Cold weather affects the performance and storage methods of silicone sealant. In outdoor construction, we usually use weather-resistant silicone sealant, so how to apply silicone sealant in low temperature?
1. Problems with winter silicone sealant application
(1) Thickening of sealants
In winter, the temperature is low, and the sealant will thicken and the extrusion performance will deteriorate. Therefore, during the construction process, the extrusion pressure is relatively high when the sealant is applied manually with a sealant gun. And you may notice that the sealant is thick and difficult to apply.
(2) Slow curing of sealants
Under low temperature conditions, the curing speed of silicone sealants is slower than normal. If the joints change before the sealant is cured, it is easy to cause bulges or cracks on the surface of the sealant.
(3) Poor adhesion
When the temperature is too low, the wettability of the sealant and the substrate surface is reduced, and there may be imperceptible fog or frost on the substrate surface, which affects the adhesion between the sealant and the substrate.
2. How to apply sealant at low temperatures?
(1) Grasp the time of application
It is recommended to carry out construction around noon. Affected by the humidity and temperature in the air, the temperature of the substrate surface is low in the morning and evening, which will be accompanied by different degrees of shrinkage. It is easy to cause bulging or curing difficulties after applying glue.
(2) Pay attention to the temperature of the construction environment
Before construction, you must pay attention to the marked use temperature range requirements. It is recommended to conduct a small area glue test and adhesion test before large-scale construction.
(3) Storage of sealant
It should be stored in a dry and cool room as much as possible, and the temperature should not be lower than the storage temperature marked by the manufacturer. If the situation does not allow, it can only be placed outdoors, and protective insulation measures should be taken.
In general, winter silicone sealant application requires attention to multiple aspects to ensure the construction quality and effect. Take corresponding measures to overcome the challenges brought by the low temperature environment can we ensure that silicone sealants still have good performance in winter.