How To Caulk Cracks And Gaps In Your Home

How To Caulk

Instructions for caulking gaps and cracks in and around your home:

Clean Surface

Remove old caulk from the surface where you plan to apply. Wipe away dirt and loose particles with a clean cloth. For concrete or stone application, use a wire brush to scrub the surface clean of any debris.

Tip: Use masking tape to create a straight edge where you plan to apply the caulk. Just remove the tape immediately after applying so it doesn’t adhere to the surface with the caulk!

Using the caulk + caulking gun

Cut the nozzle on the tube of caulk to the desired size you want your bead to be. Pierce the inner seal of the tube with a bent paperclip or stiff wire. Insert the prepped tube into a caulking gun.

Using the trigger of the caulking gun, slowly squeeze out caulk from the tube, using consistent pressure to maintain control.

Work your way around the area you want to seal.

Smoothing The Seal

Use a clean finger or caulk-smoothing tool within the first 2-5 minutes of application to smooth the seal.

Clean Up

Squeeze the caulk up until it’s just about to come out of the tube. Replace the cap or use a nail to seal the opening shut.

Wipe your hands with a dry cloth to remove any excess caulk and then wash your hands with soap and water.

To touch up the area around the seal, use mineral spirits to remove any excess silicone caulk.

For more intense projects, contact a professional like go2-pros to help get the job done right. Contact us today!