Need to select a caulk that will replace/fill voids around windows in a cement block commercial building. The space around the windows is anywhere from 1/4 to 3/8. The material around the windows now appears to be clear silicone( very dirty) and I am under the impression that nothing sticks to silicone even silicone. This job may include digging out a lot of the old stuff. Anyone know what may have been used at the time the building went up.
Anyone have any recommendations?
Could a building code update make your go-to materials obsolete?
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Replies
I would think a butyl caulk would be good for this application.....
in vino veritas
I think Butyl is out of date....most commercial stuff comes in "sausages", & I'm thinking it's polyurethane or polysulfide these days
Roger that.in vino veritas
Is there any exterior trim around the windows? I'm installing several exterior doors and using this process:
If you don't want to use expandable foam, get some "caulk backer rod" and pack the openings with it before you caulk. Backer rod is a foam "rope" that comes in different diameters.
Contact Sonny (he hangs out in the tavern). He sent me a document that explains caulk in a very detailed manner. It was extremely helpful and anyone that caulks anything should know this stuff. Sonny does a lot of maintenance and he's obviusly done his caulk homework.
I'd post it myself, but I only can find it in my printed out version. I don't remember what the title of his document was.
There are many factors that you should consider before choosing any one caulk. You'll be surprised. Anyone that is answering the question without knowing a lot more info probably hasn't read Sonny's stuff.
blue
If you have to remove old silicone caulk, there is stuff called "Contractor's DeSolveIt" (or some such fancy spelling, but that's the name), orange-based de-gunker in a spray bottle, that will make your life much better -
Spray it on, let it soak, peel off the nasty stuff. Might need to sit awhile, but really works well. (If only the rest of life were that simple!)
Good Luck!
Try here; http://www.tremcosealants.com
I went to a sort week long course at tremco in Cleavland OH several years ago. Learned a lot about caulks, caulking, sealant, etc.
Dave
> Anyone know what may have been used at the time the building went up.
When did the building go up?
No electrons were harmed in the making of this post.
Good question Dan! I think that post qualifies for the LQQ designation.
blue
Dow 790 and Dow 795 are about the most common caulks used in commercial applications these days. There's no telling what was used originally, since we don't even know the age of the building, but if it's even remotely recent it's most likely either 790, 795, or an "or equal".
Bob