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PRACTICAL TIPS FOR HOME IMPROVEMENT DIY-ERS AND CRAFT ENTHUSIASTS

10 Caulking Tips And Tricks For A Perfect (And Painless) Job

Caulking tips and tricks are something the average homeowner should know. Most of us have at least one caulking project to do during home ownership, but more often there are many.

Caulking is one of those jobs that looks good when it done or it looks awful. While it looks intimidating, just knowing a few tips and tricks can make it manageable. Read on to learn about some caulking tips and tricks for your next DIY project. #caulkingtipsandtricks #DIY #Howtocaulk #howtobuilditblog

 Depending on the size of the job, a caulking project is a huge pain. Here are a few caulking tips and tricks to make these projects just a little easier.

Caulking tips and tricks

Caulking Tips and Tricks

Invest in a Pro-Grade Caulking Gun

Do yourself a favor and buy a pro-grade caulking gun rather than a super cheap one. (The pro-grade one should still be only about $10). This will help you apply a much smoother bead of caulk.

caulking tips and tricks

Prep the Job Correctly

Make sure to prepare the area being caulked by cleaning and drying it thoroughly. Use a bleach mixture and brush to clean the area. After that use a rag or cloth to thoroughly dry it.

caulking tips and tricks

Caulk length

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how wide a gap that particular caulk is meant to fill. If you try to fill to large a gap, the caulk may sag. (FYI: caulk works best for gaps up to 1/2” wide).

Use Backer Rod

You can also prevent sag by using backer rod. Backer rod is made of foam and comes in different sizes. Buy some that is slightly larger in diameter than the space you are trying to fill. Cut it to length and insert into the gap, pushing it down in a little. You can caulk right over the rod which prevents sagging!

Be Conservative

When you cut the opening for a caulking bag, start with a small opening and test it out. You don’t want to cut the hole too big—that will make for a messy caulking job. One expert gives the guideline that the hole should be 2/3 the size of the gap you want to fill.

Smooth it Out with Sandpaper

The caulk will come out smoother if you cut the bag at an angle, and if you REALLY want it smooth you should gently smooth and round the end with 100-grit sandpaper.

caulking tips

Pressure and Speed

When you caulk, start at the far end. Pull the gun toward you at a steady pressure and speed. If either of these two things are uneven, your caulk will turn out too blobby or too thin. If needed, practice beforehand so you can get the hang of it.

Smooth with Your Finger

You can easily smooth out the caulk with your finger—just make sure to wear gloves! Don’t push too hard or else you’ll have to re-caulk the whole thing!

Post-Caulk Clean Up

Clean off the tip as you go so the caulk won’t harden on the gun. This is an incredibly important step. If you forget it, you will regret it when you pull the caulk out for your next project. Use soapy water and a wet rag when needed.

Painter's Tape

Apply Tape

For a very precise caulking job, apply masking tape or green painter’s tape to the wall on either side of the joint before you caulk. The tape prevents caulk from staining the surrounding surfaces.

Is painting next on your list? Don’t miss these professional painting tips!

4 thoughts on “10 Caulking Tips And Tricks For A Perfect (And Painless) Job”

  1. Thank you for these tips. One tip I swear by is before smoothing any caulk (especially silicone) put a very small bit of washing up liquid in the water you dip your finger in. Not one piece sticks, ever and leaves beautiful smooth lines. Best tip I was ever given.

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