With so many different sealants available, it can be difficult to keep track of which sealants are best suited for different DIY related tasks. The following list provides an overview of the top 15 most common sealant types and the DIY tasks for which they are best suited.

1. Low Modulus Acetoxy ( LMA) Silicone Sealants are the cost effective "all-rounders", they are suitable for a wide variety of general building, sanitary (when they contain a fungicide), glazing interior and exterior applications and adhere to many common building material.
2. Low Modulus Neutral (LMN) Silicone Sealants are the best option for the sealing of UPVC Window or Door Frames (exterior). Offers better adhesion, accommodates more movement and is generally longer lasting than LMA's.
3. High Modulus Acetoxy Silicone Sealants are most commonly used for kitchen and sanitary applications (ensure the sealant contains a fungicide).
4. Food Grade Silicone Sealants are designed for use in areas where food contact may occur including contact with raw meat. Ensure the sealant is FDA Certified.
5. High Temperature Silicone Sealants are commonly used as gasket sealants designed for forming gasket joints. They can also be used to seal and bond oven doors.
6. Aquarium Sealants are non-toxic to fish and reptiles and therefore ideal for sealing aquariums and terrariums.
7. Acrylic Sealants are the economical, paintable alternative to silicones. However the external application of this form of sealant is very much ruled by the weather, conditions must by dry and preferably warm when applying. They also do not offer the same flexibility as a silicone.
8. Intumescent Sealants are designed for joints where a fire retardant seal is required to prevent the passage of smoke and vapours. For exterior use, use a Fire Retardant Silicone.
9. MS Polymer Sealants are best used as an adhesive or sealant on surfaces that experience frequent vibration or strain. They are also ideal for gluing panels, skirting boards, windows, mirrors and insulation materials.
10. Polysulphide Sealants are designed to seal joints subject to movement where a tough, flexible, watertight seal is required. They offer the best option for expansion joints but it is important to note that they are difficult to tool.
11. Polyurethane Sealants are most commonly used for boat, car, caravan and mobile home applications. Some Low Modulus Polyurethane Sealants are also safe to use in aquariums and terrariums.
12. Roof and Gutter Sealants are rubberised sealants specially developed for repairing leaking gutters, downpipes and flashings. They can also be used for bedding roof sheets and felts.
13. RTV Silicone Sealants are mainly use for vehicle maintenance as they are ideal for bonding metal, glass, vinyl, leather, rubber and plastics.
14. All Weather Sealants can be applied in wet weather and damp conditions ideal for emergency repairs.
15. Self Cleaning Glass Sealant specified for use with self cleaning glass systems such as Pilkington Activ Glass these are Zwaluw Hybriseal 2PS, Dow Corning 757 and Soudal SMX 505.

For further information on the sealants listed above, as well as related safety information and other informative articles, be sure to head over to the Ideal Sealants website.