How to Up Your Caulking Game

When it comes to filling in seams between tiles, caulk is a useful material that can be easier to deal with than grout. It can substitute grout in certain situations and its versatility and simpler installation makes it a favorite for many homeowners.

Even though caulk might not be as difficult to use as grout, that doesn’t mean it doesn’t come with its share of challenges. If you struggle when using a caulk gun, read on for some DIY tips that will help you become more successful.

Start with a Clean Surface

If you don’t start with a clean surface, you’re doomed for failure.

Use a razor to remove old caulk cutting it away from the tiles and scraping it away with a knife. Then clean any residue with alcohol.

Know what You’re Dealing With

Make sure the bead is consistent with the gap you are filing. If you are filling a big gap, your caulk line will be wide while thinner gaps will take thinner caulk lines.

Ensuring your gaps and caulk lines match up will result in a neater, more attractive end product.

Steps to Take

Once caulk it clean, here are the steps you will want to take.

Cut the tip of the caulk tube at a 45-degree angle. Try to cut a hole that is wide enough to fill the gap you are caulking.
Puncture the membrane on your caulk tube using the membrane rod on the tube or any long, thin object. This may seem like an obvious step, but many novice caulkers forget to do this and end up blowing out the tube.
Place the tube in the caulk gun.
If you are working in a vertical line, work from the top down. If you are working in a horizontal line, you can start on any side you feel comfortable with.
Slowly squeeze the trigger allowing the caulk to release from the tube. Move the tip making sure the caulk fills the gap. Don’t be overly concerned with how it looks. If the caulk falls out, press it in with your fingers.
Once caulking is done, wet your index finger and run it over the lines. Rinse off any excess that gets on your fingers. Don’t worry if it’s still not looking great.
Wet your grout sponge and wring it out so it’s damp. Use the corner of the sponge to gently wipe at your lines in an up and down continuous motion. Once the corner of the sponge accumulates excess caulk, switch to another corner. When all corners are full of caulk, rinse the sponge. Repeat the process until all lines are clean. This step will neaten up the look of the caulk.
Clean excess caulk of the tile and, voila, you’re done.

Caulking is a good alternative to grout in some circumstances and it can provide a simpler installation if you know what you’re doing. The tips in this article will get you closer to achieving a terrific finished product. Good luck getting your home looking its best.