Skip to content
Nomaco SOF Rod 7/8 in. Bi-Cellular Polyethylene Foam Backer Rod
Regular price $44.75Orders start at $399 — combine any items to reach the minimum. Learn more
Nomaco SOF Rod 7/8 in. Bi-Cellular Polyethylene Foam Backer Rod
Nomaco SOF Rod is a soft bi-cellular polyethylene foam backer rod, 7/8 in. diameter, used to fill joints before sealant in building envelope and concrete construction. Its open/closed cell blend will not out-gas when the skin ruptures, helping prevent sealant bubbling and failure. Sold by the carton and paired with cold-applied sealants.
Key Features:
- No out-gassing: The bi-cellular open/closed cell structure will not out-gas when the skin is ruptured, preventing sealant bubbling and failure.
- Water resistant: Polyethylene foam resists water in building envelope and concrete joints.
- No bond breaker: No bond breaker is needed when using SOF Rod with sealants.
- Cold-applied ready: Designed for use with cold-applied sealants.
- Lightweight and clean: Lightweight, non-exuding and inert for easy, clean handling.
Specifications Table:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand | Nomaco |
| Sell unit | 1 carton |
| Product line | SOF Rod |
| Available sizes | 7/8 in. diameter |
| Material | Bi-cellular polyethylene foam (open and closed cells) |
| Dimensions | 7/8 in. diameter |
| Assembly | Compress into joint before sealant application |
| Intended use | Backer rod for building envelope and concrete construction joints |
Coverage & How Much You Need:
Choose a rod diameter roughly 25% larger than the joint width so it compresses and stays in place without stretching. Size your order by total joint linear feet; carton length is not stated in the sources.
Fit and Compatibility:
Use with cold-applied sealants in building envelope and concrete construction joints; no bond breaker is needed. Sealant is sold separately.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: What does the SOF Rod do?
A: It fills joints to control sealant depth and shape, preventing three-sided adhesion and sealant failure.
Q: What size should I use?
A: Pick a rod about 25% larger than joint width so it compresses to stay in place; this item is 7/8 in. diameter.
Q: Will it cause sealant bubbling?
A: No, the bi-cellular structure will not out-gas when the skin ruptures, which prevents bubbling and failure.
Q: Do I need a bond breaker?
A: No, SOF Rod eliminates the need for a bond breaker.
Q: What sealants work with it?
A: It is designed for use with cold-applied sealants.
Q: How is it sold?
A: It is sold by the carton.
Expert Verdict — Reviewed by the SuperArbor Pro Desk
SOF Rod is the right choice where out-gassing has caused pinholes or bubbling in prior sealant work. Set it to a consistent depth with a roller or blunt tool so sealant depth-to-width ratios stay correct, and avoid over-compression that causes winding or slippage. Pair with a quality cold-applied sealant sized to the joint movement.
Follow the sealant manufacturer's safety data sheet for ventilation and skin protection during application.
Order Nomaco SOF Rod 7/8 in. backer rod for bubble-free, long-lasting sealant joints.
All third party trademarks, including logos and icons, referenced on our website and product pages remain the property of their respective owners. Unless specifically identified as such, Arbor's use of third party trademarks does not indicate any relationship, affiliation, sponsorship, or endorsement between Arbor Home and the owners of these trademarks. Any references by Arbor Home to third party trademarks are to identify the corresponding third party goods.
