When on a trip, the right adhesive could be a lifesaver. From loose shoe soles to broken shoes, adversities can happen anytime. And with the right tool to seal everything, you could be safe from a lot of messy situations.
Seam Grip and Aquaseal are two popular names in the world of adhesives. They both have made a name for themselves in the market. So, you can always ask, which one is better in the Seam Grip vs Aquaseal?
Seam Grip and Aqua Seal are both adhesives that are made of very similar materials. Seal Grip works better with neoprene materials. On the other hand, Aquaseal is ideal for dealing with most camping materials. You have to choose based on your own requirements.
In this article, we’re going to solve the question once and for all. So, let’s begin!
Table of Contents
Things You Should Know About Seam Grip and Aquaseal
Before we get into the comparisons, we need to know about the products first. Both Aquaseal and Seam Grip are high-end adhesives that specialize in different facets. While they might look very similar, they specialize in different situations.
Thus, it’s important that we discuss these products before we get into discussions. The details include:
Aquaseal
Aquaseal is one of the best product lines from Gear Aid! They have a series of high-end urethane-based products that work exceptionally well.
One of the best products of the Aquaseal line is the Aquaseal FD. It is a urethane-based adhesive that will provide you with maximum strength. It provides good abrasion resistance. So it’s recommended for high-wear areas such as boots, water sports gear, etc.
If you’re looking for something quick that dries easily, Aquaseal UV is the way to go for you. Although they might wear out early, they’re good for on-the-go fixes!
Footwear is crucial when it comes to hiking. Torn or damaged boots can be a huge impediment to your hiking. Also, poor footwear can risk accidents if you’re not careful enough. And that’s where Aquaseal SR comes in.
It’s an award-winning patent that works amazingly on footwear. From athletic shoes to rollerblades, it could fix everything.
The last product in the Aquaseal line of products is the Aquaseal NEO. It’s great for fast, yet temporary fixes. This will get cured within 20 minutes, so you can fix pretty much anything on the fly.
In short, this is the line of products offered by Aquaseal. Each of these products has its very unique specialties.
Seam Grip
Seam grip is also a product of Gear Aid. However, it’s not a part of the product line of Aqua Seal. It’s a standalone product that works on a separate niche on its own. It follows the same material as the Aquaseal products which is a Urethane base.
Seam grip works in a different dimension compared to Aquaseal. It’s ideal if you’re looking for better adhesion and superior waterproofing. However, applying it takes a bit more effort and resting than Aquaseal products.
Quick Review
Before we get into the technical jargon, let’s give you a quick rundown of everything. This is to help you understand what features each of these products bring to the table. This way, you can choose the right one for you!
You can get the basic information here from the table –
| Price | Image | Product | Flexibility | Usage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Order Today! |   | GEAR AID Seam Grip WP Waterproof Sealant and Adhesive | Flexible | Multipurpose |
| Order Today! |   | Gear Aid Aquaseal FD Flexible Durable Repair Adhesive | Depends on product | All-purpose |
Oh, we’ve also come up with a graph to highlight the comparison in a more transparent way. Take a look!
So far, we’ve provided all the basic information about Aquaseal and Seam Grip. Now, let’s get into business!
Seam Grip and Aquaseal: Detailed Comparison
Source: https://www.gearaid.com/
In layman’s terms, Aquaseal and Seam Grip look like very similar products. However, Aquaseal is a brand with multiple products. On the other hand, Seam Grip is a standalone product line. So, we’ll compare the features of Seam Grip, with specific Aquaseal products, let’s begin!
Flexibility and Versatility
By adherence, we mean the adhesive’s ability to adhere to substances. What materials you can use your adhesive on is a key issue. Using the wrong product on the wrong substance could potentially be dangerous.
Seam Grip
Seam Grip works on a number of materials. Since it’s made of Thermoset Urethane, it works very well on most materials like nylon and canvas. The formula bonds very well to tents, campers, and PVC plastic.
Here’s a video you can watch by gear aid to know how to seal a tent using seam grip.
However, compared to other adhesives, Seam Grip is pretty thick. So, it might not work on certain surfaces. Especially in lightweight ones like the tarp size we use for camping. In that case, you can lighten it up by adding toluene to it.
If you have a small hole to fix, and you need to get it done quickly, thinning it up with some toluene is a good idea. It makes the adhesive runnier and helps it set quickly.
Aquaseal
When it comes to Aqua Seal’s range of products, it depends on the type of product you’re using. It has a line of products that work on different things. The Aquaseal FD is the most versatile Aquaseal glue in their range of products!
It works on a number of substances, from tents made of vinyl, nylon to leather and nylon. But, you need to choose the right Aqua Seal product for it.
Aquaseal works on Neoprene products too. However, since neoprene is a bit hard to deal with, you might ask, does Aquaseal work on Neoprene Waders?
Yes! Aquaseal works on neoprene waders. If you’re looking for a quick fix to the problem, you can apply Aquaseal NEO. If you’re planning for something that will last longer, using the Aquaseal FD is a good idea!
Application Process
Source: https://dryftfishing.com/
The application process is another key factor that you need to take into account. If the application process seems too complicated, it might not be the right adhesive for you. To make matters easier for you, let’s discuss the application process for both Seam Grip and Aquaseal. Let’s begin!
Seam Grip
The application of Seam Grip depends on how you want to use it. If you want to use its full consistency, it’s not that complicated. If you’re wondering how to use seam grip, the steps are-
- Firstly, make sure you’re in a well-ventilated area. For Seam Grip to work, the temperature has to be at least 60° F. Also, keep the humidity in check, because the higher the humidity, the faster it will dry. Generally, it works better with the relative humidity at 40% or higher.
- Put on your gloves and make sure you have enough protective gear. Getting adhesive on your skin can be dangerous.
- Now, with a brush or a foam applicator, apply a thin coat of adhesive on the seams. Make sure you’re sealing from the inside or the underside of your material.
If you’re wondering which foam applicator to use, you can check our recommendations-
| Buy Now | Image | Product | Good Sides |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grab Today |   | Meguiar’s Supreme Shine Foam Applicator Pads | Machine washable and highly durable |
| Grab Today |   | Chemical Guys Premium Grade Microfiber Applicators | Allow them to absorb upto 10 times their weight in liquid |
These are some of the best out there, check their reviews for more!
- Once you’re done applying, let it dry for at least 30 minutes. Then, remove any excess by rubbing it with isopropyl alcohol. If any parts seem to be flaking, you can add some extra as well.
- Generally, seam grip takes 8-10 hours to dry. It’s better to keep it under the sun to help it dry faster. Once it has dried out, it should have a yellowish hue.
In short, this is how you apply Seam Grip on any material. If you want to fasten the drying time, you can apply toluene to the mix to thin it out.
Aquaseal
The process for applying Aqua Seal is pretty similar to that of Seam Grip. However, since it’s a little thinner, you can apply it directly from the tub. Then, you can spread it around with a knife or flat stick.
However, adhesives like Aquaseal FD have a longer drying time. In those cases, you might need to keep them overnight to dry properly.
Water and Abrasion Resistance
How long your adhesive will last depends on how protective it is. Even if it creates a protective layer, if it can’t handle certain situations, it won’t work for you. For this reason, you need to know the resistance your adhesive provides.
Seam Grip
To begin with, Seam Grip is very strong against most natural factors. The urethane bonds very strongly on your material to prevent any water from passing. As a result, it’s completely water and moisture resistant.
Furthermore, the material is abrasion-resistant. It means that the material will withstand significant wear and tear from regular usage. So, you don’t have to worry much about it.
Aquaseal
When it comes to Aquaseal, the longevity of the protection depends on the type of the product. For products like Aquaseal FD, or the Aquaeal SR, the protection they provide is pretty comprehensive
For example, the Aquaseal SR is one of the best when it comes to providing water resistance. Thus, it’s ideal for any material that regularly comes in contact with water. While the Aquseal FD is better for things like tents and tarps since it handles abrasion better.
Again, if you need a quick fix for something like a damaged sleeping bag, Aquseal NEO is a good idea if you’re carrying PVC materials. When we compared wool blanket and sleeping bag, we understood Aquaseal could be beneficial for both.
So, you need to choose your Aquaseal product based on your needs.
Ideal Temperature
When it comes to adhesives, longevity is crucial. You’d often find yourself in critical situations due to extreme climates. So, if your adhesive doesn’t work in such temperatures, you’ll have to struggle a fair bit.
Seam Grip
When it comes to fair grip, its temperature ranges from 60°F to 100°F for application. However, you’d need at least 40% relative humidity in the air for it to dry properly. And once you’re done, you can store it in any temperature from the range of -200°F to 180°F.
Aquaseal
When it comes to Aquaseal, the temperatures can be a bit hard to keep track of. The temperature ranges for each product are different. So you need to keep each of them in mind.
To help you understand better, we’ve compiled everything in this table-
| Price | Image | Product | Use Temperature | Storage Temperature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pick Today! |   | Aquaseal FD | 60° to 100°F | -20° to 180°F |
| Pick Today! |   | Aquaseal SR | 60° to 100°F | -20° to 180°F |
| Pick Today! |   | Aquaseal NEO | 60° to 80° F | -20° to 150° F |
| Pick Today! |   | Aquaseal UV | 28° to 120° F | -20° to 150° F |
From the table, we can see that the quick-drying ones have a smaller temperature range. So, it’s better to have a clear idea first before getting the adhesive you need.
Longevity
Source: https://www.gearaid.com/
What makes a good adhesive great is its longevity. If it lasts long, it’s worth the money. However, when we say longevity, we don’t only mean how long it lasts after application. But we also refer to the shelf life of the product.
Seam Grip
When it comes to seam grip, the final product can last years if taken care of well. You need to follow the application process mentioned above carefully and give it at least 8-10 hours to dry. Once you’re done, it will stay in place for at least a few months unless it goes through serious damage.
So, you might ask, does Seam Grip expire?
Seam grip has a shelf life of four years since manufacture. The manufacturing date is placed on the bottom of the tube. Once the tube has been opened, and the material has been exposed to moisture, it’ll start curing.
In order to prevent curing, you need to store it carefully. Once opened, the tube of Seam Grip can last up to six months if stored properly.
Aquaseal
Aquseal and Seam Grip are made from pretty similar materials. So, they’re quite similar to each other in terms of longevity. They have a very similar shelf life. So, how long does Aquaseal last?
Aqua seal has a shelf life of four years and can last up to six months after opening. However, its longevity after opening depends on how it’s stored.
Moreover, some Aquaseal products are thinner than others. So, you need to be extra careful with them. If they aren’t stored properly, the materials will ooze out and start curing by themselves.
Storage
As mentioned above, storage is a key part of the longevity of your adhesive. Storing them carefully goes a long way in terms of shelf life. However, even after storage, if the product doesn’t last a long time, it won’t work for you.
Seam Grip
Storing seam grip isn’t that hard. Now, you have to keep in mind that once you open the tube, it starts curing immediately. And there’s no way to stop the curing. Instead, what you have to do is slow it down.
Now, once your Seam Grip has been opened, you need to store the seam grip in the freezer. In order to do that, you need to remove the moisture in it. Press the materials of the tube in front so that all the moisture is gone.
Once the moisture leaves, seal it tightly and put it in a Ziploc bag. Afterward, keep it in a dry and cool place. In this case, the best place would be to leave it in your freezer.
Aquseal
Just like Seam Grip, Aqua Seal also freezes whenever it comes in contact with moisture. So, how do you store aqua seals?
It’s pretty simple. First, make sure there’s no moisture in the tube by spreading the adhesive all over the tube. Afterward, seal it tight and store it carefully in your freezer. If you’re using the thinner ones, put them in a Ziploc bag first.
In short, this is the process of storing Aquaseal products.
Does the Adhesive Attract Bugs?
When it comes to camping in the wild, safety is the most important factor. If you’re in a forest, protecting yourself from wild animals should be a key priority. And one of the best ways to protect yourself is to be discrete and away from the people around you.
Both Seam Grip and Aqua Seal are pretty dark in color. As a result, when they dry out, they aren’t very noticeable. Also, Seam Grip can put on a yellowish hue when left in the sun for too long. But, it’s still not that noticeable,
However, both Seam Grip and Aquaseal have a distinct odor. Thus, the smell might attract ants and rodents. However, you can add a layer of talcum powder to it to conceal the stench.
Precautions
Both Seam grip and Aquaseal are Urethane based adhesives. So, it goes without saying that it won’t be kind to your skin or fingers. For this reason, you need to be careful, to begin with.
Always wear gloves when working with adhesives. Make sure you’re wearing good-quality protective gloves. For example, the Lanon PVC gloves are ideal for these situations.
Also, it’s better to keep your sleeves covered so that it doesn’t come in contact with other parts of your hand. Furthermore, avoid touching your face or eyes when you’re working.
But, accidents can happen, unfortunately. The adhesive might come in contact with your hand. So, how to remove seam grip from the finger?
If your finger comes in contact with adhesive, don’t apply water! Water fastens the curing process, making them last longer. The adhesive will dry and flake off your hands in time. However, you can rub it with a coarse cloth soaked in rubbing alcohol to fasten the process.
However, we recommend that you stay safe while applying the adhesive. If you have sensitive skin, it could lead to itching and infections.
So, Which One is Worth it?
Finally, let’s ask the all-important question! Which one of Seam Grip and Aqua Seal would you go for? Well, the answer depends on some scenarios.
But here we’ve again compared everything very briefly for one last time. So have a look at the following table and choose according to your convenience.
Hope we’ve answered all the questions you had in mind.
FAQs
How Do You Get Aquaseal Off Your Hands?
When Aquaseal dries, it flakes and gets away from your skin. However, to remove it quickly, you can clean it with a coarse cloth and rubbing alcohol.
What is Aquaseal good for?
Aquaseal has a range of products that work on different things. However, Aquaseal is great for things like neoprene, nylon, etc. Also, it has quick-fix solutions that dry out very fast!
Does Aquaseal Work on Leather?
Yes! The Aquaseal SR is one of the special products of their line. It’s made specifically for leather products such as boots and hiking clothing.
Bottom Line
The right adhesive can be a life-changer in certain situations. And Seam Grip and Aqua Seal are some of the best in their worlds.
We’ve discussed everything you need to know to find the right one for you! We hope we’ve been able to help you choose the right one between Seam Grip Vs AquaSea.
