Details, Details, Details: Caulking - Part 3

In the last entry I continued my discussion about how important sealants are by explaining the different types of sealants that are available.  Today I want to discuss the types of sealants that should be used with a Stucco or EIFS cladding system.

The type of sealant that is used on a Stucco or EIF system is a large determining factor in whether or not moisture intrusion will occur.  The sealant that is used must be have a number of unique characteristics to perform properly.  Some of those include:

1) Adhesion – the sealant must adhere/bond to the substrate or building material it is applied to.

2) Weatherability – the sealant must not be affected by sunlight, rain, snow, etc…

3) Joint Movement Capability – the sealant must be able to flex or compress without failing when the substrates it is adhered to flex or compress.

Sealants that are recommended for Stucco & EIFS are either silicone based or polyurethane based.  The biggest difference between silicone & polyurethane sealants is that the silicone is not paintable and the polyurethane is paintable.  Both types of sealants have all of the required characteristics that are needed for Stucco or EIFS to perform properly. 

Manufacture’s of these sealants have designed products specifically for Stucco & EIFS that are compatible with these unique cladding systems.  They offer a wide range of colors including custom color matching so that the sealant blends naturally into the design of the home or building.