sill seal

[VALENT]

ok, We finished pouring the concrete footing. Then, we put up a concrete masonry unit block wall 4 courses high. We just finished filling the blocks with concrete. Now we are ready for the sill plate which will be 2x8 pressure treated. I've seen some info(ads) for different types of sill seal. Is this a necessary part of the project? If so, why? Also, what other alternatives have been used besides this stuff they are selling if it is necessary?

[Rich]

Sill sealers main purpose is to minimize air infiltration under the sill plate.. mainly there to take up any gaps etc where the foundation wall might be a little rough.

[VALENT]

So, if I am ventilating the crawlsplace anyways the sill seal would be an unneeded expense? Or am I missing something?

[mjpliv]

If you want to save $20.00 for a few rolls of sill gasket then don't bother if it is an unheated crawlspace. But keep in mind it will also help keep the bugs out if there are any voids between the sill plate and the concrete.

[Tom R]

Never heard of skipping sill sealer, it's just not a viable option, especially at such a minimal cost.

[mjpliv]

The primary purpose of the product is to prevent air infliltration at the mud sill. If the gap opens up into a ventilated crawl space then you loose the benefit of the product with the exception of helping to keep the bugs out.

[Tom R]

Fine I guess if the crawlspace is vented all year round.