Caulking Tips

There are several common types of caulk. Silicone-based caulk - bonds to almost anything, isn't paintable. Acrylic or Latex-based caulk - similar to silicone-based caulk, but is paintable. Clear caulk - primarily good for allowing the project surface to show through. Concrete or Masonry caulk - ideal for concrete and masonry surfaces.

•    Caulk comes in 2 types of containers - cylinders and squeeze tubes. Cylinders requires the use of a caulk gun while squeeze tubes can be applied directly to a project surface.
•    Many types of caulk come in colors for matching the caulk color to the surface color.
•    Caulk can only fill in spaces about 1/4 inches deep, so large holes or voids must be filled in with some other material first. Then, caulk can be applied on the surface as a sealant.
Procedure for Using a Caulk Gun
•    Use the cutting tool to snip off the end of (or open) a new tube of caulk.
•    Use the thin metal rod to puncture the seal inside a new cylinder of caulk.
•    Put the cylinder of caulk in the caulk gun and use the trigger to pump caulk onto the surface of the project where desired.
•    Applying caulk in this way is called laying a bead of caulk. When the bead is in place, use a damp rag to smooth out the surface of the caulk and bond it to the project.
Some Common Exterior Uses of Caulk
•    Filling in the gap between a window and the molding (brick mold) around it.
•    Filling in gaps where different surfaces meet (such as a foundation and siding).
•    Filling in holes in the concrete block of a foundation (use masonry caulk).
•    Use a putty knife to make sure the caulk bonds to the surfaces around it.
•    Filling in the gap between a sidewalk and foundation.
Some Common Interior Uses of Caulk
•    Prevent moisture from getting into gaps between walls, bathtubs, countertops and sinks. Filling in gaps where different surfaces meet, such as ceramic tile and baseboard.