Page 295 - Construction Waterproofing Handbook

SEALANTS 5.53
The higher strengths, including tensile, also result in a material that has much lower elon-
gation capabilities than silicone building sealants. Typically, the structural silicone adhesives
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have 2– 4 the elongation capability of superior silicone sealants. This does not mean the
adhesives are poorer performers, only that the required adhesion strengths necessary for opti-
mum performance in structural applications result in a lower elongation capability.
For nonstructural applications and those areas of glazing that are exposed to movement,
typical silicone sealants, as described previously, can be used. These materials provide
excellent movement capability with the necessary adhesion qualities required in glazing
applications. Manufacturers also produce a combination of adhesive and sealing materials
that can provide the necessary adhesion performance for light-duty applications, while at
the same providing the sealing and weatherproofing qualities necessary. These materials
have properties that fall between the high tensile and modulus of adhesion products and
the low- modulus, high-elongation proprieties of the building sealants. Manufacturers
should be consulted for appropriate products for specific installation requirements.