5 Easy Steps to Caulk Like a Professional

Caulking may seem like a simple home improvement project. But if you’ve ever sealed a bathtub before, then you know that one small mistake can easily turn everything into a mess. Caulking requires practice and the knowledge to pick the right caulk for the job.

Handyman Connection® of Boise shares the five steps to caulking like a professional.

1. Choose Your Caulk – Caulk usually comes in three different varieties: latex, butyl rubber and silicone. Vinyl latex caulk works best for dry areas while silicone caulk is ideal for wet areas. It’s important to choose the right caulk for the job to prevent any issues later. The best choices are latex and silicone if you’re working on an interior repair.

2. Remove and Clean – For an effective caulk repair, it’s important to first remove the old caulk and prepare the surface properly. You can use a retractable razor blade scraper to remove the old caulk from the tile and the tub. Scrape them clean, and vacuum up any debris.

3. Use Tape – Once you’ve cleaned both surfaces, use tape to mask the edges of the joint. This allows you to decide the width of the joint while protecting the surrounding materials from the caulk. Mask off the surfaces with blue painter’s tape. Make sure to use long sections of tape, and apply them in a straight line.

4. Apply the New Caulk – Cut the tip of the caulk at a 45-degree angle, and use a long nail to puncture the inner seal. Apply the caulk carefully at a 45-degree angle, making sure to get it fully into the joint. Don’t rush this, but instead work at a slow and consistent speed to ensure flawless results. The smoother the joint is in the beginning, the easier your job will be.

5. Make Sure to Smooth the Joint – After applying the caulk, it’s time to smooth the joint. Since we used tape earlier, instead of a messy surface, your caulk joint will be left with a clean, sharp edge, which makes your job easier. To smooth the joint, wet your finger with alcohol if you used silicone and water if you used latex, and work from one end to the other. Continue smoothing until the entire taped section is finished.

Handyman Connection of Boise offers various home improvement services to help improve your home’s beauty and comfort. Contact us here to learn more about our services. You can also request an estimate.