Caulking keeps mice and mildew out of your home. But, you need to know how to use a caulk gun first.
Caulking is easy and affordable to do at home. It fills cracks around windows, doors, and showers with a waterproof seal. This stops mold, leaks, and bugs from getting in.
It also keeps drafts out, saving you money on energy. To do this, you just need good caulk, a basic tool, and some patience. We’ll show you how to use a caulk gun for great results.
Tools & Materials
- Caulking gun
- Utility knife
- Caulk
Before You Begin
The type of caulk you need depends on the job. For areas like showers or bathtubs, use a silicone caulk. It seals and repels moisture, fighting mildew and mold.
For areas less exposed to water or sunlight, like basement floors, latex caulk is better. It fills gaps well but breaks down faster than silicone when exposed to rain or sunlight. Your local hardware store can guide you.
It’s okay to caulk over old caulk, but removing old caulk is better. Use tools like putty knives or wire brushes to clean the surface. A small vacuum helps with debris in tight spots.
After cleaning, make sure the area is dry. This step is critical: Moisture trapped in caulk can cause mold. So, let it dry completely before applying new caulk.
STEP 1: Select the correct size of tool.
Choosing the right caulking gun is key for your project. The size you need depends on the caulk tube. There are two main sizes: 10 and 29 ounces. Make sure the gun fits the tube size.
Battery-powered guns are nice, but they’re not necessary. A simple ratchet-style gun works well and is cheaper. Avoid very cheap guns as they might break easily. Spend a bit more for a durable tool.
STEP 2: Cut open the tube of caulk.
Many caulk guns have a small blade in the handle. This makes it easy to open caulk tubes. If your gun doesn’t have a built-in cutter, use a utility knife to cut the nozzle tip.
The size of the opening depends on the job. For fine work like hiding imperfections on new trim, cut at a 45-degree angle. For bigger jobs, like applying construction adhesive, make a straight cut in the middle.
Next, use something sharp like a nail or wire to poke through the seal. Many caulking guns also have a poker for this step.
STEP 3: Load the caulk gun.
To load a caulk gun, first press the release trigger on its handle. Then, pull the metal rod all the way back. Each gun is different, but the hook should face down at a 90-degree angle.
With the rod back, insert a new tube of caulk. Place the flat base of the tube at the gun’s back. Let the nozzle rest at the front. Gently push the metal rod back into place as far as it will go.
STEP 4: Test the bead and trigger speed.
Before you start, test the caulk gun on paper or cardboard. Hold it at a 45-degree angle and squeeze the trigger gently. This will create a bead of caulk.
Keep squeezing the trigger lightly and pull the gun towards you slowly. If you go too slow, the caulk will clump. If you go too fast, it will be too thin and uneven.
Avoid letting too much caulk build up as you squeeze and release the trigger. This will help you get a smooth application.
STEP 5: Apply the caulk.
Once you get the hang of it, apply the caulk to your chosen surface. Try to move along the line smoothly and steadily. After you’ve caulked, use a wet finger or a tool to smooth it out.
This will help you achieve a professional look. The gentle pressure will make the caulk lines even and smooth.
Tip: For indoor projects, painter’s tape is essential. It helps you avoid caulk in unwanted areas and creates sharp edges. Make sure to leave about 1/8 inch of space on both sides of the caulk line for a tight seal.
STEP 6: Plug the tube to preserve leftover caulk.
After you finish your project, it’s a good idea to save leftover caulk for touch-ups. Most caulk tubes don’t have lids. But, you can seal the opening with a nail.
You might also use a wire nut or buy a special plug. This keeps the caulk fresh for later use.
