As we are now a few weeks into Fall, colder days are right around the corner. When it comes to fluid-applied coatings, cold weather has always posed a significant challenge, especially with traditional water-based formulations that cannot be applied below freezing temperatures. However, advancements in solvent-based coatings, like Pecora’s XL-Perm ULTRA VP, offer a solution for installations in cold conditions. This air, vapor, and water-resistive coating utilizes a hybrid STPU formulation, enabling it to be applied even at temperatures as low as 5°F (-18°C). To ensure optimal performance in these low-temperature environments, specific guidelines must be followed during the application process. Let’s explore how the XL-Perm ULTRA VP overcomes cold-weather limitations.
Traditional water based fluid applied coatings cannot be applied at temperatures below freezing due to inherent formulation limitations. Solvent based, high solids, fluid applied coatings are currently available and may be installed at temperatures below freezing. The Pecora XL-Perm ULTRA VP air, vapor and water resistive, fluid applied coating utilizes a solvent based, hybrid (STPU) formulation which allows the coating to be successfully applied at temperatures below freezing (32°F / 0°C). When installing the XL-Perm ULTRA VP at low temperatures, the following guidelines are to be followed:
- Areas to receive coating must be clean, dry and free of frost or any contaminating substances.
- Pecora XL-Perm ULTRA VP may be roller applied at ambient temperatures down to 5°F (-18°C). The following graph illustrates the change in product viscosity as temperature decreases.
- Pecora XL-Perm ULTRA VP spray applied at ambient temperatures below 60°F. The coating may be successfully spray applied at ambient temperatures below 60°F provided the proper airless sprayer equipment is utilized and the XL-Perm ULTRA VP coating is conditioned at a minimum 65°F. Refer to page 12 of this manual or Pecora Technical Bulletin #202 “XL-Perm ULTRA VP Application Guidelines” for details.
- Low temperatures & relative humidity will reduce the cure rate of moisture cure, fluid applied coatings. The Pecora XL-Perm ULTRA VP hybrid (STPU) formulation is less sensitive to low temperature / relative humidity than competitive chemistries and will continue to cure at these conditions. See table below for skin times and cure rates at low temperature / relative humidity:
Pecora’s XL-Perm ULTRA VP fluid-applied air barrier continuously offers reliable performance. Its solvent-based hybrid formulation allows for flexibility and durability, even in freezing temperatures. By following the recommended guidelines for surface preparation, application techniques, and equipment usage, you can ensure the XL-Perm ULTRA VP achieves its full potential, delivering strong protection against air, vapor, and water. When it comes to low-temperature coatings, Pecora provides a trusted solution that performs even in the most challenging conditions. To learn more about this product and the other air barrier product offerings, please visit our website at https://www.pecora.com/products/air-barriers/.
