Choosing the Right Adhesive & Sealant
At County Building Supplies, our branch teams help trade professionals, builders and DIY customers choose the right adhesive or sealant every day. Whether you're fixing skirting boards, sealing a shower, installing worktops or carrying out repairs, choosing the correct product helps ensure a strong, long-lasting finish. If you're unsure which product is best, we're always happy to offer advice.
Grab Adhesive or Sealant?
One of the most common questions we receive is whether a grab adhesive or a sealant is the right choice. While they may look similar, they're designed for different jobs.
- Grab adhesives are designed to bond materials together, making them ideal for skirting boards, timber, plasterboard, panels and many general construction applications.
- Sealants are used to fill joints and gaps, helping prevent water, air and dust from passing through around windows, doors, kitchens and bathrooms.
- Hybrid adhesive sealants combine strong bonding with flexibility, making them suitable for a wide range of interior and exterior applications.
Choosing the Right Product
Different projects require different products. For bathroom and kitchen installations, sanitary silicone provides a waterproof, mould-resistant seal. Decorators' caulk is ideal for filling gaps before painting, while grab adhesives are often chosen for fixing skirting boards, architraves and other building materials without the need for visible fixings.
Interior or Exterior Use?
If your project will be exposed to rain, changing temperatures or UV light, it's important to choose an adhesive or sealant that's suitable for external use. Our team can help you select the right product based on the materials you're bonding and the conditions it will be exposed to.
Need Advice?
If you're not sure which adhesive or sealant is right for your project, visit your local County Building Supplies branch or contact our team. Whether you're completing a bathroom renovation, installing flooring or tackling a DIY repair, we'll help you choose the right product before you buy.
Frequently Asked Questions – Adhesives & Sealants
What's the difference between an adhesive and a sealant?
Adhesives are designed to bond materials together, while sealants are used to fill joints and gaps to help prevent water, air or dust from passing through. Some modern hybrid products combine both strong bonding and flexible sealing.
Should I use grab adhesive or screws?
Grab adhesive is ideal for many fixing applications where a clean finish is required or where mechanical fixings aren't practical. Depending on the application and the weight being supported, screws or other fixings may still be required alongside adhesive.
Which sealant is best for bathrooms and kitchens?
Sanitary silicone is usually the best choice for bathrooms and kitchens because it's waterproof and formulated to resist mould growth in high-moisture environments.
Can adhesives and sealants be used outdoors?
Yes, provided they're designed for external use. Exterior-grade adhesives and sealants are formulated to withstand rain, UV exposure and changing temperatures. Always check the manufacturer's guidance before use.
Can I paint over sealant?
Decorator's caulk can usually be painted once fully dry, making it ideal for filling gaps around skirting boards, architraves and internal trim. Standard silicone sealants generally cannot be painted.
How long does adhesive or sealant take to cure?
Curing times vary depending on the product, temperature and humidity. Some grab adhesives provide a strong initial hold, while silicones and specialist adhesives may require 24 hours or longer to fully cure. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Do you stock adhesives and sealants for trade and DIY customers?
Yes. We supply a wide range of adhesives, sealants and fillers for both trade professionals and DIY customers. If you're unsure which product is suitable for your project, our experienced branch teams will be happy to recommend the most appropriate option.