How to Correctly Apply Mastic Adhesive

Mastic adhesive, also known as construction adhesive, is a heavy-duty bonding agent that is extremely thick. It has numerous construction applications in flooring, roofing, molding, dry walling, paneling, and is used with many materials including wood, metal, masonry and concrete. Because mastic adhesive is quite flexible and waterproof, it is a popular bonding agent for outside use reducing the need for nails and screws. Although it is a high-grade adhesive used every day by trained professionals, do-it-yourself enthusiasts can make great use following some simple directions.

Step 1: Prep the Area

Make sure to thoroughly clean whatever surface areas you wish to bond together. Make sure wood areas are free from all wax, varnish and paint. Make sure that cement areas and all other types are totally free from dirt and grease or loose material.

Step 2: Application

There are a number of different methods to transfer adhesive to the surface area to be bonded depending on size and amount of adhesive that needs to be used. Mastic adhesive can come in tubes, cans or larger containers. It can be applied directly from a tube working on small surface areas or transferred on a stick or trowel to large surface areas before being spread. Apply as much product as necessary to ensure a lasting bond.

Step 3: Clamp It

Secure the bonded surfaces by clamping them together. Or, if clamping is not appropriate, place heavy items on top of an object bonding to the one connected below. Be careful that no excessive mastic adhesive squeezes out.

Step 4:  Drying Time

Allow the objects being bound by mastic adhesive 24 hours to cure. The mixture should set in about 10 minutes after application so make necessary adjustments quickly.

Step 5: Clean Up

Make sure to thoroughly clean up the entire area using mineral spirits or turpentine to remove leftover, stray or excessive mastic adhesive. Always read the manufacturer’s directions before using cleaning products.

Step 6: Remove bonding Help

After allowing a 24-hour drying period, remove all weighing down or clamps used. All bonding areas are ready for use.

As with any type of construction chores, certain precautions are needed to ensure safe operation. Always wear protective gloves when using adhesives because stray material will start setting in 10 minutes, requiring special attention to remove any excess that begins to harden on unprotected skin. Also, pay special attention to ventilation. It is extremely important to have adequate air circulation in your work area. Using a ventilator mask is always a wise choice. Some adhesives contain harmful toxins if breathed requiring more extensive fume filtering respiratory masks.

Also, be very careful storing mastic adhesive containers. Keep them in a cool, dry location away from operating machinery. Never leave open containers lying about and always make sure to secure lids on cans and to fully close tube tips to prevent accidental spills. Removing unwanted mastic adhesive from surface areas once it has dried is not only time consuming but totally unnecessary if safe handling directions are strictly followed.

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