TYPES AND USES OF BACKER ROD

A backer rod is a relatively small foam cord or rod that is used in filling joints that exist between tiles or any other building materials. Most contractors and builders use this tool to seal cracks and grooves then apply mortar or a sealant around it. The rod is designed to bring more stability and add precision; it also saves a lot of time for the builders. There are two variants of the backer rod; these are the open-cell and the closed-cell. In most cases, these two can be used interchangeably. However, the open-cell is ideal for indoor areas where there is less moisture. The closed-cell versions are meant for the patios, decks and walkways located outdoor. They add more insulation and waterproofing. In both cases, these tools are not that important but they can significantly improve the durability and appearance of a project.

The backer rod has numerous uses for the builders in most of the construction projects. The main use is always to do with filling gaps where building materials join. They are more common in tiles and floors but can also be spotted in decorative wall panels, stonework, counter tops and window seals. The main objective is to use this foam to fill all the voids in a joint so that caulking can be applied to finish the area and make it both airtight and waterproof. These tools are also good at adding accuracy and making the structure firmer. The finished look is always better with the rods used.

The rods are available in different sizes that range from ¼ inch to 4 inches diameter or sometimes even larger. Most of the retailers sell them to order but it can also be available in small packages that have already been cut. The larger distributors and contractors usually purchase their rod in bulk. In most cases, there are different specifications for different projects. This means that the rod needed for the bathroom is not necessarily the same as that needed for the kitchen counters. The distinction between the open-cell and closed-cell rod is the density of the foam. In the open-cell rod, the used material is usually airy and breathable but denser than the one in the closed-cell rod. The open-cell rods are the easiest to handle when it comes to installation mainly because they are pliable and soft. The larger diameter pieces can be compressed to make them fit into gaps that have varying thicknesses. When using backer rod the work is done faster and the results are more dependable.