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CHOOSE THE RIGHT SEALANT
Too often, the contractor or installer will depend
on past experience with a specific sealant
regardless of the requirements.
“It always
worked before – I never had any problem
with this material”.
Well, this is a sure way to
get in trouble! Most contractors and applicators
do not have the technical knowledge to make the
decision on the proper products to be installed in
order to meet all requirements. However, they do
know what is expected from a sealant under
specific conditions.
The input from the manufacturers is critical.
After all, they are the ones you are going to call
if your sealant fails. When you call them, be
precise and truthful. Manufacturers cannot help
you unless you give them the proper
information:
1. Joint design and size.
2. Substrate (concrete, stone, metal, etc.)
3. Condition of the substrate.
4. Geographic location and weather
conditions.
5. Expected performance from the sealant.
6. Your experience doing these types of
projects.
7. Are they willing to warranty their
sealants?
8. Then you can ask the price.
Generally, the contractor does not get the credit
for the success of a sealant, but will get the
blame if it fails.