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Tools & Dry-In

Grip Strip Trapezoidal Backer for Log Cabins

Grip Strip – Trapezoidal Foam Backer

Grip Strip is chemically inert closed-cell polyethylene that is shaped to fit between log courses to form a flat surface for the application of Perma-Chink or Energy Seal. This makes it easier to maintain a consistent thickness of sealant across the seam, reducing the amount of sealant required and improving the sealant’s performance.

  • Provides a firm chinking or caulking surface
  • Shape and texture allow it to be easily installed without using staples, nails or glue
  • Repels water
  • Compatible with all commonly available synthetic chinking
  • Helps prevent blistering of chinking surfaces
  • Provides extra insulation against heat loss
  • R-value for Grip Strip: 1.2 for 2.5″ & up; .9 for 1.25″-2″; and .6 for 1″ & under

Grip Strip Available Sizes

Trapezoid-shaped foam backer rod designed for wide gaps in log homes.

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Available Sizes

Size Total Length/Box Pieces per Box Price per 4′ Piece/Whole Box
3/4″ 1200′ 300 $1.21/$242.99
1″ 960′ 240 $1.55/$247.99
1 1/4″ 600′ 150 $2.59/$258.99
1 1/2″ 460′ 115 $3.34/$255.99
2″ 360′ 90 $4.43/$265.99
3″ 200′ 50 $8.10/$269.99
4″ 144′ 36 $12.08/$289.99
5″ 120′ 30 $14.50/$289.99
6″ 96′ 24 $18.25/$291.99

Frequently Asked Questions

Your questions about Grip Strip answered.

Do I need to use backing material?

Yes. For proper adhesion and elasticity of sealants, backing materials should be used. Read more here.

Can I use any foam for backing?

No. The wrong foam, like pink or blue colored foam, will “out-gas” and cause blisters in sealants.

How do I smooth out my sealant?

For a smooth finish, spray the sealant with water and smooth it using a metal spatula. You can learn more about the process of tooling here.

I am a professional log home Applicator in TN and Grip Strip is the perfect product for insulating and caulking in the sides of windows, doors and eaves that have a big gap. I would not want to caulk or chink a house without it!

–Pat

The bulk loading gun is a GREAT tool! It took a little getting used to, but once we got it down, we cruised right across the walls. My wife and a friend on the spatulas and me on the gun got the house done lots quicker than we thought we could.

–Mike

I sanded my entire log house with 6″ Osborn nylon cup brushes on an angle grinder last summer and applied Ultra-7 from your Rice, MN, store with great results!

–Alex
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