Caulking comes in squeeze tubes or cartridges.
Learn the right way to apply caulking so your project will look like it was done by a pro.
Generally made of latex or silicone, caulking is best for thin seams (about 3/8-inch or less).
The Spruce / Sanja Kostic
To prep the surfaces, remove the old caulk with a retractable razor blade scraper.
Finally, clean the surfaces with a rag and rubbing alcohol.
Porcelain or ceramic surfaces must be perfectly smooth, clean, and dry so you can accept new caulk.
The Spruce / Sanja Kostic
verify the tape is straight, and use long sections of tape, not short pieces.
With uneven joints, the caulk bead may need to be wider, up to 3/8 inch.
Press down firmly along the inner edges of the tape.
The Spruce / Sanja Kostic
The goal is to seal these edges so caulk cannot seep beneath it.
This can be done with your fingernail or a wooden craft stick.
Poke through the seal a few times to ensure a smooth flow of caulk.
The Spruce / Sanja Kostic
Apply the caulk at a 45-degree angle between horizontal and perpendicular.
confirm to squeeze hard enough to force the caulk fully into the joint.
The smoother the initial system, the better the end results will be.
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Also, dampen a corner of a cloth rag with either water or alcohol, as appropriate.
The alcohol or water will serve as a lubricant and thinning agent as you smooth the joint.
Using light pressure, smooth the caulk joint, working from one end to the other.
The Spruce / Sanja Kostic
Continue the smoothing process until the entire taped section you’re working on is finished.
Remove the Tape
Immediatelyremove the blue painter’s tapeused to mask the joint.
Caulking Tips
Caulk vs. Sealant
Should you use caulk or sealant for your project?
The Spruce / Sanja Kostic
The main difference between caulk and sealant is elasticity: sealant is stretchier and more flexible than caulk.
Work slowly and steadily as youapply the caulk, and verify the nozzle tip releases a smooth stream.
Smoothing the caulk joint will be more effective if the initial app is uniform.
The Spruce / Sanja Kostic
It is better to pull when caulking.
This should create a smoother utility, whereas pushing the caulk gun can create an uneven flow.
Certain types of caulk, such as acrylic, can be layered.
The Spruce / Sanja Kostic
Silicone caulk typically cannot be layered because it’s too slick to stick to itself.
Avoid using caulking in areas that are wider than 3/8-inch.
Caulk works best in joints that are thinner than this.
For wide joints, use solid weatherstripping instead.
