Teakdecking Systems SIS 440 Teak Deck Caulking User Guide
SIS 440 Teak Deck Caulking
The Proven Leader for Marine Applications
SIS 440 TEAK DECK CAULKING
SIS440 Caulk is the proven leader in the marine industry and was developed specifically for teak deck seams. It is a one-part, paste-like neutral cure formulation and when exposed to moisture in the air, it reacts to form a tough, flexible solid rubber compound. The sealant does not sag during cure, and has excellent temperature stability and chemical resistance once cured. Because the sealant is neutral cure, it is non-corrosive to all substrates.
TECHNICAL PROCEDURE SHEET
The Proper Composition of a Caulk Seam
Preparation of Seam
All surfaces of the seam must be dry, dust free, and cleaned with acetone on a clean rag to remove any contaminants that would thwart proper adhesion. Isopropyl alcohol may be used, but acetone is strongly recommended. Do not use de-natured alcohol, as this will cause separation of the seam from the substrate after curing.
Seam Design
Three sided adhesion will limit the amount of movement that a seam can accept before failing. TDS recommends applying bond breaker tape at the base of every seam to create two-sided adhesion, which allows the sides of the seam to work independently from the bottom, increasing flexibility.
Complete Filling of Seam
Seam must be completely filled from bottom to top, without voids or air bubbles, allowing sealant to make full contact to sides of seam. This is achieved by forcing the tip of the caulk gun close to the bottom of the seam when filling. Drag a flexible putty knife at a 30-degree angle to smooth the excess caulking into the seam, applying pressure to slightly bend the blade. Scrape up the excess caulk, leaving the caulk bead proud of the deck to allow for approximately 5-10% product shrinkage. Please review sealant application instructions for the proper procedure to minimize chance of seam failure.
Atmospheric Conditions during Curing
Sealant should be applied at a time of day when the seam surface is cool and will not experience extreme temperature or moisture changes.
Seam Composition as Recommended by TDS
Use of polypropylene bond breaker tape in seams of 6mm and deeper. It aids to achieve 2-sided adhesion. The bottom of seam must be flat and square. The caulk seam should be able to move at the base of the seam, as the deck flexes and works.
Seam Composition NOT Recommended by TDS
Use of a backer rod does not ensure a good, tight seal at the base of the seam. Absence of a full backing enables panels to flex prior to installation. This flex could affect integrity of caulked seams. A proper caulk seam must be filled entirely to the bottom.
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS
IMPORTANT – Read this first!
Seams must be clean and dry. Surrounding wood should have 12% moisture or less. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO CAULK WET SEAMS. Work under cover when possible, otherwise only open as much seam as can be cleaned and re-caulked without additional moisture or contamination getting into the seams.
When caulking, the ambient temperature should be between 40 – 90°F (5-33°C). In the tropics, work in a shaded area to prevent “bubbling” of caulk due to extreme deck temperatures. At lower temperatures, additional curing time is required because there is typically less humidity.
Make sure the sausage or cartridge has a temperature above 64°F (18°C) to improve the viscosity of the caulk.
White & Gray Special Instructions
Installation Guidelines and After-Care Suggestions
Teakdecking Systems SIS 440 Teak Deck Caulking in white and gray offers the same performance results as black caulk, but their different pigmentation formulas make it necessary to adapt procedures for application, cure time, sanding, and general maintenance. The lighter colored caulks are not as “forgiving” as black caulk and are subject to environmental staining and possible discoloration.
IMPORTANT: Follow all instructions as written on the cartridge or foil “sausage” packaging.
The information below is supplemental and does not replace the instructions.
Installation Guidelines
Preparing and Cleaning the Seams
For all SIS 440 Teak Deck Caulking products from Teakdecking Systems (TDS), special care is required to properly prepare and clean the seam wall prior to caulking.
Work under cover when possible, otherwise only open as much seam as can be cleaned and re-caulked in the same day.
- Perform final sand of seam sides with a TDS Seam Sander or similar tool. This should fair the seam’s surfaces, roughen remaining mill marks or saw ‘polishing,’ and also remove any wood grain filaments.
- Thorough cleaning with a vacuum or air blower is mandatory to remove sawdust or other contaminants. Then the seams must be carefully cleaned with lint-free clean cotton rags and acetone. Caution: Contaminants left in the seams may show within the cured white and gray caulk (not as noticeable in black caulk).
Re-Seam Preparation: Old residue must be fully removed and this is best accomplished with a seam saw or router. ATTENTION: Butt joints must be cut back to new wood.
Bedding Compounds: Residue may be present on a new deck if installed in a bedding material. This residue must be fully removed from seams.
Seam Moisture Content: Must be 12% or less in surrounding wood. Do not caulk wet seams. - After all residue has been removed from the new or re-seamed deck, continue with seam prep instructions to sand, vacuum, and de-oil seams before starting the caulking. Failure to take these steps may cause seam failure.
CAUTION: Do not use wood primers intended for other caulk products as that will defeat the adhesion of the product, void the warranty, and may cause staining within the cured caulking. Most caulk applications to new teak will only require following our detailed “SIS 440 Application and Maintenance Instructions.” (See our Products Catalog or contact us.) However, we recommend use of a bondbreaker tape in the base of a seam (>3/16” or 5mm).
Filling the Seams
- To facilitate filling, cut tip of nozzle on an angle, puncture foil seal, then squeeze tip with pliers so nozzle fits into seam.
- Fill seams from the bottom up and slightly overfill so that caulk is proud (1-2mm) of the deck surface after spooning.
Allow to cure in this configuration. If caulking cures below the deck surface it may trap contaminants within the caulk.
For deeper seams (>¾” or 20mm): Careful attention is needed to completely fill deep seams from the bottom up. Caulk should be proud of surface 2mm when finished.
Cure Time and Sanding
Caulk is moisture cured. Cure time is a function of (1) cross-sectional dimensions of the seam and (2) ambient temperature and humidity of the work area. Conditions of cold or very dry air increase cure time. Generally, the caulking cures from the top down at a rate of about 1 to 2 millimeters per day. A seam of ¼” (6.4mm) under normal conditions (approximately 74°F/23°C at 50% relative humidity) will be ready for sanding in 8-12 days. When using white and gray caulk, allowing additional curing time is strongly recommended. For larger seams (¼”-¾” or 6.4- 19.2mm) or in colder, dryer conditions, a minimum 12-day cure is recommended.
Problems Caused by Premature Sanding of Caulk Seams
Premature sanding of caulking that is not fully cured may result in shrinkage, deformation, and ‘dragging’ or wrinkling of the caulk surface. It may also cause premature seam failure. This must be avoided because uncured caulking will absorb the sanding dust as well as other contaminants, causing discoloration and potential compromising of the seam.
When sanding white and gray caulk seams, it is helpful to start with 80 grit and then ‘finish sand’ with 100 or 120 grit sandpaper. This ‘fine sanding’ helps to smooth the caulk and will assist in preventing contaminants from accumulating in the small crevices.
After-Care Suggestions for Caulk Maintenance, Cleaning, and Repair
Maintenance
Light colored deck caulking is like other light colored accessories such as boat cushions and upholstery. Dirt and contaminants will show more and require more maintenance.
Caulk is a flexible material, so seams may raise and lower depending upon the moisture content of the teak. If seams remain high (relative to deck surface level) for more than six months it may be necessary to sand or cut the seams to plank level. Walking on high seams creates pressure and may cause damage to seams.
Deck should be evaluated periodically. High seams will restrict water flow off the deck. A light sanding may be necessary to maintain good appearance and will actually extend the life of the deck.
Cleaning
Teak releases oil naturally and this oil will discolor caulk, showing more on white and gray caulk. This teak oil is most prominent on new decks and will diminish as the teak ages. Other oils, sealers, and coatings are likely to show more against light colored caulk too. Dirt, soot, or oily stains left on a deck for extended periods of time may leach into the caulking and cause staining and discoloration. Note: Although caulk will bond to a varnished surface, varnish will NOT properly adhere to SIS 440 Teak Deck Caulking.
- Normal Cleaning – Use TDS ECO-100 (Powder) and ECO-300 (Liquid) Teak Cleaners, designed to be used as often as desired. They are both U.S. Clean Marina and MARPOL compliant for safe discharge into any waterway or marina. When possible, use these cleaners with medium grit scrubbing pads (e.g. Scotchbrite-type “red” medium grit). These are very effective and will help to smooth the deck. Regular scubbing across the grain is sufficient between sandings. Problematic stains such as diesel, wine, fish blood, etc. must be cleaned immediately with the ECO-100 or ECO-300 Teak Cleaners. If this is not possible then spot cleaners such as K2R Marine Cleaner or Dawn dish soap can also be effective.
- Stubborn Stains – A light sanding of the seam with 80 grit sandpaper may remove stain(s). For best results, finish the seam with 100 or 120 grit sandpaper to ensure a smoother finish on the caulk surface.
Repair
For particularly stubborn stains that cannot be removed, or if the caulk is gouged/damaged, it is easy to make a repair. Cut out a small amount of caulk in a “V” shape; wipe with a clean lint-free rag soaked in acetone; then tape and re-caulk the area with SIS 440 Teak Deck Caulking. It will strongly adhere to the old SIS 440 Teak Deck Caulking, making it impossible to separate the old and new caulk areas once cured. To help blend the color, you may lightly sand the repaired area after curing or simply wait. With time, repairs will be almost impossible to see.
GENERAL PROCEDURES
Inspecting the Deck
Hose down the deck with water. As the deck is drying, observe wet spots that do not dry completely. These are areas that probably need further attention, i.e., new plugs, additional caulk repair, etc.
Repairing/Replacing Damaged Boards
- To repair a small crack in a teak batten, use a razor blade knife to clean and fill the crack with 1:1 TEAKDECKING SYSTEMS AP-100 All Purpose Epoxy.
- To repair a large crack or chip, router out the damaged area and insert a piece of teak (Dutchman). Fasten with 1:1 TEAKDECKING SYSTEMS AP-100 All Purpose Epoxy.
Re-seaming
If caulking is low or not adhering to the side of deck planks, seam repairs are needed. This requires removing the old caulk from the seams and preparing the wood for new caulk. This process can be labor intensive and we recommend following these steps:
- Perform light sanding of the decks with 60-80 grit depending on condition to create a smooth, even deck surface.
This is needed if a saw or router is used to cut out the old caulk from seams. A smooth surface makes it easier to perform the final sanding and detailing because it will minimize the amount of caulk that could get into the grooves of a weathered deck, and will minimize the amount of sanding needed after the re-seaming is complete. - Remove old caulk by one of these methods:
Option 1: Use a razor knife to cut along the edge of the caulk. Then using a caulk removal tool (or “reefing hook”) to dig out the caulk from seams.
Option 2: Use a router or circular saw to clean out the seam. This method requires more skill. - Once the caulk is removed, make sure both sides of the seam have dry wood at least 5mm (3/16”) deep.
- Vacuum all dust from the seams and wipe the seams with acetone before applying caulk. Seams must be clean for adhesion of the caulk.
- Use Bond Breaker (fine line) tape if the seam has a rabbet and a minimum depth of 5mm (3/16”). Please see “Proper Composition of a Caulk Seam.”
- Recaulk using TDS SIS440 Caulk. Follow all application instructions listed on package and in this guide.
NOTE: Under no circumstances should moisture or water be let into the seams during this process.
Plugging Repairs
Old plugs or cracked plugs can be removed using a small chisel to break them out of the bored hole. Once removed,
re-bore the hole using a hole cutter. If sides of holes are damaged, increase the diameter of the cutter and new plug.
Insert new plug, aligning its grain direction with the teak grain, applying TEAKDECKING SYSTEMS AP-100 All Purpose
Epoxy completely around the new plug. Let epoxy cure before cutting plug. Cut in grain direction leaving extra wood on
top surface for “shaving” or sanding. This will ensure plug remains flush with and not below top surface.
Resurfacing Deck
Completely sand the deck using an 8” Grinder or a 6” Dual Action sander, with a soft sanding pad and sanding disc.
NOTE: The grit of the sandpaper to be used depends on the condition of the deck. If the deck is in bad condition, start with 40 grit and finish with 80-100 grit.
IMPORTANT: To avoid gouging the teak, hold the pad flat to the deck. Vacuum up the dust.
Finish on Exterior Teak Decking
We do not recommend any finish on exterior teak decking. However, if a sealer is to be used, be sure to choose a brand that does not contain kerosene or other petroleum products, such as TDS Sealer & Protector or SEMCO TEAK SEALER (contains petroleum and will cause caulk to swell). Any sealer containing a petroleum distillate may cause damage to the caulking over time.
Before applying any sealer, clean teak or other wood items well with one of the ECO Cleaners. Make sure all grease, dirt, and oil is removed from the teak. After cleaning, rinse the teak thoroughly with fresh water and let it dry.
Do not use sealer on a damp or wet surface or in direct sunlight during the heat of the day.
TIPS FROM THE EXPERTS
Wood Moisture Content
Teak for decking applications should have 12% moisture content (MC) to create a strong bond between the fresh wood surface and SIS440 Caulk. Often, moisture content of fresh imported wood is greater than 12%, commonly measuring 18%. If caulk is applied to this high moisture content wood (wet wood) the adhesion of the caulk will diminish as the wood naturally dries.
Transport with Fully Cured Seams
The moving and transporting of the teak panels should be done very carefully. This is especially true if panels have been constructed without any backing to stabilize them. If the seams on the panels have not fully cured yet, bending of the panels can stretch the uncured SIS440 and leave gaps and splits in the seams after the panels have been installed. Avoid bending uncured panels.
Proper Glue Choice
TDS FFE 200 Epoxy is recommended for bonding teak, because use of other glues can negatively affect adhesion. If a single-component glue such as Sika 298 is used, it is critical to remove 100% of residue from the seams. This glue reacts with SIS440 Caulk and creates adhesion issues inside the seams. Single-component polyurethane glues are very flexible and allow the movement of the wood which negatively affects adhesion.
Cutting & Sanding Methods
We recommend cutting away any excess caulk with a sharp chisel or other suitable tool, before proceeding with the deck surface sanding. However, in order to avoid undesired sanding marks on the fresh seams, we recommend cutting away the excess caulk to start the sanding AFTER WAITING 72+ HOURS. Final sanding grit to use on Gray and White seams is 100-120 grit.
Shrinkage for White & Gray Caulk
SIS440 Caulk in white and gray will shrink somewhat when applied. To avoid having low seams, we recommend leaving 1 or 2mm extra caulking above a fresh seam. This does not imply that the customer should not spoon the product once applied. If spooning is not performed, then the adhesion will be reduced. If more than 1-2 mm extra caulking remains on top of the seams, this will negatively affect the full curing of the caulk to the wood.
Curing Time for White & Gray Caulk
The curing time for SIS440 Caulk in white and gray is stated as 12 days, but the curing time can be affected by varying temperatures and humidity. SIS440 Caulk requires humidity to fully cure. If the application takes place during winter and the humidity drops to low levels because of freezing, then curing will slow down drastically. The use of heaters will not promote the curing, unless there is adequate humidity. Further, heaters can reduce the humidity and curing may stop. If caulk is applied outdoors with freezing temperatures outside, then curing will take much longer than the usual stated period of 12 days. Reminder: The depth and width of the seams will affect curing time too.
Mold & Fungus
SIS440 Caulk in White and Gray contain anti-mold ingredients, but if the seams are sanded rough and left in humid conditions mold and fungus may grow. Dust residue may gather in the small pores of the “rubber” and will allow mold to grow. This is the reason why we recommend sanding fresh white or gray caulk with a fine 100 or 120 grit sandpaper.
PRODUCT BENEFITS
For unbiased reviews, see “Practical Sailor” articles; link on teakdecking.com
Customers choose SIS-440 for these proven benefits…
PRODUCT INFO SHEET
Safety and Reliability
During cure, the sealant may irritate eyes. Care should be taken to read all caution labels and statements. Use with adequate ventilation.
SIS 440 Teak Deck Caulk is a high quality marine polymer which meets or exceeds Federal Specifications TT-S-00230C,
TT-S-001543A, and American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) C920, and is manufactured in an ISO 9001 facility.
Shelf Life & Storage
Store in a dry area at temperatures above 32°F (0°C) and below 80°F (26°C). Do not expose to direct sunlight, extreme heat, or freezing. The sealant has a shelf life of 18 months from manufacture date. See “BEST USED BY” date on packaging.
Handling Suggestions
- Read and follow instructions printed on the packaging.
- Paint and varnish do not adhere well to caulking. We do not recommend their application to caulking. However, caulking bonds well to paint and varnish.
- If the cartridge or sausage is not completely emptied, simply extrude approximately 1/8” beyond the tip, let cure, and the ready-made plug can be pulled out easily when use is required again for up to two weeks.
- CLEANUP: Use mineral spirits to clean caulk from your hands and tools. NEVER USE MINERAL SPIRITS IN TEAK SEAMS (acetone only).
Other Applications*
- Bedding deck equipment/hardware
- Bedding parts (steps, pads, etc.)
- Caulk seams in other wood decks
- Edges around sealed windows
- Construction
NOTICE: The information herein is based on data available to us, and is believed reliable. Since the use of this product is beyond our control, there is no expressed or implied warranty of results, or that such use will not infringe on any patents. The product is furnished on the condition that the user will determine its suitability, and that the user assumes all legal responsibility, and that neither seller nor manufacturer shall be liable for any injury, loss, damage or consequential loss, arising from use or inability to use the product. We make no guarantee that the suggested health and safety precautions will be adequate for all individuals and/or situations.
NOTE: SIS440 is not designed for use under the waterline. *Contact us for further details
PROFESSIONAL TOOLS
Caulk Removal Tool (“Reefing Hook”)
The Caulk Removal Tool can be used before re-caulking to remove caulk or other sealants from a seam. A razor knife should be used to free the caulk from the sides of the seam. The Caulk Removal Tool will remove most of the caulking, leaving minimal material for final hand sanding with the Seam Sander.
- Specially designed, stainless steel construction
- Ergonomic rubber handle
- Designed for long service; can be re-sharpened
Seam Sander
Designed for vertical sanding of seam walls to remove old material before recaulking, the Seam Sander ensures the best possible preparation for new caulk to bond to the teak. Use it to remove final residue of caulking, leaving a totally clean surface for the new caulk to bond to.
- Specially designed and constructed for long service life
- Professional in ease and speed of operation
- Made of the finest quality steel and hardwood
- Manufactured with a comfortable, smooth grip
- Adjustable depth sanding surface from 5mm to 22mm (3/16” – 7/8”)
- Kit consists of handle, sanding surface & six sanding pads
- Sandpaper strip replacements available
Caulking Gun (Sausage)
Caulking Gun for use with 20 oz (592ml) sausage packaging convenience and less waste.
- Manual or pneumatic
- High quality
- Adjustable flow
- Faster for large jobs
- Less changing out of cartridges
- Better for the environment and less waste
Bond Breaker Tape
Applied to the base of every seam creates two-sided adhesion, allowing the seam wall to work independently from the bottom, increasing flexibility.
- Multiple widths (1/8”, 3/16”, 1/4” or 3.2mm, 4.8mm, 6.4mm)
- Length is 60 yards (54.9m)
- Limits the amount of movement of a seam
On decks around the world
Visit teakdecking.com to find a local distributor
Teakdecking Systems
7061 15th Street East, Sarasota, FL 34243
Tel: +1 941 756 0600
Fax: +1 941 756 0406
Mail: products@teakdecking.com
www.teakdecking.com
Read More About This Manual & Download PDF:
Documents / Resources
 |
Teakdecking Systems SIS 440 Teak Deck Caulking [pdf] User Guide SIS 440 Teak Deck Caulking, SIS 440, Teak Deck Caulking, Deck Caulking, Caulking |
References
-
World's Premier Teak Decking by Teakdecking Systems — Teakdecking Systems
-
World's Premier Teak Decking by Teakdecking Systems — Teakdecking Systems
- User Manual
