Gas-tight sealable Silos are engineered to achieve a complete seal during fumigation, ensuring effective insect control. For decades, caulked silicone sealant has been the go-to solution for sealing. Yet it presents significant drawbacks: excessive waste, messy application, and inconsistent long-term performance.
The better alternative? Silo sealing tapes.
Are Tapes Better Than Silicone for Sealing Silos?
Yes. Tapes are better than silicone sealants for Silo construction because they provide:
- Consistent application with no waste
- Faster installation time
- Long-term durability against UV, moisture, and temperature extremes
- Cleaner, neater seams without messy squeeze-out
- Cleaner and easier to work with
Unlike silicone, which can crack, shrink and attract dirt, tapes deliver a uniform, airtight seal that lasts.
Why Silicone Sealants Fall Short in Silo Applications
Silicone has been widely used, but it’s not ideal for Silos:
- Hard to control how much is applied → leads to overuse or gaps
- Excess squeezes out → waste and messy finish
- Can shrink and crack over time → leaks form
- Slower to apply → higher labour costs
For Silo manufacturers aiming for quality and efficiency, this method is becoming one of the past.
The Advantages of Using Silo Sealing Tapes
Sealant tapes are designed for steel Silo joints. They ensure a perfect fit every time.
Benefits of Sealing Tapes:
- No wastage – Pre-formed thickness means zero guesswork.
- Faster installation – Saves labour time compared to silicone.
- Durable performance – Resistant to UV, weather, and extreme temperatures.
- Adaptability – Works on both thick steel joints and PVC viewing panels.
In short: tapes provide a precise, long-lasting and professional looking seal where silicone fails.
Which Tape Is Best for Silo Sealing?
The choice depends on the material thickness and environment.
Recommended Tapes from Foam Sealant:
- V710 Series Tape - General-purpose sealing for steel silos. Bonds strongly even on curved or irregular joints.
- FS470 Tape - Heavy-duty tape for thicker steel silo panels and slide seals. Withstands pressure, vibration, and stress.
- EPDM Tape - Best for seals exposed to the elements. UV and weather-resistant, perfect for the harsh Australian climate.
- Neoprene Tape - Flexible, chemical-resistant, and suitable for both PVC sight glass and steel silo applications.
Feature | Silicone Sealant | Sealant Tapes |
Application control | Hard to control, often messy | Pre-formed, precise thickness |
Waste | High (excess squeeze-out) | Low to none |
Durability | Can shrink, crack, peel | Resistant to UV, weather, and temperature |
Speed of installation | Slower, more labour required | Faster, easier to apply |
Long-term results | Inconsistent, attracts dirt | Reliable, airtight |
FAQs: Silo Sealing Solutions
Q: What is the best way to seal a grain Silo?
A: The best way to seal a grain Silo is with specialised sealing tapes (such as V710 Series, FS470, EPDM, or Neoprene), which provide airtight results without waste.
Q: Can tapes replace silicone sealant in Silo construction?
A: Yes. While silicone cannot be entirely replaced in all applications, tapes are a superior alternative to silicone in many areas. They’re easier to apply, last longer, and eliminate material waste.
Q: Which tape is best for outdoor silo sealing?
A: Depending on what areas of the silo you are needing to seal there are two options; EPDM FS690 Series tape is the best choice for weather and UV resistance and FS870 Series and FS470 Series are best for open and close applications.
Upgrade Your Silo Sealing with Foam Sealant Tapes
Every Silo joint matters when it comes to keeping grain safe. By switching from silicone to Foam Sealant’s high-performance tapes including the V710 Series, FS470, EPDM, and Neoprene tapes manufacturers can ensure airtight sealing, reduce waste, and improve efficiency.
