Sealing of cracks, concrete expansion and contraction joints is a critical part of maintaining the structural integrity of any concrete structure. You can carry out concrete joint sealing on walls or floors to help prevent elements like moisture, wind, and surface tension from causing damage in the concrete. Different methods are in use today. Here are the main types of concrete joint sealing products available.
Liquid join sealants Liquid concrete joint sealing products are a popular choice for many thanks to their low costs and ease of installation. Liquid sealants are made out of silicon, which provides a considerable degree of impermeability and resistance to the sun's ultraviolet rays. Despite their low cost, liquid sealants are durable and will maintain their properties over time irrespective of temperature changes. Liquid sealants are supplied to the joint through a tube and a special control nozzle for ease of application. You can also find hot-pour liquid concrete sealant, which has to be heated to a specified temperature before applying it to the joint.
Impregnated foam sealant Impregnated foam sealant is a special type of sealant supplied in its functional state. It does not require heating, mixing or any kind of preparation. Impregnated concrete joint sealing foam is produced by taking special polyurethane foam and adding water-repelling adhesive agents to it and compressing it to up to a fifth of its original size. Impregnated foam sealants are also known as preformed compression seals; this is because they are always in compression at all times. Thanks to their pre-compressed stated, impregnated concrete sealants can provide a considerable degree of thermal insulation and resist air pressure differences that occur between the interior and exterior of most buildings that use forced air heating and cooling systems.
Hybrid concrete joint sealant Polyurethane foam and silicon liquid sealants are well reputed for their high performance, significant adhesion, durability and their ability to allow for movement. Hybrid sealants combine the strengths of these two to form a stronger high-performance and functionally versatile concrete joint sealing product. Hybrid sealants are also popular due to their isocyanate and solvent free nature as well as their flexibility allowing contractors to adapt them to different conditions. They will quickly bond porous surfaces too. Some of the main advantages of hybrid sealants include mechanical endurance, very little and sometimes unnoticeable odour, high solid content that does not shrink, stability even under ultraviolet exposure and a paintable surface within hours after application.
Share7 March 2017
When we moved into the house we had a really cute patio, but it was so small that if more than two people wanted to share a meal or sit together there wasn't room. That's why I have been extending the patio and working on ways to make it more hospitable for the whole family to spend time out there, such as getting the music system to connect to some speakers in the structure. This blog has some tips for homeowners who are looking to attempt a patio renovation or extension and has some tips on which jobs to DIY and when to call in the professionals.