Mastic sealant
Mastic is commonly used on construction projects as an adhesive and sealant. It is a popular choice where one surface needs to be adhered to another in a durable bond, or where the area needs to be protected.
The most common types of material that mastic sealant can be adhered to include timber, aluminium, steel, marble, glass and various types of board, although it can be used on nearly all materials.
Examples of uses for mastic sealant include:
- Bonding ceiling, wall and floor tiles.
- Bonding plywood panels.
- As a joint-sealer for windows and doors.
- Sealing the area around bathtubs and other sanitary appliances.
- As a filler for cracks in masonry and concrete.
Mastic can be used outside because of its water-resistant, temperature-resistant and UV-resistant properties. It is also capable of resisting corrosion which makes it suitable for use with metals.
Although mastic will usually resist some applied pressure, it is not flexible enough to accommodate large movements. Due to its viscosity, it is best applied to thick rather than thinner areas of application, such as large gaps and cracks. Before applying mastic, the area may not require priming, but it should be clean and dry. It is best applied by using a caulking gun.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Inspiring the next generation to fulfil an electrified future
Technical Manager at ECA on the importance of engagement between industry and education.
Repairing historic stone and slate roofs
The need for a code of practice and technical advice note.
Environmental compliance; a checklist for 2026
Legislative changes, policy shifts, phased rollouts, and compliance updates to be aware of.
UKCW London to tackle sector’s most pressing issues
AI and skills development, ecology and the environment, policy and planning and more.
Managing building safety risks
Across an existing residential portfolio; a client's perspective.
ECA support for Gate Safe’s Safe School Gates Campaign.
Core construction skills explained
Preparing for a career in construction.
Retrofitting for resilience with the Leicester Resilience Hub
Community-serving facilities, enhanced as support and essential services for climate-related disruptions.
Some of the articles relating to water, here to browse. Any missing?
Recognisable Gothic characters, designed to dramatically spout water away from buildings.
A case study and a warning to would-be developers
Creating four dwellings... after half a century of doing this job, why, oh why, is it so difficult?
Reform of the fire engineering profession
Fire Engineers Advisory Panel: Authoritative Statement, reactions and next steps.
Restoration and renewal of the Palace of Westminster
A complex project of cultural significance from full decant to EMI, opportunities and a potential a way forward.
Apprenticeships and the responsibility we share
Perspectives from the CIOB President as National Apprentice Week comes to a close.
The first line of defence against rain, wind and snow.
Building Safety recap January, 2026
What we missed at the end of last year, and at the start of this.





















