When to Use Silicone Spray Instead of WD-40: A Beginner’s Guide
WD-40 stands for Water Displacement on the 40th attempt. It primarily contains a mixture of hydrocarbons and mineral oils and is a universal waterproof solvent. If you have ever used a spray to unstuck jammed iron bolts or plumbing fixtures, you would be well versed with the effectiveness of WD-40. However, have you ever wondered when to use silicone spray? Although WD-40 works very well to clean and loosen fixed components, it leaves a sticky residue when applied that attracts dust and dirt. Besides, it provides a short-term waterproofing solution.
On the other hand, silicone spray has a longer lasting effect and leaves a smoother look particularly on materials like rubber, plastic and wood. At Neptonics, we know where these products are used and produce highly effective results. Continue reading this insightful blog that helps you understand when to use silicone spray instead of WD-40, how they differ, and why knowing the right choice can save time, effort, and money.
Understanding the Difference: WD-40 vs. Silicone Spray
Even though they both come in aerosol cans, they are different in formulation and application. WD-40 is a petroleum-based cleaner, degreaser, and moisture displacer. It works well to loosen stiffened bolts, prevent squeaks, and remove dirt. Nevertheless, it is a short-term lubricant as it evaporates and leaves minimum protective residue.
On the other hand, silicone spray bonds to surfaces and gives a long-lasting water-proofing and rust protection. It leaves a smooth, non-greasy surface that keeps off water and cuts friction off weeks later. Besides, it does not pick dirt or dust like other oil-based products do.
Therefore WD-40 is good at cleaning and releasing rust elements, silicone spray is good at defending and prevention.
Apply Silicone Spray on Plastic and Rubber
Silicone spray is the obvious choice when you need a spray for rubber or plastic parts. Using WD-40 can lead to rubber drying out and becoming brittle over time.
Silicone spray maintains the rubber to be supple and flexible. It also prevents adhesion of seals and gaskets, their cracking, and freezing. You can use it on the seals around car windows or fridge doors or the O-rings in your diving gear to ensure that they are always in excellent condition.
Silicone spray is a water-proofing lubricant and leaves the material non-oily, which means it is ideal on the delicate materials without damaging them.
Select Silicone Spray for Long-term Lubrication
Whereas WD-40 is a perfect short-term lubricant, silicone spray offers permanent lubrication. It works particularly well on moving components composed of metal, wood or plastic.
Apply it to the slides of your drawers, door hinges, fishing reel, or your spear gun trigger. The oily coating will guarantee easy movement and minimize wear in the long run. Moreover, since silicone spray is moisture and corrosion resistant, it is ideal in marine environments, like maintaining your spearfishing gun and other fishing equipment. .
Say Goodbye to Sticky Residue with Silicone Spray
Cleanliness is one of the primary factors to choose silicone spray instead of WD-40. WD-40 leaves a sticky layer that accumulates dust and dirt, likely leading to dirty surfaces with time.
Silicone spray dries very fast and leaves a clear, dry coating. This helps it excel in places that require to remain hygienic such as those on door handles, window tracks, or even tools. It also works best in lubricating gym equipment, locks, and musical instruments where oil residue would be a problem.
Corrosion Protection of Metal Surfaces
Saltwater and humidity make a damaging impact on metal gear. While WD-40 is useful to remove existing rust, silicone spray provides long-lasting protection and prevention.
A thin coating of silicone spray on metal components creates a waterproof coating that prevents corrosion. Be it your dive knife, speargun shaft, or stainless steel tools, this protective coating keeps your equipment in excellent condition.
This is the reason why those long time divers and technicians use silicone spray to get everything moving after every dive, this way it does not rust and continues running well.
Apply Silicone Spray for Electrical Protection
In contrast to WD-40, silicone spray is widely preferred for most electrical tasks. It is non-conductive and waterproofing, thus ideal in safeguarding of electrical connections.
Whether maintaining underwater lighting systems, battery terminals, and other electronic accessory units, silicone spray will be a good insulator. It also assists in averting corrosion on the metal contacts in the marine environments.
Keep Moving Parts Smooth and Quiet
Once things begin to squeak, most of people automatically grab WD-40. Although it may work to quiet the noise at least in the moment, silicone spray is even more beneficial in that it is cleaner and can work longer.
It works very well in lubricating window tracks, sliding doors, bike chains, and fishing reels. Due to the fact it does not attract dirt or dust, you will not have to apply it as frequently. And it makes your equipment run quite quietly and efficiently--just as you like it.
Suitable for Water Resistance and Protection
If you live near the ocean or spend time outdoors, moisture is your gear’s biggest enemy. Silicone spray provides excellent water resistance by creating a hydrophobic barrier on surfaces.
You may spray it on your wetsuit zippers, dive bag zippers, or spearfishing gun parts. It stops the intrusion of water and corrosion and allows freedom of movement. Silicone spray is essential in wet or marine conditions.
Use Silicone Spray for a Polished Look
Silicone spray not only coats the materials; it also makes them look better. It spruces up a slight shine on plastic, rubber, and metals without making their surfaces oily.
You can spray some light coating in cleaning your speargun, your dive fins, or your stainless steel gear and make them appear new again. It is ideal for cleaning and maintenance, giving the best finishing touch.
Order Online From Us to Get High-Quality Silicone Spray
If you require silicone spray for protection and lubrication of your power tools, window seals or spearfishing equipment, you can order it online from our store. At Neptonics, we provide high-quality spearfishing gear and silicone spray.
Check out our inventory and purchase your favorite spearguns, gears or accessories online from the comfort of your home at a pocket-friendly price. Enjoy your underwater adventures and day-to-day life.