Backer Rod (Bi-Cellular Polyethylene)
Backer Rod (Bi-Cellular Polyethylene)
Size Options
3/8” (10 mm)
- Std Spool 3600’ (1097 m)
- Mini Spool 1800’ (549m)
5/8” (16 mm)
- Std Spool 1550’ (472 m)
- Mini Spool 775’ (236m)
7/8” (22 mm)
- Std Spool 850’ (259 m)
- Mini Spool 425’ (129m)
1-1/8” (29 mm)
- Std Spool 500’ (152 m)
- Mini Spool 220’ (67m)
PERFORMANCE
SOF Rod has an outer skin and resilient interior network of cells and helps cold-applied sealants
assume the optimum hourglass shape to prolong the sealant service life. It is commonly used in
applications such as expansion and contraction joints, window glazing, curtain wall construction
partitions, parking decks, bridge construction, modular home gasketing and log home chinking.
SOF Rod is comprised of an inert material, and therefore, it is physically and chemically
compatible with virtually all known cold-applied sealants including self-leveling types.
INSTALLATION
Prior to installing SOF Rod, the joints should be cleaned per the sealant manufacturer’s
recommendations. Thoroughly remove any concrete form-release agents, curing compound
reside, laitance or any foreign materials. To ensure a good sealant bond, joints must be clean and
dry when the new sealant is installed. Air compressors used for this purpose must be equipped with
traps for removal of oil and moisture. Install SOF Rod with a blunt tool at the depth recommended
by the sealant manufacturer.
Care should be taken not to puncture, over-compress or stretch SOF Rod during installation.
Proper size selection is important as it controls the depth of the sealant bead. It must be oversized
(25-50%) to fit tightly into the joint and function as a bond-breaker to prevent back-side adhesion
of the sealant. SOF Rod is not meant to be used with hot-pour sealants. Sealant compatibility
should be confirmed by the sealant manufacturer. Compatibility characteristics of sealants in
contact with sealant backings can be determined by ASTM C 1087 test method.