How Does A Backer Rod Help Save Caulking Material?

Let's be honest. Gaps and cracks are the last thing you want to see in your dream home. Not only do cracks dampen the aesthetics of your pretty home but they also demand expensive repairs. The structural integrity of your home can be compromised if the cracks and gaps are not dealt with in time. While caulking is a widely used solution to seal gaps, that alone is not a long-lasting solution. Backer rods are the secret weapon that can help extend the lifespan of your caulk and save you both time and money. These cylindrical foams, made of polyethylene foam or PE foam, can significantly enhance the longevity of caulking jobs and even significantly reduce the caulking material required. Read this blog until the end to learn how exactly these soft foam rods help you save caulking material.

The Role of Backer Rods In Saving Caulking Material

A backer rod may not always pop up at the top of your head when talking about crucial building materials. It may not even be the most glamorous product in the construction industry. However, the effectiveness of these PE foam rods in saving caulking material is unmatched. These flexible foam tubes are used by contractors to fill in the gaps and cracks before applying caulking material. The absorption ability of PE foam helps in creating a tight seal with minimal caulking material.

By acting as a filler, a backer rod significantly reduces the need for too much caulking material. These foam rods act as an effective backing material, thus getting the name. The ability of polyethylene foam to resist expansion and contraction means that PE foam rods will stay intact for years. As buildings expand and contract with temperature fluctuations or settle over time, without backer rods in place, the caulk could crack or fail under pressure. 

Conclusion

As we have seen in this blog, backer rods play a crucial role in saving caulking material and ensuring the long-lasting integrity of buildings. They provide a firm foundation and help in achieving depth control during caulking jobs. These soft rods are also ideal for reducing joint stress. Alcot Plastics Ltd. is a leading manufacturer and supplier of PE foam products including backer rods and screening splines. Contact our team to learn about our wide range of polyethylene foam products and get a free quote.