Learn Bin Sealing with SANI-TRED

Grain bins are essential structures for storing harvested crops, but without proper bin sealing, they can become vulnerable to moisture infiltration, leading to spoilage and loss. Ensuring your grain bin is adequately sealed is crucial to protect your investment and maintain the quality of your stored grain. This guide provides a detailed, step-by-step approach to sealing with SANI-TRED Products. By following these instructions, you’ll learn how to effectively seal your grain bin, ensuring its longevity and the safety of your stored products.

Products You Will Need:

• PermaFlex: A high-performance, water-resistant primer and topcoat that provides a flexible, durable finish.
• LRB (Liquid Rubber Base): A liquid polyurethane coating that forms a rubber-like barrier when cured.
• TAV (Thickening Activator): A thickening agent used to adjust the viscosity of LRB for application in seams and joints.

Step 1: Preparation

The first and most crucial step in sealing your grain bin is to thoroughly prepare the substrate. Proper preparation ensures that the SANI-TRED products adhere correctly and provide the best possible seal. Follow these steps:

1. Remove Loose Material: Begin by removing any loose or deteriorated substrate from the surface of the grain bin. This could include old paint, rust, or any other material that is not firmly attached.

2. Clean the Surface: Once the loose material is removed, clean the surface of the bin thoroughly. This means removing dirt, dust, grease, oil, and any other contaminants that could interfere with the adhesion of the sealant. It’s essential to ensure that the surface is completely dry before proceeding.

3. Inspect for Previous Coatings: If the grain bin has previously been coated with another product, determine if it can be removed. In many cases, it’s best to remove old coatings to ensure a clean, smooth surface for the SANI-TRED products. However, if the existing material is impossible to remove, you can apply the SANI-TRED system over it, but you’ll need to use the LRB/TAV mixture at a greater thickness to bridge beyond the existing material.

4. Sandblasting: In cases where previous coatings or rust are present, sandblasting may be necessary. Sandblasting removes old coatings and rust, providing a fresh, clean surface for the new sealant. As shown in the example, sandblasting the galvanized steel and concrete ensures the best possible adhesion of the SANI-TRED products.

Step 2: Priming

After preparing the surface, the next step is to apply a primer coat using PermaFlex. This will ensure a strong bond between the substrate and the topcoat, providing a durable and flexible finish.

1. Measure the Area: Before applying the primer, measure the surface area of the grain bin that needs to be primed. This includes both the slab and the bin itself. Typically, you’ll want to prime about 3 to 6 inches out onto the slab and 3 to 6 inches up onto the bin.

2. Apply PermaFlex: Using a brush or roller, apply one coat of PermaFlex to the prepared surface. The coverage rate is approximately 240 square feet per gallon. To calculate the amount of PermaFlex you need, use the formula:

   (3.14 x diameter of grain bin) / 240 = gallons of PermaFlex needed.

   This calculation ensures you have enough product to cover the entire area properly.

3. Allow to Cure: Let the primer coat cure according to the product instructions. This usually takes a few hours, but it’s essential to ensure the primer is fully cured before moving on to the next step.

Step 3: Patching and Sealing

With the surface primed, the next step is to seal the joint where the grain bin meets the slab. This is a critical area prone to moisture infiltration, so proper sealing is essential.

1. Mix LRB and TAV: To create a thick, durable sealant, mix two parts LRB (Liquid Rubber Base) with one part TAV (Thickening Activator). This mixture should have a consistency similar to silicone caulk, making it easy to apply and mold into the necessary shape.

2. Apply the Mixture: Using a caulking gun, apply a 1-1/4 inch diameter bead of the LRB/TAV mixture around the entire circumference of the bin where it meets the slab. The thick, rubbery consistency of this mixture will fill gaps and create a watertight seal that can flex with temperature changes and other environmental factors.

3. Smooth the Bead: After applying the bead, use a tool or your finger to smooth it out, ensuring full contact with the surfaces and eliminating any air pockets. This step is crucial for creating a seamless seal.

4. Circumference Calculation: To determine how much LRB/TAV mixture you’ll need, calculate the circumference of the grain bin using the formula:

   3.14 x diameter of grain bin = circumference

   This will give you the length of the joint to be sealed and help you estimate the quantity of sealant required.

Step 4: Topcoating

The final step in sealing your grain bin is to apply a topcoat of PermaFlex. This topcoat provides an additional layer of protection and ensures the longevity of the seal.

1. Apply PermaFlex Topcoat: Once the patching material has cured, apply a topcoat of PermaFlex over the entire primed area, including the patched joint. This second layer of PermaFlex will provide a durable, flexible, and waterproof barrier that protects the bin from the elements.

2. Coverage Calculation: As with the primer, the coverage rate for the topcoat is 240 square feet per gallon. Use the same formula to calculate the amount of PermaFlex needed for the topcoat:

   (3.14 x diameter of grain bin) / 240 = gallons of PermaFlex needed.

3. Final Curing: Allow the topcoat to cure fully according to the product instructions. This final curing process is essential to ensure that the seal is strong and durable.

4. Inspection: After the topcoat has cured, inspect the entire area for any missed spots or imperfections. If necessary, apply additional PermaFlex to ensure a complete and seamless seal.

Why Choose SANI-TRED for Grain Bin Sealing?

SANI-TRED products are engineered for exceptional durability, flexibility, and water resistance. When applied correctly, they create a monolithic, seamless membrane that adheres to a variety of surfaces, including metal and concrete. This makes them ideal for sealing grain bins, which are exposed to harsh environmental conditions and must be protected from moisture infiltration.

• Durability: SANI-TRED products are designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor exposure, including temperature fluctuations, UV radiation, and physical wear and tear.

• Flexibility: Unlike rigid coatings that can crack and fail over time, SANI-TRED products remain flexible, allowing them to move with the substrate and maintain a watertight seal.

• Ease of Application: With simple mixing and application processes, SANI-TRED products are user-friendly, making them accessible to both professional contractors and DIY enthusiasts.

• Comprehensive Protection: By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your grain bin is fully protected from moisture, extending its lifespan and safeguarding your stored grain.

Additional Resources

If you’re looking for more information on sealing grain bins or other waterproofing projects, SANI-TRED offers a wealth of resources. Explore our informative blogs that cover a wide range of topics, including basement waterproofing, pool repair, and concrete sealing. Our step-by-step guides and expert tips are designed to help you navigate various aspects of home improvement and repair with confidence.

For a solution tailored to your specific needs, contact SANI-TRED today for a free quote. Our team of experts is ready to assist you with any questions or concerns you may have, ensuring you have the right products and knowledge to complete your project successfully.