Caulk & Sealants

Caulk is essentially a flexible sealant used to fill gaps and joints between two different surfaces. Think of it as the protective “gasket” for your home that keeps water, air, and pests from sneaking into places they don’t belong. It comes in several varieties, but the most common are silicone (perfect for wet areas like bathrooms) and acrylic latex, which is often used for trim because it’s easy to paint. For those of us living in SWMO and NWAR, maintaining a good seal around windows and doors is the first line of defense against our humid summers and biting winter drafts. It’s a simple material that does the heavy lifting of keeping your house airtight and dry, saving you money on utility bills over the long haul.

The biggest frustration with Caulk is finding your half-used tube has turned into a solid plastic brick. To keep it fresh, you need to create an airtight seal at the tip immediately after use. We suggest using a long screw or a specialized “caulk cap” that twists onto the nozzle to block out any air. Some of our neighbors in swear by the “electrical tape” method, where you tightly wrap the tip to create a temporary vacuum. If you can keep oxygen away from the opening, a tube can easily last for several months of small touch-ups around the house. It’s a lot better than having to run back to the store every time you find one tiny gap that needs filling.

Applying a clean bead starts with how you prep the nozzle and the surface. You’ll want to cut the tip of the tube at a 45-degree angle, making sure the opening is just wide enough to cover the gap you’re filling. Always use a utility knife for a sharp, clean cut; using wire cutters can crush the tip and lead to a messy, uneven flow. Before you even touch the trigger, make sure the area is completely free of old Caulk, dust, and soap scum. A clean surface is the only way to get a bond that actually lasts. If you’re nervous about a steady hand, try applying a strip of painter’s tape to both sides of the joint to keep your lines perfectly straight.