This article will focus on the benefits of using DOW Corning structural sealant for architects and builders, and explain how this sealant can provide a strong and reliable bond for building facades and curtain walls, as well as improve the energy efficiency and overall safety of buildings.
What Is DOW Corning Structural Sealant?
DOW Corning is a well-known company that produces high-quality sealants for various industries. It is one of their popular products that is widely used in construction and architecture.
DOW Corning structural sealant is a high-performance silicone sealant that is specifically designed for use in structural glazing and weather sealing applications.
It is a one-component, neutral cure sealant that cures by reacting with moisture in the air. The sealant creates a strong and durable bond that can withstand harsh weather conditions, temperature changes, and movement.
DOW Corning Structural Sealant: The Ideal Choice For Architects And Builders
DOW Corning structural sealant is the ideal choice for architects and builders for several reasons.
- Firstly, it provides a strong and reliable bond for building facades and curtain walls, ensuring the safety and longevity of the building structure.
- Secondly, it is highly resistant to weathering, UV radiation, and ozone, making it suitable for use in exterior applications.
- Thirdly, it improves the energy efficiency of buildings by reducing heat loss and air infiltration. Lastly, it is compatible with most building materials, providing flexibility and versatility in construction applications.
The following takes SJ268 Silicone Structural Sealant as an example to describe its advantages in detail.
DOW Corning SJ268 Silicone Structural Sealant:
DOW Corning SJ268 Silicone Structural Sealant is a high-performance silicone sealant that is ideal for use in structural glazing applications. It has several advantages that make it a preferred choice for architects and builders:
- High-strength bonding:
DOW Corning SJ268 Silicone Structural Sealant offers high-strength bonding between glass and metal frames, making it ideal for use in structural glazing applications.
- Excellent adhesion:
This sealant has excellent adhesion to a wide range of substrates, including glass, aluminum, steel, and many plastics. It is also compatible with most building materials.
- High tensile strength:
SJ268 Silicone Structural Sealant has a high tensile strength, which allows it to withstand significant stress and movement without losing its sealing properties.
- Weather resistance:
This sealant is highly resistant to weathering, UV radiation, and ozone, making it suitable for use in exterior applications.
- Temperature resistance:
Silicone Structural Sealant can withstand temperatures from -50°C to 150°C (-58°F to 302°F), making it suitable for use in high-temperature applications.
- Ease of application:
DOW Corning SJ268 Silicone Structural Sealant is easy to apply and can be tooled to a smooth finish. This means that architects and builders can achieve a clean and professional look for their building facades and curtain walls without spending too much time and effort on the application process.
- Aesthetically appealing:
This sealant is available in a range of colors, including clear, white, black, and gray, to match different substrates and aesthetic requirements. Architects and builders can choose the color that best matches the design and style of their building, ensuring a cohesive and visually pleasing look.
How Does DOW Corning Structural Sealant Work?
DOW Corning Structural Sealant works by creating a strong and reliable bond between building facades and curtain walls. This is accomplished through a chemical reaction that occurs when the sealant is exposed to moisture in the air.
How does it work?
As the sealant cures, it forms a tough, flexible bond that can withstand significant stress and movement. Taking glass and metal frames as an example, the sealant is applied in a continuous bead around the perimeter of the frame, and then the glass is placed into position.
The sealant is typically applied in a continuous bead along the joint or surface to be sealed. It is then tooled to ensure that it fills any gaps and creates a uniform seal. Once the sealant is applied, it begins to cure and will reach its full strength in a matter of days.
One of the key advantages of DOW Corning Structural Sealant is its ability to accommodate movement and thermal expansion and contraction. This is important in building facades and curtain walls, where materials can expand and contract with changes in temperature and humidity. The sealant's flexibility ensures that it can maintain its seal even as materials move and shift.
Tips For Better Applying DOW Corning Structural Sealant:
DOW Corning structural sealants are designed to provide long-term protection and performance in critical applications. They are used in a variety of applications, including industrial, marine, and construction.
Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your DOW Corning structural sealant:
Surface preparation:
The surface should be clean, dry, and free from dust, oil, and other contaminants before applying the sealant.
Joint design:
The joint design should be suitable for the application and allow for proper movement and stress relief.
Tooling:
The sealant should be tooled immediately after application to ensure a smooth and even finish.
Cure time:
The cure time of the sealant varies depending on temperature, humidity, and joint size. It is important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for cure time and avoid exposing the sealant to moisture or other contaminants during this time.
Final words:
All in all, Dow Corning Structural Sealants are the ideal choice for architects and builders looking for a strong and reliable sealant for building exterior and curtain walls. Its high tensile strength, excellent adhesion, weather resistance and temperature resistance make it suitable for a wide range of applications.
With proper surface preparation, joint design, tooling, and cure time, DOW Corning Structural Sealant can provide a durable and aesthetically pleasing seal for years to come.
