Captain, I agree 100% with the way you are describing to use it.......You are covering and protecting the connector first.....Funny you should say that. If you actually know HOW to use silicone sealant, it is an EXCELLENT way to waterproof connectors. You just need to learn how to use it PROPERLY. I started using it over 40 years ago and NO......I am NOT a slow learner. FIRST cover the connectors with some black electrical tape, THEN cover the entire connection with silicone. Since the silicone does not directly contact the connectors, there is NO corrosion at all from the acetic acid released by it. If you need to open the connection, all you need to do is use a SHARP knife and cut down thru the silicone and underlying tape and simply peel it back off the cable. I have cut open connections after 20 years to find the connection still water tight and clean and shiny connectors that looked just like the day they were installed. Do not dismiss something simply because you do not understand it. Yes there are other ways to do it, however silicone is neither a cheap nor lazy way of doing and in fact it WILL last IF DONE PROPERLY.
My comment is meant for those that would just smear and coat the outside with silicone sealant...... Not a good way at all, and lazy and cheap......