Identify Failed Sealant Type
- Properly identify the failed sealant type in order to accurately assess the causes of failure and determine the appropriate restoration sealant.
- The sealant manufacturer (if known) can assist in identifying the failed sealant type (i.e. silicone, polyurethane, polysulfide, etc.) through laboratory analysis of sealant samples.
- If the incorrect sealant type was originally installed, ensure the appropriate replacement sealant type is identified prior to reapplication.
Refer to Pecora Technical Bulletin #103 Sealant Joint Inspection for more information.
Avoid Recurring Failures
- Choosing the correct replacement sealant is critical when restoring a failed sealant joint in order to avoid recurring sealant failures.
- Sealant selection will be determined by the type of failure/s experienced on the project i.e. excessive joint movement, incompatibilities, etc. Existing sealants can also have influence over the choice of the restoration sealant.
- Sealants that have failed due to excessive joint movement must be replaced with a sealant that can accommodate the actual joint movement occurring at the project. A sealant upgrade, with respect to movement class, will be required in these situations.
- Sealants that have failed due to early joint movement during sealant cure cycle must be replaced. The repair process involves either selection of a sealant that will perform under adverse conditions of early movement or waiting for extreme conditions to subside before undertaking repairs.
- Any sealant/substrate incompatibilities must be clearly identified and the appropriate testing must be conducted in order to determine the correct restoration sealant.
- If poor surface preparation or omission of sealant primer has caused the sealant failures, the sealant should be reinstalled per the manufacturer’s surface preparation and priming guidelines.
- If the failed sealant has significantly aged and has reached its maximum service life, all affected sealant should be replaced.
- If an improper sealant application was identified, the identical or appropriate alternate sealant may be reinstalled provided that the manufacturer’s published installation procedures are strictly followed.
Interior or Exterior Application?
- Careful consideration and review of manufacturer's data sheets should be performed in order to determine proper sealant for application.
Sealant Movement Capabilities
A sealant's designed movement capabilities (extension/ compression) are typically published in the manufacturer's product literature.
Be sure to choose a sealant that will accommodate the anticipated joint movement occurring at the project.
Color and Paintability
