Primer for caulk - Contractor Talk - Professional Construction and Remodeling Forum

NAV · 05-15-2009, 11:39 AM

I am bidding a large caulking job - 110,000 L.F.

We have done a ton of caulking in the past with single component urethane. This project is 1/2 aluminum to aluminum (Dow Corning 790) and 1/2 wet glazing (Dow Corning 795)

the building is older and due to the size of the job I am sure they will be looking for a 10 to 20 year warranty on the caulking. My questions is for you guys that do caulking, Do you think that the primer is necessary to offer a warranty on the aluminum panels? I have read all the specs and know what Dow Corning recommends, I am looking for some personal experience advice.

The going rate for remove & replace caulking with backer rod and primer is $5 to $6 per linear foot in my area. If I don't prime I will be able to go in at $3.70 per linear foot plus lift equipment.

Also, with this project being so large I have to put together a schedule. I am going to figure 100 linear foot per man day. that's realistic isn't it?

Mr. Mike · 05-15-2009, 01:04 PM

Great question,

Kind of like my prime before re-glazing question I think. Seems like if they only recommend priming then you may be able to skip the priming step, not sure and I would not skip this step with out researching it further to see if it is possible.

JonM · 05-15-2009, 01:48 PM

I would want something in writing from someone who is an authority before I would skip any step....

NAV · 05-18-2009, 06:35 AM

Dow Corning responded to me saying that primer would be necessary if i use the 790 on the aluminum to aluminum joints. But if I go with the 795 on all joints the primer will not be necessary.

I think i will specify the 795 for the entire project. no need to complicate things with multiple materials and application methods.

Steve Richards · 05-18-2009, 11:50 AM

Sweet.

25 cases of caulk, 2 illegals, and a 500 foot extension ladder..and you're good to go.

vandyandsons · 05-18-2009, 05:21 PM

i've never done a caulking job nearly that size, but it seems that the no-prime product is the way to go.

100 lf per guy seems solid ,actually seems like a pro should be able to hit that pretty easily.