The construction of residential houses in the 20th century was characterized by the rapid development of panel structures. In our country, without exception, there are entire quarters built from panels. The strength of such structures and the speed of construction were very advantageous, but there was one significant drawback. The technology did not provide for the pouring of concrete into the interpanel seams; they were only sealed with rubber or filled with cement. Sealing the seams was done, but it did not bring any practical benefit. Moisture and drafts penetrated the premises, and problems with cockroaches were also unresolved.
Modern Hydrosealing
Modern hydrosealing of interpanel seams allows for a complete solution to the problem of insulation and soundproofing, creating comfort for living in a house. To begin with, it is necessary to inspect the interpanel seams to determine their condition and eliminate the shortcomings of previous treatment. There is primary and secondary seam sealing. Primary sealing involves filling the gaps between panels with polymer-flex. This creates a deformation joint with an insulating sealant (vilatherm), followed by sealing with a sealing mastic like Germa-butyl S. In the case of secondary sealing, the seams are disassembled, old mastic, cement-sand mixture, and old insulation are removed, and then the work is performed as with primary sealing. It has been noticed that in buildings where seam repairs have been carried out, the room temperature increases on average by two to four degrees, and moisture on the walls becomes impossible. Sealing the interpanel seams in residential buildings effectively isolates the dwelling from street noise, which is particularly noticeable when the house is located near roads. The cost of seam sealing and waterproofing of windows and balconies is reduced thanks to the application of industrial mountaineering technology.
Quality Work
Interpanel seams require high-quality sealing, which is only possible using proven materials. Specialists do not recommend performing sealing during wet seasons or in the rain. Frost down to -15 degrees does not affect the quality or properties of the materials used for sealing concrete seams.
Advantages of Sealant
Sealant has several advantages - it does not rot, does not let in moisture, and is environmentally friendly. Interpanel seams are filled with insulation inside because it is elastic and does not require selection by diameter. High-quality sealing and repair of interpanel seams will protect the housing from cold, moisture, drafts, rodents, and cockroaches, ensuring comfort and coziness.
Advantages of Sealing for Energy Conservation
Sealing interpanel seams in residential buildings brings significant benefits in terms of energy conservation. In this section, we will examine the specific advantages of proper sealing:
- Reduced Heat Loss: Narrow and well-sealed interpanel seams significantly reduce heat loss in the house. This means that during the winter, the warmth inside the room is better retained, leading to reduced heating costs and, consequently, cost savings.
- Increased Comfort: Sealed interpanel seams not only reduce heat loss but also prevent drafts and cold air from entering. This creates more comfortable living conditions and reduces the need for heating systems.
- Lower Air Conditioning Costs: During the summer, sealing also has a positive impact on air conditioning expenses. Well-sealed seams help maintain cool temperatures inside the house, reducing the use of air conditioners and, therefore, electricity bills.
- Environmental Benefits: Reduced energy consumption leads to lower emissions of carbon dioxide and other harmful substances, which has a positive impact on the environment.
Practical Tips for Residents
For residents, there are several practical tips that can help maintain and care for sealed interpanel seams:
- Regular Inspection: It is recommended to periodically inspect interpanel seams to identify signs of wear or damage. If problems are found, they should be addressed promptly.
- Use of Quality Materials: If you plan to perform sealing yourself, make sure to use high-quality materials that ensure durability and effectiveness.
- Professional Services: In case of serious issues with interpanel seams, it is advisable to seek the assistance of professionals who specialize in sealing and repairing structures. This guarantees the quality execution of the work.
Innovations in the Field of Sealing
Modern innovations in the field of interpanel seam sealing in residential buildings contribute to increased efficiency and improved durability of sealing. In this section, we will explore some of the new technologies and materials:
- Use of High-Efficiency Sealants: With advancements in the chemical industry, more efficient and durable sealants have emerged, ensuring reliable seam sealing.
- Thermal Insulation Materials: New insulation materials and substances for filling interpanel seams contribute to improved thermal insulation and increased energy efficiency of homes.
- Use of Modern Methods and Tools: The application of modern technologies, such as thermal imaging scanning, allows for more precise detection of leakage points and more efficient sealing.
These innovations in sealing technology enhance the quality of work and promote more efficient resource utilization in the maintenance and repair of residential buildings.