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Community and Q&A

Caulk vs Gaskets

Arapahoe | Posted in Green Building Techniques on

We are starting to price out caulks and gaskets for new home construction this summer. Does anyone have any input as to the efficiency, speed, time to install different caulks or gaskets at the critical locations? In my mind it seems easier and quicker to spooge caulk everywhere, whereas these gaskets look like they need stapled or applied via an adhesive backer. Thoughts experience is greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
Ryan

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Replies

  1. GBA Editor
    Martin Holladay | | #1

    Ryan,
    You may be right about spooging speed, but a high-quality gasket will probably outperform caulk. Here's more information: Air-Sealing Tapes and Gaskets.

  2. albertrooks | | #2

    Ryan,

    Reconsider caulking as air-sealing. It will fail as the joints change shape or both the caulk or substrate dries. Get to know tapes and gaskets. There are many good products on the market. In the end, both can be done reasonably quickly as your skill grows and the extra time will return it's investment by preventing air leaks opening up later. In this case, as with many, quality will cost less in the end.

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