Sealants, as the name applies, are used to stick materials together and also to block airflow. All caulking (a sealant to seal joints or seams against leakage) materials must have at least a minimum of 20 years of life expectancy before use. Acceptable sealants include (but not limited to):
- Foam sealants that meet ICC ES 377 and ASTM C1642-07 such as:
- 1-part urethane foam, low CFC (e.g. Great stuff, Pur-fil, Insta-foam, or equivalent).
- 1-part urethane fire-block foam rated for sealing gaps in wood fire blocking.
- 2-part urethane foam kits 1.75pcf density, 2-part Flame Spread 25 foam kits 1.75pcf.
- Siliconized latex sealants meeting ASTM C834,
- Silicone, 1-part gun grade urethane, and other elastomeric sealants meeting ASTMC 920, (“Silicone” refers to 100% silicone caulk, clear or pigmented—not acrylic)
- Water-based duct sealant meeting UL 181A-M, UL 181B-M (“RCD #6” or equivalent)
- Sealants rated for contact with chimneys and combustion vents such as:
- Non-combustible fire barrier caulk or furnace cement meeting ASTM E 136.
- Silicone high temp RTV listed for use on gas vents to 500 degrees F, meeting ASTM C920.