If you're in the process of choosing a stand-out roof sealant, you're going to be faced with a plethora of products to choose from - made using different materials and laying claim to unique features. But in reality, there are just a few key benefits that you really need to consider before you go ahead and buy...

Roof sealants are special adhesive coatings used to create a tough, leak-covering-layer over various elements of your roof - such as chimneys, flashing, gaps and cracks - as well as your roof surface more broadly. A good roofing sealant acts as a shielding barrier or form of sealing repair, but a great roofing sealant ensures that your roof stays protected right now and in years to come.

In our latest blog, Roof Giant will guide you through the cornerstones of quality roofing sealants and the key roof sealant products that we think you should stick to, whether you're a homeowner or a roofing professional.

What Makes A Great Roof Sealant?

  • Durability - Spending a little more on a great roof sealant will ensure the longevity and quality of the finished seal, particularly when put to the test in bad weather and harsh outdoor conditions. A great sealant can last anywhere from 10 to 20 years, depending on what's outlined in the product's manufacturer information.
  • Waterproof Properties - On average, rain falls once in every three days in the UK, putting your roof structure, attics and ceilings at considerable risk, unless you opt for premium quality roofing products. It's very hard to guarantee 100% waterproofing on a roof, but using a high grade sealant or caulk with effective water resistance properties will give you more than a fighting chance.
  • Ease Of Use - Whether you're a homeowner or a roofing professional, straightforward application is always going to be a vital asset when choosing a new roof sealant. Manufacturer directions will vary from product to product, but knowing which sealant will be best for the job at hand is a great place to start. Caulk guns will be perfect for precise work and smaller jobs whereas paint sealers allow for larger surface area coverage.
  • UV Resistance - Sun damage is a roofer's nemesis, rivalling that of water. Your roof will bear the brunt of harsh UV rays and after protracted exposure, aspects of your roof surface will start to weaken, deteriorate or even become vulnerable to thermal shock. A roof sealant that offers impressive UV credentials will act as a shield against harsh sunlight, reflecting the harmful rays away from your roof and cooling your home down at the same time.

What Are The Best Roofing Sealants Out There?

Firestone Easy Sealant

This quick and simple to use Easy Sealant from Firestone is great for creating a strong, long-lasting, waterproof bond between EPDM and a wide range of roof substrates. Based on a modified silicone polymer that's fast curing, elastic and flexible upon application.

Bond It Rain-Mate All Weather Sealant

A general purpose sealant with brilliant weatherproof properties. This all-weather sealant provides excellent adhesion even when damp and is permanently flexible when in use. As well as being suitable for use on a wide range of standard substrates, the rubber-based composition makes Rain-Mate compatible with bitumen, asphalt and roofing felt - it's also ideal for roofing repairs on these surfaces too.

ARBO Lead Seal Silicone Sealant

This standard grey one part neutral cure silicone sealant is ideal for use on all your lead sheeting, guttering and other sensitive metals, curing to create a durable and watertight bond with UV resistance. Made with a solvent-free composition to prevent your lead roofing materials from corrosion, this versatile sealant can also be used for pointing into brickwork, masonry and other stonework.

CrylicRoof Bitumen Instant Waterproof Roof Sealant

A low odour, low VOC, solvent-based acrylic resin system for use when waterproofing a wide range of roof types and roofing substrates. Providing instant all-weather waterproof protection, CrylicRoof Bitumen Roof Sealant is ready to use straight from the can, delivering optimal flexibility and durability when in place.

Soudal Soudaflex 40FC Sealant & Adhesive

If excellent chemical and UV radiation resistance is top of your roof sealant requirements, Soudaflex is the one for you. Fast curing and very easy to apply, this high quality one-component construction joint and adhesive sealant is permanently elastic after curing and based on a versatile and durable polyurethane composition.

Skyguard Bond & Seal Mastic

One of our bestselling sealants, Skyguard Bond & Seal Mastic is a multi-purpose product for sealing EPDM around the perimeter of a roof and boasts an incredible 50+ year life expectancy. Quick and easy to install and particularly effective when used in conjunction with Skyguard's EPDM Roof Kits.