Fixing air leaks goes a long way toward helping homeowners make significant strides in improving energy efficiency and creating a weathertight home.
To help you choose the right caulk to seal the air leaks in your Route 495/128-area home, follow this simple guide:
- Household silicone -- This type of sealant is used to close up smaller cracks and gaps such as those found around door and window frames. You can also use it as a sealant around metal joints.
- Construction silicone -- A powerful sealant, construction silicone is useful for its ability to adhere differing materials like stone, brick or wood, allowing flexibility along the adjoining materials.
- Polyurethane (expandable spray foam) -- This spray foam expands when applied, making it perfect for larger gaps. And you can use it both inside and outside the home. If used outside, it must be painted to protect it from the sun's rays.
- Water-based foam -- Another expandable spray foam, water-based foam is intended for use with smaller cracks and gaps. One great feature of this sealant is that it doesn't produce any greenhouse gases, which means it's safe for the environment. It can also be used with new construction, as it will not affect windows due to over-expansion.
- Butyl rubber -- If you need to seal dissimilar materials (wood, plastic or glass), this sealant is an ideal choice. It binds well and lasts many years. Although more durable than polyurethane, which can also bind dissimilar materials, this sealant is toxic, so exercise caution when using it. Also keep in mind that it won't stick to painted surfaces, but can be painted over after curing for a week.
- Oil/resin-based -- This type of sealant is inexpensive, and can be used to seal joints on building materials and exterior seams. The drawback is that it is not very durable and will only last a few years, at most. Also, painting over it is advised.
If you would like further assistance with creating a weathertight home or choosing the right caulk for your needs, or for any questions regarding home comfort, please contact the experts at Rodenhiser Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning. We have been serving the Route 495/128 area of Massachusetts for more than 80 years.
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When you are looking for plumbing, electrical, heating or air conditioning in the Route 495 / 128 area, you will be delighted that you called Massachusetts' trusted choice since 1928.
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