The 9 Best Aquarium Silicones

Reviews

Aqueon Silicone Aquarium Sealant – Overall Winner

 

 

The Aqueon Silicone Aquarium Sealant offers several advantages. It is inexpensive and available in a size suitable for minor operations to reduce waste. The product functions as advertised and cures in 48 hours.

It is simple to manipulate and features a closure that can prolong its usable life. It is available in both clear and black, depending on the intended application. Unfortunately, there are quality control difficulties with the packing.

The product is effective on glass but ineffective on acrylic. This eliminates the possibility for customized installations. However, only in certain instances is it a deal-breaker. Otherwise, the sealant performs admirably.

Pros

• Convenient size
• Reasonably priced
• Compatible with both freshwater and saltwater

Cons

• Only suitable for glass

 

Aquarium Silicone Sealant in Clear ASI – Best Value

 

 

If you have a large project or are creating a bespoke tank, the ASI Clear Aquarium Silicone Sealant is the most cost-effective aquarium silicone.

With the 10-ounce tube, you will have sufficient sealant to treat a big tank or many tanks. It features a large tube for reaching into tight spots without compromising the bead line. It also comes in clear and black.

Pros

• Suitable for use in fresh or salt water
• Excellent consistency
• Long point for simple application

Cons

• Long curing period of up to 10 days, based on relative humidity
• Strong smell

 

All-Purpose Adhesive Sealant by Dap – Premium Option

 

 

Those who have worked in the construction sector or completed do-it-yourself projects are probably familiar with this manufacturer. Its reputation in that industry is sometimes indicative of the user’s shortcomings.

As an aquarium silicone, it meets all requirements. It is labeled for this usage, which we welcome because it distinguishes it from the company’s other items.

In addition to being food-safe for a number of crafts, this sealer also adheres to acrylic. The fact that it is a silicone that can only be used once places it squarely in the category of deal-breakers.

Pros

• Aquarium safe
• 100-percent silicone
• All-purpose product

Cons

• Unique usage only
• Unpleasant odor

 

Clear silicone waterproof sealant from Loctite

 

 

The producers of Loctite Clear Silicone Waterproof Sealant carry out their duties correctly. Yes, this is a product for fish tanks.

Nonetheless, it is also suitable for a variety of other purposes; however, it is labeled as aquarium-safe to avoid misunderstanding. Due to a lack of tensile strength, it cannot be utilized for tanks larger than 30 gallons.

As a result of the item’s adaptability, you will receive excellent value for your money. Unfortunately, the packaging is inadequate, making the second usage dubious.

Pros

• Utilizes a multitude of substances
• Reasonable pricing
• Suitable size

Cons

• Only clear choice
• Use only in aquariums up to 30 gallons
• Poor packaging

 

Aquascape Silicone Sealant in Black

 

 

The name of Aquascape Black Silicone Sealant provides all pertinent information. This item is available in two sizes, 4.7 ounces and 10.1 ounces.

Both are excessive for modest tasks. There are both clear and black options. There are two caps, which we enjoyed for maximizing its storage potential between usage.

On the negative, the two available sizes are too large for a tiny job, resulting in excessive product waste. It is equipped with a second cap, which we loved.

Pros

• Separate applicator cap
• Aquarium safe

Cons

• Available sizes contribute to waste
• Expensive

 

Silicone Sealant for MarineLand Aquariums

 

 

Only the MarineLand Aquarium Silicone Sealant came in a 1-ounce tube. If you are patching a little leak, this is quite convenient.

It only comes in clear, which is unfortunate if you require a different color. The product performed as advertised, but at a high cost for being offered in this size.

Unfortunately, only clear silicone is available, which is unfortunate if the sealant is an integral component of the design. The product’s cap and consistency are not ideal. If handled poorly, you will certainly end up with a mess on your hands.

Pros

• Smaller size available

Cons

• Highly costly
• Only visible hue
• Not user-friendly

Buyer's Guide

Let’s start off by defining silicone. Silicon dioxide is essentially a chemical molecule or polymer composed of silicon and oxygen.

Its tensile strength is a result of the inclusion of silica. Several factors make this material an ideal option for fish tank construction. Silicone is one of the few chemicals capable of forming long-lasting connections with glass. The seals are also waterproof.

Once aquarium silicone has cured, it dries transparent. This makes it aesthetically pleasant for creating an aquatic scene that appears natural.

However, it is also available in many hues for comparable applications. Understand that not all items are appropriate for aquarium usage. Sealants used for reasons other than plumbing may contain chemicals that are toxic to fish and vegetation.

Consider the following while purchasing aquarium silicone:

• Aquarium safe
• Healing time
• Simplicity of usage

Aquarium Safe

This element may seem obvious, but it’s worth discussing anyway. Other than pet stores, you may find silicone at a variety of retail establishments.

Some may even be designated as waterproof for use in the bathroom. Products not intended for aquarium usage may contain chemicals such as fungicides. The danger is that they may release fish-toxic compounds into the water.

Remember that the aquarium is the environment for your fish. You’re in control. Therefore, you must guarantee that nothing possibly hazardous enters the water. In fact, this is why you have an aquarium filter to keep it clean and a siphon to periodically empty the gravel of detritus.

Thankfully, aquarium-safe silicone is readily available. Products designed for ponds are also acceptable. Essentially, a pond is a huge aquarium, generally containing goldfish or koi. Ensure you purchase one that is labeled for both purposes.

Curing Time

This type of sealant needs time to cure and harden while preserving a degree of elasticity. Yes, it is a hassle to empty the aquarium, prepare a new home for the fish, and restart the system.

Depending on the formulation, it might take anywhere from 24 hours and several days. We highly advise you to wait till the suggested time.

Don’t hurry it. If your aquarium does not have the right seal, it may leak.

Simplicity of Use

This consideration is comprehensive. First, consider how much silicone you will need for the project. It is essential while selecting the proper size.

How Much Is Required?

If there is only a minor leak, you don’t need 10 ounces of the substance. There is a difference in cost, but there is also waste. Silicone is probably not an everyday material. It is possible that the tube may dry out before you need it again.

Consider the Application

Consider the applicator next. Silicone is a messy material. There is no way to circumvent it. We admire manufacturers’ efforts to make the best of the situation.

The good thing is that it does not dry instantly, so you have time to fix it. This is a positive aspect of the curing time. It provides time for work. We recommend reading the tiny print on specifications such as drying time and shelf life.

One-time versus Multiple-use

Also, determine if the product is intended for a single use or several uses. This feature contributes directly to usability.

Consider that the sealant will expand as a result of temperature variations. If you store it in the garage, it may become useless. Due to this variation, we recommend purchasing aquarium silicone in the proper size for the purpose.

The Odor Problem

Additionally, we must confront the elephant in the room. Some silicone products are more offensive than others. Manufacturers attempt to make it more palatable. Rest confident that it will not endure.

Typically, it is only evident when applied. If it truly bothers you, perform the task outside to eliminate the problem. In addition, greater lighting might help you apply it properly. Create lemonade from lemons.

Colors

Typically, aquarium sealants are only available in transparent. Numerous individuals utilize it for projects such as vivariums. Consequently, it is also available in several hues, most often black.

It is great for producing appealing borders and distinct lines for bespoke projects. However, this also necessitates caution in its implementation.

Using a word other than clear draws attention to your work. Just saying.

Using Aquarium Sealant

While the box and applicator appear user-friendly, the product’s application is more complex. The reality is that you must start from scratch. We are discussing leaks.

Don’t scrimp on it. Remember the procedure, including emptying the tank and relocating your fish… Here are four suggestions on how to use aquarium sealant:

• Make things simple for yourself. Perform the task correctly from the beginning, even if it appears tedious. Fortunately, the old sealant may be readily removed with a razor blade. The best technique to ensure that the fresh layer will attach is to have a clean surface. This is one of the most common complaints purchasers have about aquarium silicone. Unfortunately, this is due to user mistake.
• After removing the previous debris, wipe the surface clean. The goal is for the silicone to adhere to the sealant and not any sealant residue on the glass. When lining seams and aligning it, keep in mind that you have more time than when using Super Glue. We recommend avoiding silicone contact as much as possible.
• Our second suggestion includes curing time. The sealant is not adhesive. Therefore, you will observe this recommended wait time. The time depends on the product’s composition. Almost certainly, you will have to wait at least one day. We always give it an additional day or two, given its function. Test it by touching it.
• It should have a firm, non-sticky texture. Consider that curing will take longer if the relative humidity is high. Additionally, application thickness might alter drying time. We recommend using a razor to smooth the bead and accelerate the curing process.

Conclusion

The Aqueon Silicone Aquarium Sealant is, in our view, the most economical silicone aquarium sealant. The pricing is reasonable for a size suitable for small projects.

It is simple to use and the appropriate size for repairing a small leak. It is incredibly simple to use and has no unwanted odor. It’s a simple and inexpensive remedy. The most essential thing is to do it correctly. Utilize the proper product. Apply it correctly. Give it time.

BestForPets (bestforpets.org) would like to thank our visitors for visiting our website to learn about and research the best aquarium silicones. We hope that you have selected a silicone product that meets your demands and is of high quality.