Types of Building Sealant
Several types of building sealant are used to keep construction projects safe and secure. It is essential to select the correct type of sealant for each application.
The sealant must be compatible with the materials of construction and their expected movements. It must also be resistant to the effects of weathering such as rain, frost and alkaline conditions.
Expansion Joints
Many commercial structures have concrete slabs that must expand and contract to accommodate the environmental temperatures. These expansion and contraction movements create necessary, but aesthetically displeasing gaps that must be sealed. Sealing these gaps with the right kind of building sealant will help protect these vulnerable areas from water, air and other elements that could damage the structure.
The type of building sealant used to fill the expansion joints needs to be able to withstand the large movement that is expected in these areas. Choosing the best product will depend on the materials the structure is made from, what sort of finish the customer would like and whether there are any building regulations that must be adhered to.
When sealing a concrete expansion joint, it is important that the proper preparation and cleaning of the area are done. The gap should be completely dry and dust free before it is sealed. It is also recommended that the use of a release back-up tape be used, as this will help prevent the sealant from becoming over stressed in the future.
There are several types of concrete expansion joint sealants available on the market, but one that is widely used is QUIKRETE non-sag polyurethane sealant. This type of building sealant is easy to apply and is very effective in a wide range of temperatures.
Windows
Window seals are important to keep warm air in and cold air out. If your windows don’t have good seals, it can cause heat and electricity bills to rise. It can also lead to wood rot and mold. It’s best to replace old windows before the seals fail and a lot of moisture gets in.
To help ensure that you have a proper seal, you should always remove any loose Building Sealant caulk before applying a new one. It’s also a good idea to scrape or wash away any dirt, grease, or oil from the area before sealing. This will give the caulk a better chance to adhere to the surface.
There are several types of sealants that can be used for window seals. Some are elastomeric and can accommodate a wide range of movements. Others are only plastic and cannot handle as much movement. You can also use spray foam that expands to fit larger gaps. This type of sealant can be painted to protect it from sunlight and ultraviolet rays.
Choosing the right product for your needs will be based on your climate, where you live, and what type of windows you have. For example, wood or aluminum frames aren’t a good choice for the Midwest because they don’t perform well with humidity and extreme temperatures.
Doors
Doors are a source of air leakage and drafts in homes. They must be properly sealed and air insulated to meet ENERGY STAR requirements and comply with building codes. Door frames should be air sealed with weather stripping and caulking or foam backer rod. Door sweeps and shoes are also a good way to stop drafts by covering the gap under the doors.
Water-based sealants such as latex are popular for residential use because they are easy to apply and clean up, and are paintable. These are best suited for interior applications where gaps Building Sealant or voids are small and movement is minimal. For exterior applications, a polyurethane sealant is recommended. Polyurethanes are more durable and have better resilience to abrasion than latex, and they can withstand more significant movement.
Whether you’re using silicone or another product, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for application and tooling. A specialized caulking gun is often required for larger projects, and the use of a primer to prep the surface can increase adhesion. Using a caulking tool to smooth the bead can help ensure an even and consistent result.
When used correctly, sealing windows and doors will reduce energy costs for your clients. Inefficiently sealed windows can cause heating and cooling systems to work harder than necessary to regulate a comfortable temperature, increasing operating costs. Ultimately, this may also lead to unscheduled repairs and replacements.
Roofs
Roofs provide a protective barrier between the outside elements and the interior of a building. Keeping a roof in good condition is important to prevent leaks, water damage, or pest intrusions. A roof sealant is a liquefied material that is applied to the roof and hardens to form an adhesive barrier. Sealants are available in a variety of colors and formulations. Some coatings are reflective and can help in lowering energy bills by deflecting the sun’s UV rays.
Sealants can be applied to counter flashing joints, metal seams, tubular penetration flanges, and a host of other areas on a roof. They are often formulated with specific properties to address substrate applications. For example, some are better suited for high expansion and contraction rates than others.
To ensure a long life for a roof sealant, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s application instructions and properly prepare the surface prior to application. If you’re not familiar with proper roof preparation, it’s a good idea to consult a professional roofing contractor or an experienced advice advisor at a home improvement store.
In addition to preventing leaks, water damage, and pests, roof sealants can also extend the lifespan of the roof by up to half. Keeping the roof in good condition should be a priority for homeowners, as it can reduce energy costs, protect against UV damage, and add to property value and curb appeal.