diving masks

Question
How long should a silicone mask last (i.e. does silicone deteriorate over time)?  Thanks

Answer
Hi Eric

Silicone is an amazingly resilient material.  Unlike the rubber and neoprene masks of years ago, silicone masks should last for several years.  I'm not aware of any "age limit" on silicone masks but there are certainly some things you should do to extend it's useful life.  Silicone masks, as well as all dive equipment, should not be stored in areas of excessive heat, exposed to unnecessary amounts of sunlight or exposed to petroleum based chemicals.  "Excessive heat" would be anything you, as a person, cannot stand.  "Unnecessary sunlight" would be anything other than incidental sunlight.  Do not leave your mask exposed to the sun between dives and do not dry it in the sun.  "Petroleum based chemicals" are such things as  Vaseline, mineral spirits, gasoline, oil and many household cleaning chemicals.  I have seen silicone masks damaged by sunscreens, face lotions and the use of Vaseline to help a mask seal over a mustache.  In the case of the mustache problem, there are silicone based sealers especially made for this purpose.

Storing a clear silicone mask in contact with colored silicone or plastics such as those found in masks, fins, snorkels and straps can lead to a transfer of color to the clear silicone.  This is only a cosmetic change and will not affect the integrity of the silicone.  Likewise, exposure to sun or excessive fluorescent lighting will cause clear silicone to take on an amber color.  This, too, is only cosmetic and won't affect the functionality of the silicone.

If you're concerned about the preservation of your silicone products, you can also purchase liquid silicone in pump bottles or spray cans and wipe down your silicone masks, snorkels and fins, including straps.  It's not necessary but it will make them feel smooth and "wet".

When storing your mask, be sure to keep it in it's protective box.  This will prevent the silicone from taking a "set" after being compressed by other gear stored on top of it.

Eric, it's not unusual to get 10 years of service from a silicone mask.  Following these guidelines should provide a long and useful life for all of your silicone based equipment.

Happy Diving!!

Mike Giles
Mike's Dive Center
mikescuba.com