Sealant Calculator
Estimate sealant volume and cartridge count based on joint dimensions and waste factor.
How the Sealant Calculator Works
This sealant calculator estimates how much sealant is required for linear joints based on the physical volume of the joint. It is commonly used for construction and maintenance projects such as facade joints, window perimeters, floor expansion joints, and panel gaps. By matching the joint geometry to cartridge volume, you can plan material quantities accurately and reduce downtime on site.
Core Calculation
The calculator treats each joint as a rectangular channel. The volume is calculated from length, width, and depth:
Volume (ml) = Length (m) × 1000 × Width (mm) × Depth (mm) ÷ 1000
Because 1 ml equals 1,000 cubic millimeters, converting from mm³ to ml is straightforward. The length is converted from meters to millimeters by multiplying by 1000.
Waste Factor
Real-world projects rarely match theoretical use exactly. The waste factor accounts for overfill, nozzle residue, surface irregularities, and application variability. For example, an 8% waste factor increases the total sealant volume to ensure adequate supply.
Cartridge Count
The calculator divides the total required volume by the cartridge volume and rounds up to the next full cartridge. This ensures you have enough material to complete the work.
Example
If you have 45 meters of jointing at 10 mm wide and 8 mm deep, the base volume is:
45 × 1000 × 10 × 8 ÷ 1000 = 3600 ml
With an 8% waste factor, total volume becomes 3888 ml. Using 300 ml cartridges, you need 13 cartridges.
Typical Use Cases
- Facade expansion joints in commercial buildings
- Window and door perimeter sealing
- Floor slab control joints
- Panelized wall systems and cladding
Use this calculator to align procurement with job requirements and avoid unnecessary delays from under-ordering sealant.