Description
Foam backer rod material is an ideal, non-absorbent, compressible backup material inserted into a joint to control sealant depth and create a backstop to:
- Allow for proper sealant tooling.
- Allow for proper sealant wetting of the joint surfaces.
- Yield proper bond breaker between the backup material and sealant.
Foam backer rod is a backstop material for most hot-pour sealants used to fill contraction and expansion joints of concrete highways, runways, driveways, and parking lots. It is compatible with most rubber-asphalt and coal tar-rubber polymer thermoplastic compounds.
100 ft, (1) bag
350 ft, (1) bag
1000 ft, (10) 100 ft bags
1050 ft, (3) 350 ft bags
The Foam Backer Rod Material – 7/8″ Foam Rope is a professional-grade joint backing solution designed to support and improve the performance of sealants in pavement maintenance and construction applications. This non-absorbent, compressible foam rod is inserted into joints and cracks before sealant application to control depth, provide a backstop, and promote proper sealant adhesion.
Contractors rely on backer rod to create the ideal joint configuration that allows sealants to expand and contract with temperature changes and surface movement. By preventing sealant from bonding to the bottom of the joint, the foam rod acts as a bond breaker, reducing stress on the sealant and improving the durability of the repair. The 7/8″ diameter size is well-suited for medium-width joints commonly found in concrete pavement, asphalt surfaces, driveways, and parking lots.
Performance and Usage Benefits
The 7/8″ foam backer rod helps ensure consistent sealant application by maintaining the proper depth and shape within the joint. This allows contractors to achieve the recommended hourglass profile that maximizes sealant flexibility and performance over time. Proper joint preparation using backer rod also improves tooling and helps sealant adhere correctly to the sides of the joint for a stronger, longer-lasting seal.
Because the foam rod is compressible and flexible, it can easily be inserted into joints using a blunt tool or roller. Once installed, it provides a stable base that keeps the sealant from sinking too deep into the crack or joint. This not only improves the quality of the repair but also reduces the amount of sealant material required, helping contractors manage project costs efficiently.
The rod’s closed-cell foam construction prevents moisture absorption, ensuring compatibility with most hot-pour sealants, rubber-asphalt compounds, and coal tar-rubber polymer thermoplastic materials used in pavement maintenance.
Durability and Construction
Manufactured from durable closed-cell foam, the 7/8″ Foam Backer Rod is designed to withstand outdoor conditions and exposure to common construction chemicals. The non-absorbent structure resists oils, gasoline, solvents, and moisture, ensuring long-term reliability in both asphalt and concrete applications.
Its lightweight design makes it easy to transport, handle, and install on job sites of any size. Whether performing small repairs or large-scale pavement maintenance projects, contractors can depend on the consistent quality and performance of this backer rod material.
Multiple packaging options allow contractors to choose the right quantity for their project size, reducing waste and improving jobsite efficiency.
Common Applications
The 7/8″ Foam Backer Rod is commonly used in pavement maintenance and construction projects, including:
• Expansion and contraction joints in concrete pavement
• Asphalt and concrete crack sealing applications
• Parking lots, driveways, and roadways
• Bridge decks and highway construction
• Industrial floors and structural joints
Key Features
• Non-absorbent, closed-cell foam construction
• Compressible design for easy installation in joints and cracks
• Controls sealant depth and improves joint configuration
• Acts as a bond breaker to prevent three-sided adhesion
• Compatible with most hot-pour and elastomeric sealants
• Resistant to oils, gasoline, solvents, and moisture
• Ideal for asphalt and concrete pavement maintenance
Technical Specifications
Diameter: 7/8 inch
Material: Closed-cell foam
Application: Joint filling and backing for sealant installation
Compatibility: Rubber-asphalt, coal tar-rubber polymer, and thermoplastic sealants






