Caulking in your kitchen and bathroom is not a task to be overlooked. Caulking can keep water from seeping behind walls and into floors in the bathroom and kitchen. Any point of entry for moisture should be sealed, such as around sinks, between the tub and wall, and the area where the toilet meets the floor.
Any areas requiring outside sealing should be caulked inside as well for energy efficiency.
This includes woodwork around exterior doors, windows and receptacles such as dryer vents. A little effort goes a long way and can save you money!
1. Identify the area that you are caulking.
2. Scrape away damaged and old caulk with a utility knife, mini scraper or 5-in-1 tool.
3. Select a waterproof, flexible caulk because the joint will probably expand and contract with changing weather conditions. You will also need to take into account whether the caulk will adhere to aluminum or wood.
4. Once you select the caulk, it is extremely important that you prepare the surface properly.
5, Read the directions on the tube before beginning work because some caulks require that the surface be primed first. In addition, these directions will tell if you are dealing with toxic substances and should take safety precautions.
6. Place your caulking tube into your caulking gun and identify the seam size before cutting the tip off your tube of caulk; cut tip at a 45 degree angle. A standard cartridge of caulk will give you approximately 25 feet of 1/4” bead.
7. Caulk your seam with a steady and consistent movement. It gets easier with practice!
8. Dip your finger in water then drag it along the bead of caulk on your surface for a sealed and finished look.
9. When finished, plug the hole in the caulking tube with a large nail.
For more information, refer to page 99-100 in The Tomboy Tools Guide to Home Improvement.
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