5 Tips to Caulk Like a Pro

Latex caulk is usually used on the interior of your home to fill gaps between walls, ceilings, trim, windows, and doors because it adheres to wood and drywall well. Latex caulk is often referred to as “painters caulk” or “acrylic caulk” because it can be painted to match wherever you are using it. It guards against water penetration but is known to shrink and distort over time. Latex caulk is easy to use and cleans up well. In fact, it’s easier to remove when it needs to be replaced than other types of caulk.

Silicone caulk is the best waterproof barrier against moisture and is mostly used around showers, tubs, sinks, and toilets. It is also good outdoors for protecting your home from water, moisture, and other weather elements. Unlike latex, silicone is stickier making it harder to install and clean up, and paint does not stick to this type of caulk. Silicone is very flexible making it hard to crack or distort. It’s adheres to metal, ceramic, glass, and plastic surfaces. If done properly the first time, silicone caulk can last up to 30 years.

Polyurethane caulk is considered the superior caulk to both silicone and latex because it’s super durable, tear resistant, waterproof, flexible, and able to be painted or stained. Because of its superior ability to adhere to almost any type of surface, polyurethane caulk can be expensive. The only drawback is it’s not as easy to clean because of its sticky, putty-like consistency and requires a cleaning solvent.

If you’re caulking an area where existing caulk once was, make sure that the old caulk is completely removed. Using a utility knife to remove the old caulk works well. Vacuum the area and wipe clean so that you have a smooth surface to work with. If you’re wanting an extra safe guard for the perfect bead of caulk, it’s recommended you apply painters tape on the top and bottom of the joint you plan to caulk before you start.

One common beginners mistake is going too slow and ending up with too much caulk on the line. The key to the perfect bead is to keep moving, stay steady, and apply even pressure. Match the speed you move along the line to the speed you are pulling the trigger. Also, be aware of the angle of the tip.

There are a wide variety of caulking products out there, so be sure to check out all of our options at doitbest.com. We have trusted brands like DAP, who are known throughout the industry for their easy-to-use caulks, sealants, and adhesives. DAP’s ALEX PLUS^® is America’s #1 selling latex caulk. Ship it for free to one of our local, independently-owned stores today!