Silicone is one of the best cost-effective water repellent materials ever known. There are two types of products that ELKAY has to offer : (a) water-based, and (b) solvent-based.
Water-based compound LK-AQUASEAL 40 is a sodium-potassium methyl siliconate (40% solids) that has to be diluted to 3 to 5% before applying by brush / spray gun to a freshly painted exterior concrete / cement surface. The curing time is 24 hours. The siliconate molecule reorients itself on the surface, and provides excellent water repellence so that the surface is protected from rain water. The shelf life of this product is 1 year
Solvent-based product, LK-SEAL 100 is to be diluted 1: 7 with thinner or solvent before applying on a freshly painted, dry surface. The curing time is 1 hour. The silicone cross-links on the surface forming a film to protect the surface from rain- water, excessively humid & sultry conditions, corrosive sea breeze, etc. The shelf life of this product is 6-months, but the packing once opened, must be consumed the same day.
Both the products are found to be very effective on asbestos sheets as well
The performance of solvent-based product is more durable than the water-based product.