone:
- Durability: Structural silicone, like Sikasil® SG-20 S, is engineered to withstand the constant expansion and contraction typical in modern buildings. This ensures that seals remain intact and provide long-term protection, even under harsh environmental conditions. Neutral silicone, while suitable for less demanding applications, may not offer the same level of performance.
- Flexibility and Expansion: One of the major benefits of structural silicone is its ability to handle substantial movement. This is critical in buildings with large glass surfaces, where stress and shifting occur regularly. In contrast, neutral silicone lacks this flexibility, increasing the risk of seal failure in such environments.
- Commitment to Quality: While structural silicone can be more expensive, the benefits far outweigh the cost. Sika’s Sikasil® SG-20 S, for example, may come at a premium, but its durability, performance, and long-term value make it a solid investment for high-end window and door systems. At IKON Aluminium, we believe that quality should never be compromised, and that’s why we choose materials that ensure our products meet the highest standards.
Real-World Benefits of Structural Silicone
Using structural silicone instead of neutral silicone brings tangible advantages to modern homes. Projects that have relied on neutral silicone often experience issues like cracking, peeling, and leaks within a few years. By opting for high-quality structural silicone, such as Sikasil® SG-20 S, IKON Aluminium avoids these problems, ensuring reliable, long-lasting performance even in the most challenging environments.
Why Structural Silicone Matters
At IKON Aluminium, our decision to use structural silicone is based on more than just industry standards it’s about delivering exceptional results. Products like Sikasil® SG-20 S offer unparalleled strength, UV resistance, and flexibility, ensuring that our windows and doors exceed expectations in both aesthetics and durability.
By choosing the best materials, we guarantee that luxury and performance go hand in hand, providing our clients with peace of mind and enduring quality.