Sealant joints in the external envelope of buildings: a guide to design, specification and construction (R178)

Today, most new buildings depend, in some part, on sealant joints to stop air and water getting inside. This comprehensive guide aims to promote good practice and better understanding for the use of sealants in the building envelope. Designers, specifiers, contractors, subcontractors and suppliers will find it contains valuable information on using sealant systems, wet applied sealants and sealing strips. Topics covered include function and requirements of sealant joints, sealant selection, joint design, construction details and installation. The guide emphasises the need for an iterative process of sealant selection, joint design and joint spacing and identifies the role played by different parties in the design and construction teams. Key words: materials, building technology, materials technology, housing.