In Michigan, most of us love having the 4 seasons. But, winter presents a few issues for caulking contractors working outside. Most material data sheets say something along the lines of “best applied above 40 degrees.”
With a few tips, you can continue working in the cold with the right materials:
- Make sure all surfaces are clean and dry before applying any sealant. This also means NO FROST.
- Keep your caulking materials warm before applying. They gun out easier and bond to a cold surface better if they are kept warm.
- Use a high-quality Urethane Hybrid or Silicone Sealant. They are naturally water repellent and impervious to water as soon as they are tooled to a dry surface.
- Ditch the ratchet style applicator and use a high thrust caulk gun with at least a 12:1 mechanical ratio. These make it easier for you to squeeze the trigger and apply thick material.
- Be aware that sealants cure slower in low temperatures and low humidity. They will stay tacky longer and take longer to fully set up. Make sure they are not in areas that will be traveled on or touched until cured.
- Do not use water-based latex below freezing temperatures, especially if there is any type of precipitation in the forecast. Water-based material can freeze before curing. Two major issues can happen as it thaws and cures: Cracking or bleeding and running down the substrate if it gets wet before cure.
We carry high-quality sealants from Pecora Corp and GE Silicones to meet your needs. There are multiple options and colors to choose from, depending on the type of application you have.