Then use a damp rag to wipe the surface down again. The easiest way to caulk is with a caulk gun. Try using a caulk finishing tool as you practice. Home improvement stores sell caulk remover products that will chemically remove old caulk. Apply the Silicone Caulk. It also prevents water from getting behind the stall or tub, which can lead to mold and rot, not to mention potentially leaking onto the ceiling below the bathroom. Remove Old Caulk and Clean the Surface. There are two main kinds of caulk – silicone and acrylic latex. Open the caulk tube by cutting the tip of the nozzle at a 45-degree angle, using a utility knife, then insert a long, clean nail or wire into the nozzle to puncture the inner seal. This can be done with your fingernail to ensure a tight seal, or with a wooden popsicle or craft stick. In years past a do-it-yourselfer who wanted seal doors and windows with caulk without a caulking gun was in for a very messy experience at best. Check inside the nozzle for a foil seal. You want to cut the tube of caulk at a 45 degree angle, and start small. If you dislike the idea of getting caulk on your fingers, you can use a rounded craft stick (popsicle stick) instead of your finger, or wear a tight-fitting latex glove. By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy. It will bond with a lot of different kinds of surfaces. Caulks can be purchased in either squeeze tubes or in cartridges that are loaded into a caulk gun. For caulk joints in corners, such as where wall tile meets a tub, sink, or countertop, a caulk removal tool works great. Keep in mind that these products will damage plastic surfaces. Cut the tip of the nozzle of the tube that contains the caulk using a utility … References. Applying caulk to windows also keeps out moisture, which can cause paint to peel and wood to rot. caulk Step 1: Prepare the Surface " Step 2: Tape the Area " Step 3: Cut the Nozzle " Step 4: Apply the Caulk " Step 5: Smooth the Caulk Bead " Step 6: How to Use a Caulk Gun " In reality, most people simply have never learned the correct way to apply caulk, and more often than not, the job ends up being a mess. Unless specifically noted on the packaging, latex caulk isn't suitable for any exterior surfaces. Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 23,147 times. For silicone clean up, soak a rag with mineral spirits (such as turpentine) and wipe the surface down with it. Get daily tips and tricks for making your best home. Remove the tape away slowly, and pull it away from the joint at an angle, not toward the joint. Working on handyman-related projects since the age of 12, Kevin specializes in a wide variety of home improvement projects such as (but not limited to) lighting/electrical, plumbing, deck staining, drywall repairs, cabinet installation, air conditioning, trash removal, and window, roof, and appliance repairs. Poke through the seal a few times to ensure a smooth flow of caulk. If you don't stop frequently to neaten the caulk, the earlier portions might dry before you can neaten or mend errors. Continue the smoothing process until the entire taped section you're working on is finished. When you need to caulk in a spot that's too tight for a caulk gun, try this: Cut a sharp angle on the end of a plastic straw, just as you'd cut the spout of a caulk tube. An ice cube is another alternative. How to Fix Mortar Gaps in a Fireplace Firebox, How to Choose the Right Caulk for Your Next Project, How to Remove Old Caulk From a Tub, Shower, or Sink, How to Install a Soap Dish on a Tile Wall, Paint Interior Window Trim and Spruce Up a Room. If you learn a few simple steps, though, your caulk jobs will look like they've been done by a pro. Then use your finger or a caulk tool to smooth the bead into the seam so it looks tidy. This article was co-authored by Kevin Turner. Step 5 Once the latex caulking has dried, you are now ready to paint it the color of your choice. Press the tip firmly against one corner of the window and apply caulk to the next corner in a continuous bead, just thick enough to fill the gap. Online shopping for DIY & Tools from a great selection of Adhesive Caulk, Tape Caulk, Silicone Caulk, Rope Caulk, Vinyl Caulk, Latex Caulk & more at everyday low prices. It’s important to choose the right caulk for your particular project, since the two types operate differently. Caulk typically comes in three varieties: latex, silicone, and butyl rubber. There is a small trigger on the back of the caulking gun. Wet your finger with either rubbing alcohol (for silicone caulk) or water (for latex caulk). You’ll have to scrape off dried caulk if you want to neaten it. Silicone caulk is a completely waterproof and flexible sealant. Kevin Turner is a handyman and the owner of Red Gator Maintenance, a handyman business based in Fresno, California. Before caulking, apply strips of painter’s tape vertically on both sides of the area you’re caulking to ensure that the line will be straight. This way, you will cut the edges of the caulk. Apply strips of blue painter's tape to mask off both surfaces at the point where you want the edge of the caulk bead to stop. Without it you won’t be able to use it. wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Peel off the tape. Apply the caulk at a 45-degree angle between horizontal and perpendicular. Like painting, caulking is one of those home improvement projects that people like to feel that they already know how to do. Check the neatness of the line every 5 feet, and smooth it out with a damp rag or putty knife, if necessary. Acrylic latex caulk shrinks up more than silicone. The caulking around a shower base or tub serves more than an aesthetic purpose. This article was co-authored by Kevin Turner. Both kinds of caulk need a clean surface, but if you’re using silicone, it’s imperative that you remove all debris and residue from the surface before you begin. If you paint caulk, it will take longer to dry. As your finger becomes laden with excess caulk, wipe it off with the dampened rag and re-wet your finger. Silicone caulk is typically only available in three shades – clear, white, and almond. There are a number of rubber caulking tools readily available which work quite well to smooth the caulk. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/3e\/Caulk-Step-1-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Caulk-Step-1-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/3e\/Caulk-Step-1-Version-2.jpg\/aid2676393-v4-728px-Caulk-Step-1-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"546","licensing":"