Log Builder FAQs

• Q: Can I use Log Builder or Conceal around gutters?

  A: No. Water-based products should not be used in areas that may experience large volumes of water. For this application, Sashco’s Lexel or Through the Roof are excellent choices and are available at Ace Hardware, True Value Hardware and Do-It-Best Centers nationwide.

• Q: Can I use Log Builder or Conceal on a joint more than 2 inches wide?

  A: No. Log Jam or Chinker’s Edge are the best choices for gaps this wide. Log Builder and Conceal both work best in joints that range from 1/4″ to 2″ wide.

• Q: Do I need to throw away my old formula Log Builder?

  A: No. It will still perform when all application instructions are followed.

• Q: I notice that the color of the new Log Builder is darker out of the tube. Will it dry to be the same color as the old formula?

  A: Yes, the colors will dry the same.

• Q: If I have some leftover old formula Log Builder, can I use it next to the new I just bought and get the same color?

  A: Yes. They’ll look different coming out of the tube but both will dry to be the same color.

  It’s possible the sheen may be a bit higher, but it should not be noticeable. And, just as with stains or lots of fabric, there can be slight color variances from one batch to the next. So, it’s wise to apply the different products in different places and at natural breakpoints (door and window frames, around the corner, etc.), and try to avoid putting them right next to one another if you’re concerned about those slight color and sheen variances.

  Of course, you can always test an inconspicuous area on the home, applying both products right next to each other to see if the variances will be noticeable. If not, you can apply as you see fit, according to instructions.

• Q: What are your chinking and caulking products made of?

  A: Chinker’s Edge, Log Jam, Conceal and Log Builder are all water-based acrylic latex sealants.

• Q: What can I use to clean up if I get messy with the Log Builder, Conceal, Log Jam or Chinker’s Edge?

  A: While still wet, all these products clean up easily with water. Once completely dried, all are much harder to remove, and often need to be cut or scraped off of surfaces. If any dries on your hands, you can usually remove it by just rubbing your hands together, and it will roll up and off your skin. If that doesn’t work, citrus-based hand cleansers should do the trick.

• Q: What do I do if the Log Jam / Log Builder is blistering?

  A: Review the technical bulletin entitled, “Preventing Blisters in Chinking Material”, for a complete treatment of this subject.

• Q: What is the difference between Log Builder and Conceal?

  A: Conceal is lightly textured and diffuses light, so the caulk “disappears”. Log Builder has no texture and gives a more shiny finish when dry.

• Q: What’s different about the new Log Builder formula?

  A: Well, a few things:

  – It’s a bit thicker, which means easier tooling. This also enhances its ability to resist washout if you get that unexpected rain storm.
  – It now has more elasticity and flexibility than ever before

  – We’ve eliminated many of the VOCs that were in the old formula, making this new formula the most environmentally friendly Log Builder ever. In fact, it’s compliant with the strictest VOC laws going into effect at the end of 2010.

• Q: Will Log Builder or Conceal stick to stone and masonry where my fireplace attaches to my logs? Will it work where my aluminum flashing meets logs or metal roof meets logs?

  A: Yes, both will adhere very well to such stone and masonry. Your main concern should be that if the stone or masonry is made hot by the fireplace, then the sealant will likely not survive such high temperatures. Be sure to read the Data Tec for specific temperature ranges to ensure the product will work for you.

  Both products will generally adhere well to clean aluminum. Water based products should not be used in areas that may experience large volumes of water such as roofs, gutters, or flashings. For this application, Sashco’s Lexel or Through the Roof are excellent choices and are available at Ace Hardware, True Value Hardware and Do-It-Best Centers nationwide.