What Is Elastomeric Caulk?
Elastomeric caulks are used to seal cracks and crevices. Homeowners use caulk to seal openings where two building materials join. Among the area where caulk is used is the joint between a window frame and siding on the exterior of the home or along the edge of a bathtub where it joins the wall.
Elastomeric caulk possesses elastic qualities, which make it a versatile caulk product.
Caulk Materials
Manufacturers produce elastomeric caulk from a number of products including polyurethane, silicone and polysulfide. Any of these materials produce caulk products with the elastic qualities necessary for the product to fall into this category.
Elastomeric Properties
Elastomeric caulks are design to expand and continue to fill the cracks or joints even if the building material shifts. There are limits to its ability to expand. Most better quality elastomeric caulks can expand to about double the original caulk bead and still maintain adhesion to the building materials. The caulk maintains a pliable consistency and doesn’t dry out. This prevents cracks in the caulk which can occur with less elastic caulks are used.
Costs
As of 2011, premium quality elastomeric caulks run about $4 per tube. The material is available in most hardware and home improvement stores as well as at lumberyards. Not all products are identified as elastomeric but are more commonly identified by the principle ingredient.
Instructions
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using elastomeric caulk. The application procedures do differ from product to product. Some require porous surfaces such as bare wood to be primed before the caulk is applied. Others have a specific drying time before painting over the caulk. In the case of solvent-based elastomeric caulk a chemical solvent is used to shape the caulk bead and to clean any tools.
References
Writer Bio
Keith Allen, a 1979 graduate of Valley City State College, has worked at a variety of jobs including computer operator, medical clinic manager, radio talk show host and potato sorter. For over five years he has worked as a newspaper reporter and historic researcher. His works have appeared in regional newspapers in North Dakota and in "North Dakota Horizons" and "Cowboys and Indians" magazines.
Photo Credits
- Comstock/Comstock/Getty Images
- Comstock/Comstock/Getty Images
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