Timber Set
The Log Run Sealant
What Is It and Why Should I Use It?
Timber Set is a flexible layer of sealant applied to each side of the tops of machine logs as they are set. The weight of the log on the applied Timber Set forms a seal, creating a thermal break between the logs. (A thermal break is a sealed air space that enhances the insulation value of logs.) A framed home uses the area between the tarpaper (or Tyvek) on the outside wall and the plastic vapour barrier on the inside to accomplish this same result. A sealed air space is what stops heat from escaping and cold air from entering the home.
Photo courtesy of Cascade Handcrafted Log Homes
Stacking tape could still be effective in the saddle areas along with Timber Set, as these areas tend to check and flex more than the rest of the log package. The checking and flexing is typically caused by moisture escaping through the ends of the logs faster than through the sides. The resulting moisture imbalance in the logs is what produces this condition. While the various species of wood will twist and check differently, this process will occur in all wood to a certain degree, including Denim Pine (standing dead pine) and pre-dried Cedar and Fir, species which are considered to be among the lowest in moisture content.
Machine log home builders generally use a single layer of stacking tape to help prevent the air from passing between the logs. While this procedure is helpful, it does not provide an actual thermal break (R-value). If Timber Set is used instead, then the stacking tape, in this application, could be eliminated.
Timber Set comes in one color only - Pine - because this is the color that best matches the color of all species of logs. If it is accidentally applied too thickly, it can be easily wiped off and will not affect the wood finish that goes over it.
In short, Timber Set creates an invisible vapour barrier. If stacking tape is used, the home will require the addition of either visible or invisible chinking to both the interior and exterior later on to form this vapour barrier. The cost of Timber Set and Timber Match (the caulking sealant) is almost the same, but because Timber Match needs to be applied later in the building process, it will normally cost the homeowner more. Timber Set is, therefore, more effective than stacking tape and, depending on the application, less expensive than Timber Match in the long run.
Description
Timber Set™ is specifically designed for use as an adhesive sealant between log courses during the stacking process. Timber Set is a flexible layer of protection that will seal out air, moisture and pests. Timber Set can be used either in conjunction with foam gasket systems or as a direct gasket replacement. Timber Set is a premium acrylic latex caulk with high adhesive strength that insures a permanent, flexible bond. Timber Set is for use on Swedish cope and all machined log profiles.
Product Features
- excellent environmental barrier
- improves energy efficiency of wall construction over foam tape alone
- remains highly flexible and pliable which allows for normal log wall expansion and contraction
- will not induce checking of wood like common construction adhesives
- adheres permanently to wood surface
- easy to apply and tool
- advanced mildew and fungal inhibitors
- paint-able and stainable
- soap and water clean-up
Application Instructions
All surfaces to be sealed should be clean and free from any dirt, oils or other foreign materials. Surface temperature of the logs should be between 40°F and 95°F. Do not apply to surfaces that are frozen or covered with ice. Apply Timber Set according to your Log Home Manufacturer’s construction specifications.
Timber Set can be applied using a commercial pump, bulk loading caulking gun or standard gun. Please refer to your Log Home Manufacturer’s construction manual for bead size requirements and bead location for all joinery. Some Log Home Manufacturers require a double bead of sealant to be applied between mating surfaces. Always follow your Log Home Manufacturer’s instructions when using any product.
Timber Set is designed for use as an internal sealant but it can also be safely used in most areas of construction requiring an exposed sealant.
General Production Information
Color: Pine
Packaging: 5-gallon pails, 29 fluid oz. fiber cartridges (10 per case)
Shelf Life: 12 months from purchase when stored in a tightly sealed container between 45°F and 90°F
VOC: 32 grams/liter
Cure Time: Tack free within 2 to 4 hours. Material is fully cured within 2 to 3 weeks depending on temperature and relative humidity
Freeze-Thaw: Passes 5 cycles
Service Range: -30°F to 220°F
Application Range: 40°F to 95°F
Clean-up: Wash off tools and equipment with soap and warm water
Coverage: Use table below for estimation guidance
Bead Diameter
|
Feet / 5. gallon pail |
Feet / case of 29 oz tubes
|
| 1/4" |
1540 |
698 |
| 3/8" |
680 |
308 |
| 1/2" |
385 |
174 |
Precautions
Do not take internally. Keep out of the reach of children.
Hazard Warning
Health 1
Flammability 0
Reactivity 0
Note: Do not let product freeze.
