How to do it – Joints

Get off to a good start:

A good and attractive result of the grouting work does not only depend on thorough work and the choice of grout. The grouting work itself must also be carried out correctly.

The sides or adhesive surfaces of the joint must always be clean and free of abrasives, dust and loose particles. Before applying sealant or possibly primer, it is often an advantage to use masking tape, which gives the nicest result. It also makes the subsequent processing and cleaning work easier.

Primer:

On porous or special materials, it is – in some cases – necessary to apply a primer to improve the adhesion of the joint compound. On absorbent surfaces, brass and copper, Primer 961 is recommended. Recommended on non-absorbent surfaces Primer 960.

Note that the primer must be completely dry before applying the sealant. The primer is applied with a brush. Avoid applying primer to anything other than the joint surfaces, as this will be visible after drying. Most primers contain solvents and must be handled with caution.

Joint bond:

Application of the joint base must ensure a good resistance when applying the joint compound. Choose a dimension that is 25% larger than the width of the joint. Joint bond is applied with a blunt tool, e.g. the round side of the joint stick. If the joint base is damaged in the surface, grouting should only take place after 24 hours due to risk of blistering in the joint.

Plastic joints and elastic joints:

In order to get a functional joint, it is very important that the joint only adheres on the two joint sides.

If the joint also adheres to the bottom, the joint cannot move correctly and this will result in a reduction in elasticity by up to 70%. In joints where elastic joint compounds such as Sealflex Hybrid 522 or Danaseal Construction are used 515, it is recommended to only use round joint compound 980, while for plastic joints square joint compound 983 is used. Elastic joints are clearly preferable, as they have the best elasticity and the surface of the joint is pill-proof. Plastic joints are preferably used on adhesive surfaces, where a similar product has been used previously, to ensure as good adhesion as possible and because it is difficult to use an elastic type of joint compound. Example of oil-based plastics sealants are Da Mastic 551 or Fugemastic 544. In order to ensure a long service life of the joint surface and reduce the risk of damage, there must be a suitable ratio between the width and depth of the performed joint.

As a rule of thumb, elastic joints are dimensioned so that the joint should be half as deep as it is wide.

For plastic joints, the rule of thumb is that the joint should be as deep as it is wide. The depth of a joint always means the highest point on the bag top (in the middle).

Grouting:

The grout cartridge or bag is mounted in the grout gun and the grout is applied with an even and calm movement. The joint is then pressed carefully into place with a joint stick that has been stored for a minimum of 24 hours in GlittevÄkus 901. The grout stick should be sanded with wet sanding paper before use to achieve an optimal surface on the joint stick, which is crucial for a great result. This is best done by pressing the joint from below upwards to ensure the best adhesion to the panels. After this, the joint is smoothed from top to bottom with the Glitteliquid saturated joint stick. By using GlittevÊkku 901, you also achieve that it is possible to refill grout, as GlittevÊkku 901 does not contain abrasives.

If masking tape has been used, this must be removed as soon as the grouting has been completed, so that the grout does not harden into the tape.

Fugen’s future prospects:

Joints must be cleaned and inspected at regular intervals. Any damage must be repaired or replaced to ensure the function of the joint. General cleaning is best done with a soft brush. And cleaned with water with added brown soap, chlorine, spirit of salmiac or sulpho. If chemical corrosive products are used, it is very important to rinse thoroughly with clean water. When cleaning joints, it is important not to cause mechanical wear, as the joint compound in some cases be destroyed.

If the above advice is followed, you can enjoy beautiful functional joints for many years!