What do the pros recommend for sealing sill plate to concrete foundation on the interior side ? Acrylic, Polyurethane, solvent based? Acrylic latex?
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There are a few options for sealing the sill plate to a concrete foundation on the interior side, and the choice of sealant can depend on a variety of factors, such as the climate, the type of concrete, and the type of wood used for the sill plate.
Here are some options that are commonly recommended by professionals:
Polyurethane sealant: Polyurethane sealants are known for their durability and flexibility, making them a good choice for sealing the gap between the sill plate and concrete foundation. They are also resistant to water and can withstand temperature changes.
Acrylic latex sealant: Acrylic latex sealants are easy to apply and can adhere well to both the wood and concrete surfaces. They are also flexible and can withstand some movement without cracking.
Butyl rubber sealant: Butyl rubber sealants are another option that can provide a strong and flexible seal between the sill plate and foundation. They are also resistant to moisture and temperature changes.
Epoxy sealant: Epoxy sealants can provide a very strong bond between the wood and concrete surfaces, making them a good choice for areas with high stress or movement. However, they can be more difficult to apply than other sealants and may require more preparation.
The challenge of sealing sill plate to foundation gets exacerbated by the accuracy of the concrete to be held to a perfectly level surface. There is often a poor tolerance on the top of foundation wall. In a perfect world the ideal sealant is one of long life that could be applied just before the plate is fixed to the foundation.