I was just wondering, how much time should I give my silicone time to cure before I test my aquarium for leaks? I just sealed my tank last night around 9pm...so I was thinking maybe Saterday? Sound good?
Silicone Curing?
- Thread starter Matt101905
- Start date
48 hours should be plenty. If you are using the pure. I would question the reliability of a silicone that didn't cure in 48 hours.
Of course, I'm not going to contradict the directions on the tube...
Of course, I'm not going to contradict the directions on the tube...
Personally, I'd use the directions +24 hours just be safe. For most silicone, that's 24 hours(directions) + extra 24 hours = 48 hours total.
Well I've heard that if the silicone is still smelling that it's not cured yet. It still smells pretty strong, but I have it in my bathroom upstairs but there is a little exhaust fan in there. The tube doesn't say anything about how long to take to cure but I'm sure the packaging it came in does. I'll dig through the trash and try to find it. The silicone is DAP Aquarium 100% Silicone Clear. I'm glad I got the right stuff this time...last time I got Silicone II and sealed my tank with that...then I had to scrap it off after it cured haha. Anyways thanks guys...there is a chance of snow tonight and tomorrow morning so I'm not going to have much fun taking my aquarium outside and checking for leaks. Thanks everybody!
It depends on the silicon you buy. True 100% PURE silicone needs more than 24 hours to set and another couple of days to cure. Quick setting that has a vinegar smell contains arsenic - hence the smell, causes it to set and cure faster. It will set in a couple of hours and cure in a day or two. You need to read the label carefully. If it has the pungent odor, do not use until it dissipates.
hmm...you know thats a pretty good idea! I believe I'll try that. Thanks bluekrissyspike.
