Caulking Like a Pro

Caulking seems like a simple job. However, it can be frustrating for someone with no experience. We often see “how to” articles where caulking seems like a very doable task, but it hardly ever proves to be so. Getting a smooth, consistent finished caulk job can be difficult.

Here’s a great technique for getting professional caulk results every time.

You Need The Following Tools and Materials:

• Caulk (type appropriate to the intended use)

• Caulk gun

• Retractable razor blade scraper

• Blue painters’ tape

• Rubbing alcohol (if using silicone caulk)

• Several small cotton rags (like from a T-shirt)

Select Your Caulk and Dispenser

First, determine the proper caulk for the job. Caulk comes in three varieties: latex, silicone and butyl rubber. Use vinyl latex for dry areas, silicone for wet areas and butyl rubber for exterior jobs. For interior home repair, use either a latex caulk or silicone caulk. You can buy caulks in either squeeze tubes or cartridges. For best results, use a caulk cartridge and a smooth action caulking gun.

Remove Old Caulk and Clean

Preparing the surfaces is important for an effective caulk repair. Remove the old caulk with a retractable razor blade scraper. Scrape all the old stuck-on caulk off both surfaces such as the tile and tub.

Tape off Both Surfaces

Masking both edges of the joint with blue painters’ tape allows you to set the width of the joint. It also protects the surrounding finish material from the caulk. Secure the edge of the tape along the caulk joint.

Apply Caulk

After cleaning and masking the joint, you’re ready to caulk. Apply the caulk at a 45-degree angle between horizontal and perpendicular. Work slow and consistent. The smoother the joint, the easier the job will be.

Smooth the Joint

Press the joint smooth with your finger. If tape masking is not used, the caulk will smear and spread onto both surfaces. But, with the tape masking technique, your caulk joint will be a clean, sharp edge. Use firm pressure working from one end to the other to smooth the caulk joint. Continue smoothing the entire taped section.

For a caulking job done by a pro, turn to Handyman Connection of Novi. We turn your home improvement dreams into reality. Our craftsmen have the expertise to get the job done and done right. Call us at (248) 255-4080.