Circular Cord Polyethylene Foam
Download Data SheetEstop Backer Rod is a compressible closed cell polyethylene foam, supplied in circular cords lengths as a backup material for joint sealants.
Due to its light weight, it acts as debonding ‘tape’ between joint filler and sealant.
Estop Backer Rod performs several functions. They enable the correct width to depth ratio of the sealing slot to be obtained and provide a firm backing to ensure that sealants are forced against the sides of the joint during application. They function as a bond breaker at the back of the seal preventing additional stress on the sealant during joint movement.
Below is an example of a sealed expansion joint.
Form | Compressible close cell foam circular cords |
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Storage life | Indefinite |
Water absorption | Negligible |
Colour | Grey |
Temperature stability, °C | -40 to 60 |
Density, kg/m³ | 35 to 40 |
Estop Backer Rod is selected oversize and push fitted into the joint. A blunt tool should be used to prevent damage to the surface skin of the cord during insertion.
The diameter of the cord should be approximately 20% to 25% larger than the width of the joint, positioned so that the required minimum sealant depth is obtained, measured at the centre of the joint.
When installed the circular section of Estop Backer Rod cords provides a convex face giving a near optimum minimum strain shape for elastomeric sealants reducing the build up of stress at the bond interface.
Estop Backer Rod is sold per carton. The length of each cord size contained in one carton is shown below.
Cord diameter (mm) | Linear metres per carton |
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10 | 1150 |
15 | 550 |
20 | 350 |
25 | 200 |
30 | 160 |
40 | 270 |
50 | 180 |
Estop offers a technical support package to specifiers, end-users and contractors, as well as on site technical assistance.
Store in dry and covered condition.
There is no known health hazards associated with Estop Backer Rod in normal usage.
Estop manufactures and offers a wide range of complementary products, which includes waterstops, waterproofing products, grouts, anchors, specialized flooring products. In addition, a wide range of products formulated for repair and refurbishment of spalled concrete are available.