The origins of caulking can be traced back to the seams of wooden boats or ships where the need for the planks to be watertight is paramount. Caulking is the process of using a material, a sealant, to join two seams in structures or piping. It also refers to the material used or to the application of flexible sealing compounds that can close up gaps in buildings so water, air, insects or dust don’t come in. Most caulking products are silicone-based. This material allows joining seams that are water-tight; and, now, there are even some silicones that can be painted using water or oil-based paint. Today, we share with you some tips on how to apply caulking.
Caulking Materials
Make sure you use a dripless caulk gun and a color-matching caulk. Using painter’s tape is useful to make sure you don’t over-apply caulk. Choosing the right caulk is essential. It really comes down to where you will apply the caulk. There are four types of materials: elastomeric, polyurethane, latex or silicone. When working with glass, polyurethane is the best one to choose as it’s very flexible and doesn’t shrink.
Steps for an easy caulking job
- Clean the surface. Remove any old caulk and dirt that might not let you apply the caulk correctly. Use a wire brush to remove particles that might be stuck.
- Prepare your caulking gun with your preferred caulk. Working with a gun that has a cradle is recommended, as tubes seem to fall out of the guns when they don’t have one. Cut the nozzle of the caulk to the size of bead you need and insert the cartridge into the gun.
- Apply caulk to desired area. Make sure you don’t use your wrists if you need to go lower than your standing position. Instead, use your upper body to keep the putter moving. Use your knees if needed. Use your finger or a smoothing tool and remove the tape before it dries out.
- Clean your gun and correctly put away the caulk. Squeeze the caulk until it barely comes out. Clean the spout with a screw to remove any residue. Replace the cap or use a nail in the tube opening. Clean your hands off with a dry cloth before you wash them with water and soap.
JRB Service offers Denver’s top glass repairs and leak diagnostic experts that specialize in the commercial industry. We deliver high-quality customer service and top of the line glass services and repair for you and your business. We have an extensive background in custom glass work and repairs, including caulking jobs. Read more about window glass repair services and the best commercial glass services in Denver.