Many people are curious about how long the flex seal lasts. Before you buy one, be sure you have basic knowledge and facts about it. Yes, it is a part of home improvement work, but is it worth spending money on? Are such claims real and true?
What Is Flex Seal?
Flex Seal is a product available in spray form. It is touted for its ability to cover cracks and holes efficiently and offer an instant solution to leaks. Unlike traditional sealants that come in rubber or solid forms, this liquid sealant is contained within a spray can, making it appear as a convenient fix for various issues.
As an RV owner, I have used Flex Seal multiple times to seal leaks in my vehicle’s roof and windows. The application process is straightforward, and the results have been impressive: They last several years without peeling or cracking.
However, the longevity can vary based on environmental conditions and application accuracy. It sounds like an ideal way to prove your home, right? The problem is, does such a thing work? With such a good-to-be-true claim, is it real, or is it only a scam?
Whereas the most common sealants come in the rubberized or dry form, this one comes in a liquid spray and is heavily marketed on TV. Because it is liquid, it is claimed to reach difficult spots easily.
Because it comes in spray form, it requires no special skill. You only need to spray, and your problem will go away—whether it is a hole, a leak, or anything else that can cause further issues. It would be easier if things were just that easy, but that’s not always the case.
How the Spray Works
Forget how long the flex seal lasts and get to know how this sealant works. According to the claim, you only need to spray a hole or a leak and let it dry. Since it is a rubberized liquid, it will get hard after it dries off, providing a perfect sealant so the leak or hole can be covered completely.
To use Flex Seal effectively, ensure the surface is clean, dry, and free of grease, oil, and debris. Vigorously shake the can and use a sweeping motion to apply the Flex Seal liquid evenly, covering the area with additional coats as needed. It typically becomes fully cured within 24 to 48 hours, allowing it to dry completely and form a solid barrier.
Based on my personal experience with Flex Seal on my RV, I found that applying multiple thin coats provides a more durable seal than a single thick coat. This method has kept my RV’s roof leak-free through various weather conditions, including heavy rain and snow
Flex Seal is versatile, working on various surfaces, including wood, concrete, glass, and even wet areas like bathrooms. The key is to prepare each surface meticulously, ensuring it’s clean, dry, and free from impurities so the sealant can adhere properly.
And the cool thing about this spray is its waterproof feature and resistance toward almost anything, like the weather. It sounds like a great technology, you may think. Unfortunately, real science isn’t that easy.
Using the sealant is pretty easy. How long does the flex seal last? The claim states that it should last years and resist weather conditions, especially water.
If you are about to use it, you must first clean and prepare the surface. Shake the can quite hard and press on the nozzle to let out the liquid. Apply and cover the area steadily. Apply several thin coats so it will cover the entire region. Wait for around 24 hours to let it dry.
Read also: Does Flex Seal Work on Concrete Material?
Does flex seal work on concrete? Absolutely. It works for wood, concrete, glass, and any wet surface, including the bathroom. You only need to ensure that each surface is thoroughly cleaned and prepared so the sealant will work.
Factors Affecting Flex Seal Longevity
Several factors impact how long Flex Seal will last, including environmental conditions and application technique. Here is a detailed table summarizing these factors:
| Factor | Impact on Flex Seal Longevity |
|---|---|
| Correct Application | Ensures a watertight seal; multiple thin coats are recommended |
| Temperature | Affects curing time; best applied between 32°F and 120°F |
| Humidity and Moisture | High humidity can extend curing time but won’t affect adhesion |
| Surface Quality | Clean, dry, and slightly rough surfaces provide better adhesion |
| Coating Thickness | Multiple thin layers last longer than a single thick layer |
Experience-Based Insights:
- Inside the RV: Flex Seal can last many years without incident when used inside the vehicle. For example, small gaps in doorways and vent edges have remained sealed and watertight for over three years in my RV.
- Outside the RV: Properly applied Flex Seal on exterior surfaces, such as windows and doorways, can last over three years. However, it is crucial to maintain and reapply the sealant if signs of cracking or peeling appear.
“Many RV owners report their Flex Seal application is like-new, even after a few years. Officially, Flex Seal says that ‘Flex Seal will last for years without cracking, peeling or losing any of its strength or sealing properties.'”
However, don’t cross your fingers too hard and expect too much, especially when exposed to many elements. Now that you know how long the flex seal lasts, you shouldn’t depend too much on it.
