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. If you find once you have painted the caulk with emulsion it cracks, you can go over the caulk with an oil-based undercoat, let it dry, then re-emulsion the caulk. 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. Draw the tip of the caulk tube along the length of the joint as you slowly squeeze the handle of the caulk gun, working at a speed that is slow and consistent. Kevin Turner is a handyman and the owner of Red Gator Maintenance, a handyman business based in Fresno, California. Remove all old caulk from the joint to be filled. Bob Formisano is a licensed architect and builder with 30 years of experience in the industry. To apply, use constant pressure and keep the caulk gun or tube moving at a steady pace to produce an even bead. Press this with your thumb. This article was co-authored by Kevin Turner. There are a number of different caulks, colors, and dispensing methods from which to choose. Remove any existing caulk using caulk remover or a utility knife. You want to cut the tube of caulk at a 45 degree angle, and start small. Introducing "One Thing": A New Video Series, The Spruce Gardening & Plant Care Review Board, The Spruce Renovations and Repair Review Board. 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. Once you’ve got the hang of it, move on to the actual caulking task. Try using a caulk finishing tool as you practice. Immediately remove the blue painter's tape used to mask the joint. https://www.thisoldhouse.com/ideas/laying-down-perfect-bead, https://www.thisoldhouse.com/how-to/how-to-caulk-around-tub, http://www.homedepot.com/c/how_to_caulk_HT_PG_PA, http://www.prettyhandygirl.com/tool-tutorial-friday-how-to-use-a-caulk-gun/, consider supporting our work with a contribution to wikiHow. The goal is to seal these edges so caulk cannot seep beneath it. Apply the caulk at a 45-degree angle between horizontal and perpendicular. Some caulk guns have a built-in snipper to clip the tip of the caulk tube, as well as a puncture wire to break the seal. Applying caulk to windows also keeps out moisture, which can cause paint to peel and wood to rot. For exterior jobs, butyl rubber works great. It is always better to use less caulk than too much. Using light pressure, smooth the caulk joint, working from one end to the other. Caulk typically comes in three varieties: latex, silicone, and butyl rubber. There is a small trigger on the back of the caulking gun. Lift a corner of the tape along the tub and pull it off at a steep angle while the … Then use your finger or a caulk tool to smooth the bead into the seam so it looks tidy. Home improvement stores sell caulk remover products that will chemically remove old caulk. Keep a bucket of water nearby to rinse out your smoothing rag as you work. 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. It has many different uses. By using our site, you agree to our. As your finger becomes laden with excess caulk, wipe it off with the dampened rag and re-wet your finger. wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Use silicone caulk if you need a neutral-colored waterproof sealant. 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. Silicone caulk is typically only available in three shades – clear, white, and almond. {"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":"