For tiled wet areas, bathrooms, laundries, and kitchens where mould and mildew are constant risks, Bostik 6S Silicone Sealant provides a flexible, non-slumping seal. Formulated with an active fungicide, this neutral-cure silicone prevents fungal growth on joints around ceramic tiles, shower screens, kitchen benchtops, and splashback edges, while avoiding the harsh odours of acid-cure sealants in confined spaces.
Fungicidal protection and neutral-cure adhesion
Bostik 6S contains an additive that inhibits mould and mildew growth, keeping tile grout joints, shower surrounds, and bath edges clean. Because it is a neutral-curing system, it does not release highly corrosive acidic vapours, making it safer to use on sensitive substrates like powder-coated metal framing and fiberglass spa units. The thixotropic compound maintains a zero-slump profile (Nil sag to BS 5889) when applied in vertical construction joints or overhead corners. It cures by absorbing atmospheric moisture to form a durable, flexible seal that carries the NZFSA – C82 standard for use near food areas like splashbacks and countertops.
Numbers that matter
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±25% dynamic movement (ASTM C920): Absorbs the expansion and contraction of tile joints, benchtop-to-wall junctions, and shower screens without tearing or pulling away from the substrate.
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630% to 670% elongation at rupture (ASTM D412): High elasticity that tolerates severe joint movement without mechanical failure.
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8 to 10 minutes skin time (BS 5889): Fast initial skinning requires prompt tooling to ensure adequate wetting and a clean finish before the surface closes.
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7 days full cure (to 7mm depth): Cures progressively using atmospheric humidity; requires exposure to open air to achieve final strength.
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-50°C to 150°C service temperature: Withstands the thermal cycling of steaming hot showers and freezing cool rooms without cracking or hardening, though continuous exposure to high temperatures will degrade the polymer.
Where to use it
- Bathrooms, shower screens, and fiberglass spa units.
- Around the edges of kitchen benchtops and splashbacks.
- Cool rooms and refrigeration seal joints.
- Grout lines and ceramic tiles on walls and floors.
- Powder-coated metal frames and window surrounds.
Limitations
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Not for stone: Do not use on granite, marble, or porous stones, as staining may occur. Refer to the Bostik 5CLM data sheet and complete a stain test before using sealants on stone.
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Splashback backing: Not to be used on the back of splashbacks; refer to Bostik V 60 for adhesive backing.
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Underwater and below-grade: Not suitable for structural glazing, aquariums, below-grade applications, or continuous underwater immersion (such as swimming pools). For designs requiring extended water contact, contact Bostik Australia to confirm design details before starting.
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Mirror backing: Do not use to adhere mirrors.
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Unventilated spaces: Will not cure in totally confined spaces that lack access to atmospheric humidity.
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Non-paintable: Paint will not adhere to the silicone surface; complete all painting before sealing.
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Solvent sensitivity: Do not use Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA) to clean around uncured sealant, and avoid treating the sealant with solvents or harsh cleaning agents during the curing window to prevent discolouration.
Joint design and installation
To avoid joint failure, design joints to prevent three-sided adhesion. Use a closed-cell polyethylene backing rod that is 25% larger than the joint width to control depth and prevent bottom-surface bonding. The minimum acceptable joint depth is 6mm; for weather seals, the depth must be half the joint width.
Ensure all substrates are dry and free from frost, oil, dirt, and grease before extrusion. For non-porous, impervious substrates, clean the surface using a clean, frequently changed cloth with a suitable cleaner like Z Bond R-40 or Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA) via the two-wipe process. Tool the sealant firmly into the joint before it skins over (within 8 to 10 minutes) to improve substrate contact and ensure a flush finish.