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Check Mate 2 Application Instructions
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Longitudinal cracks (called “checks”) in logs, timbers and
siding can allow air, water and insects to get into logs and occasionally into
the interior of your home. Rainwater
may accumulate in checks, creating an environment conducive to wood rot.
Caulking may seem like an obvious solution for the problem, but ordinary
caulking compounds are very limited in their ability to effectively seal cracks
and checks. They generally do not
have adequate adhesion and elongation to withstand the rigorous conditions posed
by the repeated opening and closing of a check from season to season.
Check Mate 2 is a specially formulated sealant specifically
designed for filling cracks and checks in log walls.
It forms a tough, smooth elastic seal that prevents water from getting
into the wood and cold air into the home.
It has outstanding color stability, is resistant to UV light degradation
and resists mold and mildew. Once
dry, Check Mate 2 will accept a stain.
It is especially important to seal upward-facing checks
that accumulate water. If left
unsealed, these will be sites where rot will start in the logs.
If you have old checks where rot is a risk, be sure to apply Shell-Guard®
or Shell-Guard® RTU before sealing them with Check Mate 2.
Application Limitations: Do not apply in direct, hot
sunlight, when the temperature is below 40°F or when rain is imminent.
APPLICATION DIRECTIONS:
1. Begin by
cleaning any dust, dirt, oil, solvent or previous sealer out of the check.
Previously applied caulks can usually be easily pulled or scraped out.
If the check is upward-facing or has allowed previous water penetration,
pour some Shell-Guard or Shell-Guard RTU into it and allow to dry before
proceeding. This will kill any decay
fungi present and prevent further deterioration of the log due to rot.
2. For checks
1/4" wide or larger, insert the Backer Rod supplied with the Check Kit.
You can use a trowel or other implement to push the Backer Rod about 3/8”
to 1/2” deep into the check (Picture A).
If you push it deeper than 1/2” the cured Check Mate 2 will be too thick
and may actually rip the wood from the sides of the check.
If the Backer Rod is placed too close to the surface the Check Mate 2 may
end up too thin and split.
3. Use masking
tape to mask off the wood on either side of the check (Picture B).
Be sure to remember to remove the masking tape right after you apply the
Check Mate 2. If you remove the
masking tape after the Check Mate 2 has begun to cure you will pull the top
layer of Check Mate off along with the masking tape.
4. Cut the tip of the Check Mate 2 tube to about the same
diameter as the checks you plan to fill (a little smaller diameter is better
than too large). Then fill the
check with Check Mate 2 using a standard caulk gun.
The Check Mate 2 must have good contact
with wood on either side of the check and be sure the crack or check is
completely sealed from end to end.
5. Tool the
surface smooth with a trowel, spatula or wet finger and remove overflow
immediately with a damp cloth (Picture C).
Don't forget that the masking tape must be removed while the Check Mate 2
is still wet.
6. Check Mate 2
will dry to the touch in about one hour but complete curing may take several
days depending on application thickness, temperature and weather conditions.
Note: Newly applied Clear Check Mate 2 is white but turns clear when
cured.
Clean Up: Wash hands and tools with
soap and warm water.
Store tubes of Check Mate 2 in cool, dry place.
DO NOT ALLOW TO FREEZE.
© Perma-Chink Systems, Inc. 07/2007 |
