TIPS USED FOR THE INSTALLATION OF SOFT BACKER ROD

Installation of the soft backer rod in construction joints requires maximum professionalism and competence. Otherwise, one may end up forming a weak joint with poor airtight properties. There are a couple of tips used by builders in order to ensure that the seal formed is stable and airtight. The first consideration to make is whether the soft rod is appropriate to seal the joint in question. Soft rods are only suitable for indoor applications since they lack insulation and airtight properties. Therefore, they cannot be used to cover joints in outdoor constructions where moisture content is high. This also means that they cannot be used to cover areas that require a well-insulated seal.

Once the builder has confirmed whether the soft backer rod is appropriate to fill the joint in question, they can proceed to purchase the required length and diameter of rod. This process may be quite tricky since it requires one to measure the dimensions of the joint precisely. Otherwise, one may end up buying the wrong size of backer rod. The diameter of the rod should be approximately 125% of the joint’s width. One should also consider ordering a larger length than the length of the joint so as to cover for any errors.

Installation of the soft backer rod is quite simple once the discussed steps are followed. The joint to be filled is properly cleaned using pressurized water or air. In the event where pressurized water is used, the joint is left to dry before the rod is installed. Installation of the rod is done using special materials that ensure puncturing does not occur. The rod should not be folded, creases or stretched during installation. The depth that is to be filled by the sealant should be half the width of the joint. Once installed, an appropriate sealant is applied and left to dry. Hot sealants should not be used.