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Caulk is designed to seal joints or cracks,
and to protect them from water, dust, insects, air, and noise. Caulking
can also be done for appearance values. For optimum performance caulking must maintain good adhesion
to both sides of the joint. It must also be able to flex with the joint
when movement occurs.
*Sealants are used to seal joints that move, and adhesives are used to prevent joints from moving.
Recaulking
For the best results on a retro
caulking project such as; masonry control joints, stone to stone joints,
precast to precast joints, and concrete joints, the removal of
"ALL" existing caulking is fundamental. The removal of all
existing caulking should include the film left on the edges of the joint.
A leading cause of failures in retro projects is caulking over some form
of the existing caulk. This procedure is even more important if you are
removing a urethane or acrylic and installing a silicone. Some
caulking manufacturers allow partial removal of existing caulks by using a
primer before installing the new caulk. We have found numerous cases where
this system has failed. Complete removal of the existing caulk reduces the
potential for shoddy workmanship. For optimum performance control
joints require two sided adhesion. The proper installation of a backing
rod or bond breaker tape creates the proper two sided adhesion. Caulking
without the proper backing would create three sided adhesion and a destiny
to fail.
In a retro project the size of
the control joint as compared to movement must also be considered for
optimum performance. Joint size should be at least four times its maximum
anticipated movement.
Here
at R.J. Jacques we understand the purpose of caulking and sealants. We
also maintain a high level of experience and professionalism. Whether we
are working on an new caulking project, or an existing one, our attention
to detail ensures project satisfaction. With the proper maintenance these
caulking projects can last for many years.
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