Elastomeric sealants are often used in the painting and coating industry to prepare a surface before top coating. Sealants are typically thicker than normal paint, and have thickness resembling butter. The sealants take advantage of the chemical properties of a group of compounds called elastomers. Elastomers allow products made with these compounds to exhibit flexibility and stretchiness within a reasonably wide range of temperatures and conditions.
Adobe, masonry and concrete structures develop cracks over their lifespan. Sealing these breaks in the exterior surface of a structure is necessary to keep moisture out and prevent further damage, both inside and outside of the facility.
If the cracks or holes in the material are small, elastomeric sealants can be used to plug the gaps and restore the integrity of the building. The products are not meant to repair cracks that present a genuine compromise in material strength. Most manufacturers of elastomeric ter-polymer sealants recommend using their products to seal a crack no larger than ¼ of an inch across.
Elastomeric sealants are most commonly used on stucco, brick, pre-cast concrete, concrete block. Some sealants are also compatible with wood or metal surfaces.
Elastomeric sealants are meant to be applied to dry clean surfaces, and require time to cure before achieving their desired characteristics. Extreme conditions of heat and cold will reduce the performance of elastomeric ter-polymer sealants.
Coming Up: Elastomeric Ter-polymer Characteristics
