Application-Driven Construction Adhesives and Sealants in Latin America

Introduction

Construction adhesives and sealants in Latin America are no longer based on standardized inputs but are becoming performance critical as construction techniques change. Large format tiles, facade glazing, light partitions, and modular systems are just some of the requirements for products that are specifically designed for certain substrates and have specific movement profiles. Adhesives and sealants have consequently become the most strategically important part of the construction chemicals portfolio.

Residential construction is still the most significant factor in tile adhesive demand, especially in Brazil and Mexico. Large format ceramic and porcelain tiles are widely used in mid to high-rise buildings. Such tiles require flexible products with high adhesion property that can effectively manage thermal movement and thus, prevent failure. Saint Gobain Weber in April 2024, increased tile adhesive production in Brazil pointing to constant demand from urban housing developments.

Commercial and institutional constructions facilitate the demand for sealants. Glass facade and curtain wall systems are becoming increasingly common in office buildings, hospitals, and airports. These highly exposed applications require structural sealants that can maintain long term elasticity and weather resistance. In Santiago Chile, several 2024 commercial refurbishments utilized advanced silicone sealants to not only upgrade facade durability but also to lessen maintenance frequency.

Modular construction methods provide extra support for the growth of adhesives. Prefabricated components need to have a quick curing and reliable bonding performance in order to keep the production speed. Due to this, there has been an increase in the level of supplier involvement during the design and installation stages.

For full market alignment, refer to the Latin America Construction Chemicals Market report.

Major Drivers, Trends and Challenges

One of the main factors pushing up the demand for adhesives and sealants is the shift towards installation efficiency. With less labor available and tighter timelines, contractors are more and more dependent on products that not only make the job easier but also help in the reduction of redoing.

Growth of urban residential has been one of the main continuance of tile adhesive volumes and at the same time, upgrading of facade has been a source of support for commercial sealant demand. Large scale refurbishments resulting from energy efficiency upgrades are adding to the trend. There is a major movement towards system based specification that is shaping as a significant trend. Developers are increasingly turning to single suppliers for adhesives, sealants, and other complementary materials to ensure compatibility and alignment of warranty. This is definitely a good thing for multinational suppliers with broad portfolios.

There are challenges like installer skill variability and price competition from low quality imports. Most of the time the failure of adhesives and sealants is due to the wrong application which is why suppliers are spending a lot on training programs. In 2024, Sika and Mapei took the training of installers to a new level by conducting training sessions in Mexico and Brazil.

Whereas there is still competition, specific application adhesives and sealants will, however, continue to experience steady growth with the modernization of construction practices.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Definition and Scope
3. Application Driven Demand Landscape
4. Residential Flooring Systems
5. Façade and Glazing Applications
6. Modular Construction Adoption
7. Quality and Execution Risks
8. Outlook and Strategic Opportunities

Related Resources

Mexico Construction Adhesives Market

Facade Access Equipment Market