Caulking

Often time installed for aesthetic reasons, there are other numerous benefits for installing caulking around hardscape such as inhibiting water intrusions. Dependent upon concrete slab locations, or pitch, high water volume intrusion can cause erosion from beneath a slab. The presence of moisture beneath the slab in colder temperatures can also cause excessive slab heaving, creating trip hazards and slab cracking.

Although easily installed, and aesthetically pleasing, if not performed properly, benefits can last as little as a few weeks.

Requires dedication and a desire to perform all procedures properly and no one is more important than the other starting with surface preparation. Usually, a stiff wire brush is sufficient followed by vacuuming and wiping the surfaces with a dry cloth. If contaminants are present (old caulk remnants or other sealing products) scarifying the joint surfaces with a grinder is necessary. It’s important to note that the surfaces to receive the sealant are prepared. If a joint caulked, it is the vertical side surfaces which need preparation to the top joint surfaces. If the joint or crack to be sealed are experiencing excessive movement, then a caulk primer to maximize adhesion should be used. Caulking should then be installed in a neat and continuous bead. Expansion joints typically ½ inch up to 2’’ should be filled with a backer rod or fiber board to contain the caulking to be installed.

Typical Applications Include: Driveways, sidewalks, patios, pool decks, floor slabs, porches, etc.