Silicone adhesives are available as both one part and two part adhesives. Silicone adhesives are typically cure via reaction with ambient humidity, although formulations are also available which can be cured by heat, mixing of two components, or exposure to ultraviolet light. Silicones have good adhesion to many substrates, but are limited in their utility as structural adhesives by their low cohesive strength.

The one-part versions, known as RTV silicones (room temperature vulcanizing) are used most often as caulking and gasketing materials.

Silicone sealants (RTV silicones) are one-component, solvent-free, moisture curable compounds that cure to an elastic mass by absorption of moisture from the air. Silicone sealants show excellent resistance to UV rays, various media and high temperatures. The temperature resistance lies between -73°C and +260°C depending on the product's formulation. The maximum admissible permanent movement is 25%. Silicone sealants cannot be painted over..

Two part silicones offer higher performance, and can be used for bonding metal glass and ceramic components, especially used in the electronics industry. The primary advantage of silicone adhesives and sealants are their temperature resistance. Silicones can be formulated to withstand temperatures as high as 260°C, but provide flexible bond lines or sealing throughout their service range.