Sealing Tongue and Groove Surfaces

Select sealants that:

are compatible with their intended surfaces,

allow for differential expansion and contraction between dissimilar materials,

meet the requirements of the applicable fire safety code (e.g. thermal or ignition barriers), and

for use inside the pressure boundary select low volatile organic compound (VOC) sealants that meet independent testing and verification protocols

Select materials that:

adequately support applied load and are permanent air barriers,

meet the requirements of the applicable fire safety code (e.g. thermal or ignition barriers), and

for use inside the pressure boundary select low volatile organic compound (VOC) materials that meet independent testing and verification protocols

Install rigid air barrier material behind tongue and groove surfaces

Remove any material from the sealing area that will prevent full adhesion of the selected sealant

Apply a continuous seal at all seams, cracks, joints, edges, penetrations, and connections of the backing material while applying sufficient pressure to push sealant into any gaps or cracks and contact any backing or infill material required

No sealant may be visible in the living space