How to Load a Caulk Tube
Do-it-yourself home improvements are a great way to save a pretty penny. They also provide you with the pride and satisfaction of not needing to hire a contractor to maintain your home. One of the most common maintenance issues a homeowner tackles on his own is caulking around tubs, sinks, windows or other areas prone to moisture. One way to make the job easier is to use a caulking gun. When used properly, the caulking gun can cut your labor time in half. That is, if you can figure out how to actually load the deceptively simple looking apparatus. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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1
Pull the "plunger" at the rear of the caulking gun all the way back until it locks into place. You should be able to let go of the plunger without it retracting once it is fully extended.
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2
Insert the caulking tube into the housing of the gun approximately at a 45-degree angle, with the rear of the tube at the base of the angle and the nozzle end engaged last. Make sure the tube is resting tightly against the casing before continuing.
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3
Push the plunger forward slowly, which will ultimately result in it resting directly under the caulking tube. Many caulking gun models have notches on the plunger that make a slight "snap" once placed correctly.
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4
Determine the size of hole you will need at the tip of the caulking tube, depending on the width of the area you are sealing. The further up on the tube you make the cut, the wider the coverage.
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5
Cut the tip of the caulking tube at an angle. It is recommended that you use a utility knife, as opposed to scissors, to ensure a cleaner, more precise cut.
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6
Penetrate the seal at the base of the tube, inside the nozzle, with a small nail to allow the caulk to be dispensed.
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7
Squeeze the trigger on the caulking gun gently a few times to ensure proper loading.
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Tips & Warnings
Some caulking manufacturers provide a graduated scale directly on the nozzle of the caulking tube to help you determine the exact location to cut the tubing for your particular project.
Some caulking guns come equipped with a built in device to cut the tip of the tube before inserting it into the casing.
