Our Round Open Cell Backer Rod is easy to work with. It is soft and compresses to fit most size joints. This product is breathable which allows for a faster cure, but recommended in the interior. This is because it will absorb water. If used on the exterior, only put in the amount of open cell that you think will get done in one day so the exposed backer will not draw in moisture. Note: the use of a blunt tool when installing backer rod to the exterior logs will prevent punctures to the surface of the rod and minimize chink blistering caused by trapped water vaporizing under direct heat from exposure to the sun.
Why use backer rod:
Backer rod is a bond breaker, which means caulk and chink does not stick to it. When put behind caulking, it allows the caulking to only stick at the top and bottom of the joint where it touches the log (2 point adhesion). This allows the material to be pulled only in two directions (up and down) and react to movement like a rubber band.
If no bond breaker is in place, the caulking will stick to the back wall, top and bottom of the joint (3 point adhesion). This holds the caulking in place and does not allow it to move, causing failure.
Backer rod also greatly helps control the depth of the sealant as it is being installed to insure that the optimum amount of material is put into place. If too little material is installed, premature “cohesive failure” can occur. If too much is installed, the sealant is wasted and your costs are greatly increased.
Our Round Open Cell Backer Rod is easy to work with. It is soft and compresses to fit most size joints. This product is breathable which allows for a faster cure, but recommended in the interior. This is because it will absorb water. If used on the exterior, only put in the amount of open cell that you think will get done in one day so the exposed backer will not draw in moisture. Note: the use of a blunt tool when installing backer rod to the exterior logs will prevent punctures to the surface of the rod and minimize chink blistering caused by trapped water vaporizing under direct heat from exposure to the sun.
Why use backer rod:
Backer rod is a bond breaker, which means caulk and chink does not stick to it. When put behind caulking, it allows the caulking to only stick at the top and bottom of the joint where it touches the log (2 point adhesion). This allows the material to be pulled only in two directions (up and down) and react to movement like a rubber band.
If no bond breaker is in place, the caulking will stick to the back wall, top and bottom of the joint (3 point adhesion). This holds the caulking in place and does not allow it to move, causing failure.
Backer rod also greatly helps control the depth of the sealant as it is being installed to insure that the optimum amount of material is put into place. If too little material is installed, premature “cohesive failure” can occur. If too much is installed, the sealant is wasted and your costs are greatly increased.