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Not sure exactly how to use caulk without a gun? We’ll tell what to consider doing caulking jobs without a caulking gun.
You are about to paint or seal some challenging spots and have no caulking gun at hand? Ideally, you should take the time to get one. But if that's not an option, find out how to use caulk without a gun and what you need to keep in mind.
Let’s address that question straight away. Yes, you can, but it is not ideal. Caulking guns have many benefits, such as ensuring all the caulking in the cartridge is used. They also allow you to cover large distances quickly and are easier on your hands for bigger jobs. Above all, however, working with a caulking gun is cleaner and more precise than without.
That's why it's worth investing in a caulking gun, especially when seals are visible such as in the bathroom or kitchen. This not only pays off in terms of clean joints, but also because you can use it for many years.
The two most common types of caulk used around the home are acrylic latex and silicone. Latex caulks are great for general use on trim work, corners, and small repairs. This type of caulk is easy to use, dries fast, and can be painted. Latex caulk cleans up easily with only a damp soapy cloth, making it a great choice for smaller jobs requiring handheld application, as they can often be a challenge to access with precision.
Silicone caulk is best for wet areas and exterior applications due to its higher resistance to moisture. Silicone is also very durable since it remains permanently flexible. However, pure silicone is not paintable. Most types of silicone are available in clear and a variety of colours, so you will likely find a match.
Instead of smoothing out the caulk with your finger, why not try a sealant tool? This handy device has a rounded 90° rubber end for smoothing out sealant, and many have a scraper for removing old sealant on the other end.
Gather these items together before you begin:
caulking or sealant
utility knife or scissors
painter’s tape (if desired)
paint stir-stick (wooden)
rubber or nitrile gloves
water and clean cloth or paper towels
soap or household cleaner
caulking tool
Ready to get started? Here are some easy-to-follow directions when using caulk without a gun:
- Remove old sealant if it needs to be replaced. Loose, cracked, or mouldy caulk should be removed with a caulk removal tool.
- Clean the area and remove any dust or residue. Soap and water or a household cleaner should do fine. Then dry the area with a paper towel or clean cloth.
- Apply painter’s tape along both sides of the joint if you like. This makes it easier to create straight edges and will protect surrounding surfaces.
- Open the caulk tube by cutting the end of the nozzle at a 45° angle with a utility knife. Cut closer to the tube for a larger bead or near the tip for a narrow bead.
- Squeeze the tube from the bottom to dispense caulk. You may find it easier to hold the body of the sealant tube with one hand while squeezing with the other. If using a traditional cartridge, try using a paint stir-stick to press the bottom of the cartridge to push the product out as you apply.
- Starting at one corner, apply an even bead of caulk. Avoid dispensing too much. You want just enough to fill the gap.
- Smooth the caulk and blend the edges on each side. You can use a caulking tool or your gloved finger. Ensure there are no gaps or overlap marks in the caulk.
- Carefully remove the tape if you applied it.
Allow the caulk to dry completely before painting or cleaning.
Are you refreshing the caulk around your trim before repainting a room? LePage Pollyfilla Trim and Baseboard Filler is perfect for such a situation. This acrylic filler is great for sealing gaps and cracks around wood trim, baseboards, and crown moulding. The added silicone gives Pollyfilla extra durability, yet it is paintable and cleans up with water.