Concrete Join Sealer; Hot vs Cold

[GoldDredger]

Our construction specs call for a hot rubberized joint sealer for site concrete. The contractor is trying to convince the owner that cold applied sealants are just as good, and more commonly used now.

Does anyone have any opinion or experience concrete sealants, cold or hot?

Thanks.

 

[Ron]

Hot sealants are rarely used outside the aviation applications. Most commercial projects use cold joint sealants for pavement slabs.

Hot application and cold application are significantly different. For cold application, make sure the sealant is properly profiled in the joint and has a backer rod.

Most cold joint sealants for concrete applications are urethane, either one or two part formulations.

Check with Vulkem/Tremco for sealant and details.

 

[GeoPaveTraffic]

When I worked with a local city in the mid-west, we used hot pour sealants on all our streets.

Our estimate was that cold pour, if properly installed would last longer; but if not properly installed would not last well at all.

 

[hokie66]

In addition to Ron's comments about proper application of cold applied sealants, it is also essential to use the recommended primer.