Last edited 26 Mar 2026

Oakum

Oakum is a traditional, fibrous caulking material made from hemp or jute fibres, used in the construction of log houses and timber frames but also in sealing plumbing joint, it may also be typically soaked in pine tar (Stockholm tar) when used on boat building. It has been used for many centuries, it acts as a durable, flexible, and breathable filler to seal gaps in between construction timber members, providing some form of waterproofing.Today it is often replaced with sealants of tape products that are easier to work with and more efficient at sealing though not so good at breathing).

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