ChemLink Pourable Sealant vs. Traditional Pitch Pan Sealants: A Comprehensive Performance Analysis

Understanding Traditional Pitch Pan Sealant

Limitations Material and Performance Challenges

• Traditional asphalt-based and coal tar pitch sealants suffer from significant shrinkage over time, leading to gaps and water infiltration.
• These materials become brittle in cold weather and can flow or creep under high temperatures, compromising their sealing integrity during thermal cycling.

Installation and Maintenance Drawbacks

• Installation requires extensive surface preparation, mechanical fastening, and flashing, making the process time-consuming.
• Traditional sealants often contain solvents, contributing to VOC emissions and requiring specific weather conditions for application.
• Maintenance is substantial due to degradation from UV exposure, temperature extremes, and freeze-thaw cycles.

Performance Degradation Patterns

• Asphalt-based sealants shrink as solvents evaporate, causing edge separation and water penetration.

• Temperature cycling leads to expansion and contraction, which traditional materials cannot accommodate without cracking or losing adhesion.
• The viscous nature of these sealants makes it difficult to seal multiple penetrations in close proximity or complex geometries.

ChemLink Pourable Sealant Technology Advantages

Moisture-Curing, Elastomeric Formulation

• ChemLink 1 Part Pourable Sealant offers zero shrinkage upon curing, eliminating the primary failure mode of traditional sealants.
• The system requires no mixing, simplifying application and ensuring consistent results across various environmental conditions.
• Contains no isocyanates or solvents, addressing environmental and worker safety concerns.

Application Flexibility

• Maintains flexibility down to 32°F (0°C) and can be applied in damp, dry, or cold climates.
• Accommodates greater movement in penetration seals compared to typical urethane sealants, enhancing long-term reliability.

Advanced Material Properties

• ChemLink’s Pro Pack Urethane Sealant (two-component system) offers unlimited cure depth and flexibility down to -40°F (-40°C).
• No plastic flow or creep at elevated temperatures, making it suitable for high-temperature applications.
• 100% solid rubber composition ensures dimensional stability and resistance to oils, fuels, and chemicals.

Self-Leveling and Complex Geometry Sealing

• Novalink Self-Leveling Sealant properties allow sealants to penetrate cracks and flow around complex geometries, ensuring complete seals even in challenging applications.

Durability and Weather Resistance Comparison

• ChemLink sealants maintain flexibility and adhesion throughout their service life, accommodating thermal movement without cracking.
• Superior resistance to UV exposure, temperature cycling, and water ponding compared to traditional materials.
• Chemical resistance adds protection in industrial or contaminated environments.

Long-Term Performance Data

• Elastomeric properties enable ChemLink sealants to maintain seal integrity through repeated thermal cycling.
• Minimal maintenance requirements compared to conventional pitch pan systems.
• Extended warranty options reflect confidence in long-term performance.

Installation Efficiency and Application Benefits

• ChemCurb and E-Curb systems can typically be installed in under 15 minutes per penetration, eliminating the need for flashing or mechanical attachment.
• Pourable nature simplifies application and ensures complete coverage around penetrations of any configuration.
• Less stringent surface preparation requirements, with the ability to apply in damp conditions.

Versatile Application Capabilities

• Accommodates virtually any diameter roof penetration with a range of precast curb components and pourable sealant options.

• E-Curb system offers lightweight nylon components in various diameters and custom configurations for larger or irregular penetrations.
• High-temperature applications benefit from thermosetting properties that maintain integrity under elevated temperatures.

ChemCurb and E-Curb System Integration

• ChemCurb system uses precast polyester resin components, offering superior durability and installation efficiency.
• Integrates with ChemLink’s M-1 Structural Adhesive Sealant for secure attachment to various membranes.
• E-Curb Kits system feature lightweight nylon resin components with slip-fit design for rapid installation and long-term performance.
• Both systems eliminate mechanical fastening, reducing potential leak points.

Comprehensive Penetration Solutions

• ChemLink curb systems address a wide range of roof penetrations, including pipes, mechanical equipment, vents, solar panels, and lightning protection systems.
• Modular design enables custom configurations for complex arrangements while maintaining waterproof integrity.
• Particularly beneficial for solar panel mounting due to corrosion resistance and thermal stability.

Economic and Environmental Considerations

• Economic advantages include reduced installation time, minimal maintenance, and extended service life.
• Elimination of mechanical fastening reduces material costs and potential failure points.
• Solvent-free formulation reduces VOC emissions and eliminates worker exposure to hazardous vapors.