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Glass totems, what silicon to use?

14 years ago

Hi guys, I have finally gotten around to collecting some pieces to make some totems, I have enough to make my first one. I've read that "GE silicon II" is the best but I went into Bunnings today and the person I saw had never heard of it. Can you get it in Australia? And if not what is the best product to use that you can get here?

I've loved checking out everyones fabulous pieces and am so looking forward to making my own. I'm going to wash all my pieces now.

I've included the link to the one I'm going to make first. I was just fiddling with it the other night and used blue tac to hold the pieces in place so I could see how it's going to look.

(((hugs)))

Tracey

Here is a link that might be useful: glass totem

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Comments (10)

Marlene Kindred
14 years ago
GE Silicone is a brand name, so I have no idea if it's available in Australia. It is a clear silicone caulking for glass and windows, etc. I would think that there should be a similar product available there.

Welcome, by the way and have a great time making your totem! But, remember, they are terribly addicting! And don't forget to let us see....so we can all ooooh and aaaaah over your creation!
mrsdutchy
Original Author
14 years ago
Thanks Marlene! (-: It will look the same as the one in the photo with blue tac (see link) I'm very happy with it so won't change it at all.
I found some silicone, "Selleys glass sillicon sealant for windows and aquariums" it "locks out water, excellent adhesion to glass, UV resistant, Aquarium safe, 100% silicone, acetate cure"
Does this sound similar to the GE that you all use?
Cheers
Tracey
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GEII for windows and doors--clear. No, you do not have to grout when you use the flat glass 'marbles'. I have not done anything that is strictly mosiac.
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Glad this thread returned altho I thot I had posted to it. That is some beautiful glass Jeanne and a very nice composition. Lovely gift. I've always used GE Silicone II and only had one totem out of 40+ come apart. I think it was because DH was moving them and it was made of very heavy glass. Because we live in a cold climate DH always moves my totems to the barn so they are under cover over winter. Dottie, thanks for the tip about Lexel, I might try that. The only downside I've found with silicone is that it's not completely clear.
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That's adorable!! Did you make the mailbox too? Most of them use GE silicone II for doors & windows(outside)caulk & be sure the glass is very clean, might even want to use rubbing alcohol & then don't touch area where you are going to caulk it together & let totem dry for few days before placing in garden. Others will add to this but in case you are in a hurry. Welcome & great project! Thanks for pic! Jan
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That's true. About a year and a half ago I bought some from Walmart that was outdated. I didn't know it until I got it home. I took it back and noticed that all the tubes were outdated. I've purchased it there numerous times since then with no problem, but I always check the date before I bring it home. It's really hard to see. It's indented in small numbers on the bottom end of the tube.
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Marlene Kindred
14 years ago
Yes, just make sure it dries clear! And, I totally missed your link this morning....LOVE your totem!
concretenprimroses
14 years ago
that totem is gorgeous! Looks very victorian.
I think you probably have found the right thing. "for Windows and doors, clear" is the other part of the name of the silicone we mostly use. I would think windows and aquariums would be the same.
Good luck
kathy
mrsdutchy
Original Author
14 years ago
Thanks Marlene and Kathy. I'l post a pic when I get a chance to put it together and it dries.
Cheers
Tracey
dreamspirit
14 years ago
Where do you find this silicone? Lowe's?
luna_llena_feliz
14 years ago
Dreamspirit, you can find GEII Silicone for Windows & Doors at any home improvement store or hardware store. You can even find it at big discount stores like Walmart.
proudgm_03
14 years ago
I used the GEII silicone for my first clear glass totem but I guess I put it on too thick because you can see it. Do you use it sparingly?
4boys2
14 years ago
Also look for GEII that is now "New and Improved" on the label .Claims to be sun and freeze proof...Since I just started making these glass items I guess i won't know for a year or so if their claim holds-up...
sorie6 zone 6b
14 years ago
I've made over 50 of the totems and bird biths and I've only had one come apart because I didn't use enough silicone. I've had 2 out for more than a year and they are still intact. I've found not matter how much silicone you use it will go where it wants. Unless it is really thick around the outside I just leave it. Gives it more strength. I've never had a customer complain about it showing. If you don't like it you can use a razor blade and cut off the access. I always use clear too.
mrsdutchy your totem is very pretty.

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