Ever wonder about the different sealant types for commercial properties?
Whether you are constructing a new structure or refurbishing an existing building, you must give due regard to sealant type and its quality. That is because sealant joints are a key functional component of commercial buildings and all sorts of structures.
If you are looking for commercial sealants in Boca Raton or commercial sealants in Miami Beach, you have come to the right place.
Keep reading to know about different sealant types for commercial properties.
Commercial Buildings and Sealants
In traditional construction, drainage channels collect and drain water so that it does not enter the commercial building.
Sealant joints are what accommodate various building movements like sway, creep, settlement, and thermal expansion. However, modern construction relies on the curtain wall, render, rain screen, and lightweight masonry wall. All of these components require sealant joints to function as intended.
Subpar workmanship and design can prevent sealant joints from working properly. Not only do they require proper selection and installation, but sealant joints also need maintenance and periodic replacement.
If a sealant joint fails, the building envelope will not function properly. There will also be an adverse impact on the structure and internal furnishings, and internal finishes.
Concealed joints in particular demand special attention since they remain out of sight and are hard to access. Hence, replacing, repairing, and maintaining them is more challenging and time-consuming.
Carefully choosing the sealant (with an optimal blend of properties) and installing it correctly are paramount for proper sealant function.
Sealant joints will break down less often. Hence, you will save money on sealant repairs and replacement. Effort expended in this regard is worth it since you will be rewarded with reliable building performance.
Most sealants today comprise an elastomeric substance (to provide flexibility) and filler material. Since sealants are based on pliable material, they can seal gaps efficiently while allowing some movement. Thanks to its flexibility, the sealant compound can withstand some amount of building movement.
A variety of sealant products are available in the market. They are designed for various applications. This includes structural uses such as bonding of facade elements and structural glazing.
Here are the most commonly used sealants for commercial buildings and projects.
Acrylic
Since acrylic sealant products are UV stable, they work well for exterior applications. Another plus point is that they don’t shrink.
However, applying acrylic sealant requires lots of skill and cannot accommodate substantial movement.
Butyl
Butyl can adhere strongly to a wide range of substrates. However, they are not easy to apply. They are not highly resistant to abrasion. Movements that involve shearing forces can also create problems for butyl sealants. Hence, they are not ideal for building applications that are highly demanding.
Polysulfide
Polysulfide sealant exhibits high-level flexibility even for low-temperature ranges. It undergoes little shrinkage, has good UV stability, and is suitable for underwater applications.
Polysulfides tend to be costlier than other sealants. They also emit greater amounts of VOCs – volatile organic compounds.
However, the life expectancy that can range from 10 years to 20 years does provide a reasonable return on investment.
Silicone
Silicone exhibits exceptional thermal resistance. It adheres quite well to a wide range of materials and has a good capability for accommodating movement.
However, they tend to gather dirt. Some substrates (like stone) might introduce stains, due to which using primers is necessary for polysulfides.
Silicon has decent air sealing and waterproofing abilities. This versatile material also has structural uses. For example, it can bond metal and glass to frames.
Although silicones are the most costly sealants, high-quality silicone joints have very good durability.
Polyisobutylenes
Polyisobutylenes have properties that match those of natural rubber. However, this substance has better durability, low permeability, and is strongly resistant to chemical attack.
As a result of these properties, polyisobutylenes find use in insulating glazing units where they serve as primary seals that can resist the transmission of gases and vapor. Instead of being applied on-site, these products are usually applied at the factory.
Polyurethane
Polyurethane adheres quite strongly to most surfaces. Substrate penetration is minimal.
They have pretty good abrasion resistance and are resilient to shearing forces. They can accommodate movement quite nicely and have strong adhesion.
As a result, they are the sealant of choice for many contractors.
Need help?
When selecting a suitable sealant for your commercial property, you can consult your contractor for the product that has the optimal blend of properties for your needs.
Want to find out what are the best sealant types for commercial properties? Whether you need commercial sealants in Boca Raton or commercial sealants in Miami Beach, you can count on Tropic Painting and Waterproofing.
Knowing how critical sealants are for commercial buildings, we carefully employ best practices and premium workmanship to ensure a perfect installation. This means a longer lifespan during which less remediation work will be required. Thus, you can save costs in the long term.
Contact us today at (888)367-2706. You can also email at info@a-1tropic.com