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What is caulk used for?
Caulk is most often used to waterproof windows, door frames, and plumbing fixtures. Caulk can also be formulated for general purpose adhesive use in construction, where it also forms a waterproof barrier.
What are the different types of caulk?
There four most common types of caulk are:
Silicone caulk - the most common type of caulk for waterproofing because it is durable, flexible, and resistant to mold and mildew.
Latex caulk - general purpose, applies smoothly, and can be painted more easily than other types.
Rubber caulk - makes strong waterproof bonds between different types of material making it ideal for use in and around RVs, mobile homes, and for installing skylights.
Cement caulk - specially designed to fill and waterproof gaps and cracks in concrete and cement, such as foundation walls.
What is the difference between sealant and caulk?
Sealant is typically sprayed on joints and structural cracks and can expand to fill large cracks. Caulks are usually applied directly from a tube, sometimes with a caulking gun, and do not expand.
What do I need to know before buying caulk?
The most important thing to consider is whether you need it for indoor or outdoor waterproofing, and whether you want to paint over it afterwards. Make sure the curing time is short enough if your project is time sensitive.
What do I need to apply caulk?
A caulking gun is a good investment, though small tubes of caulk can be used by hand. A scraper is important if you are replacing or removing old caulk. You will want a rag for cleaning and a plastic or metal edger to shape caulk into the joint or space where you want it to cure.
