Understanding precured silicone sealants: The secret to leak-free claddings When it comes to a leak-free building, the sealants are the backbone of the whole cladding system. Even the best exterior aluminum, masonry, glass, steel, or exterior insulation and finish systems (EIFS) are only as good as the sealants used to weatherproof the joints, penetrations, and transitions of the cladding system being specified. |
Discover the Best Tools for the steel frame trade Marino\WARE® helps build America. As a 100 percent wholly U.S.-owned and operated steel framing manufacturer, the company produces a complete line of steel construction products and services used in commercial building across the country. |
Blocking exterior noise sources Whether at work or home, indoor acoustic comfort requires freedom from unwanted sound. Exposure to elevated noise levels may disrupt sleep and interfere with activities requiring concentration. Left uncontrolled, long-term exposure to noise levels not otherwise considered hazardous can lead to stress. |
Durability of Elastomeric Sealants Sealant is used in the exterior joints of every modern building, but usually incorrectly. Owners have high expectations for performance and durability, but premature sealant failure is common, resulting in air and water infiltration, property damage, and expensive repair work. Design details and installation practices contribute to the service life, but there is a bigger problem in the industry—many sealant products cannot resist movement and weathering, which are their core functions. |
Specifying Movement Joints and Sealants for Tile and Stone: Reviewing current industry standards and design options When there is a tile or stone failure, a contributing factor is often the lack of properly installed movement joints. Just like concrete sidewalks and bridges, tile and stone need to have movement joints to control the anticipated movements within a structure. Tile and stone will expand and contract when it is subjected to heat/cold or moisture/dryness. It is critical for architects to properly specify the design, materials, and layouts of movement joints. |
Using pre-cured sealants in construction applications by Jason Bakus Silicone’s excellent aging characteristics, resistance to ultraviolet (UV) light and weathering, and long effective life span has made pre-cured sealants a popular material for construction-related applications. Pre-cured sealants of silicone are produced by extruding elastomeric sealant material and allowing it to cure to a rubbery, flexible product in a controlled manufacturing environment. They are packaged in cured form—often in rolls—instead of typical liquid form packaging such as tubes or pails. The sealant … |