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Caulking like a PRO
May
16,
2023
By Joel Unruh
Categories -
Building Materials, Decking And Railing, Fence, General, Lumber, Nailers, Plywood, Prefabricated Building Solutions, Roofing, Saws, Shingles, Siding, Tools, Windows, Woodworking Tools
Maintenance sometimes requires caulking. Use caulk when installing molding and when sealing a door or window. Caulk can also be used to seal showers, bathtubs and sinks.
Prepare the Area for Caulking
- Cut the old caulk out with a caulk tool, razor blade or scraper.
- Remove all paint, dirt, dust, grease and, residue.
- Wipe the joint surface with rubbing alcohol.
- Finish rinsing with water and let dry.
Tape to protect the area
You don't need a mess, tape beside the surface will help produce an nice finish.
Use painters tape to mask off areas around the joint. This will create a straight line and improve the appearance.
Cut the Tip
Caulk comes in many forms from hand held tubes to hard cannisters which insert into an applicator.
- Follow the instructions on the tube and safely cut the nozzle tip using scissors or a utility knife. Many caulk applicators have a built-in nozzle cutter and seal punch.
- The width of bead you lay down is determined by where the nozzle is cut. To create a narrow bead, cut the nozzle close to its tip. For a wider bead, trim off more of the nozzle.
- Always cut the nozzle at a 45-degree angle. Apply the caulk with the tube at an angle, so cutting the nozzle on a slant will help get a smooth bead.
Apply Caulk
If using a caulk applicator or gun. Insert the cartridge into the gun frame and make sure it's snug and secure.
- Press the release at the back of the caulk gun and adjust the rod so the plunger is fully extended.
- Place the nozzle at a 45-degree angle in the middle of the joint. Always start on one end of your project. Try to work in a continuous direction.
- Grasp the tube and slowly squeeze the trigger. Press the nozzle into the joint with enough pressure to force the caulk into the gap.
- At the same time, steadily draw the nozzle along the joint.
- Apply steady pressure to the trigger or tube and fill the gap with an even bead of caulk.
- Release the trigger when it reaches the handle. It will spring back. Then you can continue making a steady bead.
Smooth the Caulk Bead
For a professional-looking finish use a finishing tool or caulking edger. Some professionals will use their finger to smooth caulk while others go back over their work with a damp rag.
- Lightly drag the caulk finishing tool over the bead to smooth it.
- Alternatively, you can use your finger. Moisten your fingertip in warm soapy water and drag it with light pressure along the length of the bead.
- If caulking with tape to mask the area around the caulk, remove the tape before the caulk starts to set.
- To remove the masking tape, lift the end and pull up at a 45-degree angle, away from the surface.
- Wipe away excess caulk with water and a damp cloth before it dries.
Caulking Tips
Curing takes longer than drying. Quick-drying caulks are available.
- Check your caulk tube for the specific dry and cure time instructions.
- To remove excess dried caulk, use a putty knife or caulk tool to cut or scrape it away. If using a paintable caulk, check the tube for paint-ready time.
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