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Step 1
Know the different kinds of sealant available. The two major kinds are latex and silicone, with variations of both available. Siliconized latex is one of the newest combinations out there. Another new kind is polyurethane.
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Step 2
Choose latex caulk if you have an area that you want to paint over. Latex caulk is easy to apply, clean up and replace. This caulk is sometimes referred to as painter's caulk or latex/acrylic caulk.
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Step 3
Consider silicone caulk for exterior areas of your home that receive the most brutal weather. Silicone caulk can withstand the punishing rays of the sun and temperature fluctuations better than latex caulk or combination caulks. While not paintable, you can choose a tinted silicone caulk to closely match the area you're sealing.
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Step 4
Select silicone caulk to seal around bathtubs, showers and toilets. Some silicone caulks have a special mildewcide formulation for bathrooms. (Don't use mildewcide silicone caulk in the kitchen area.)
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Step 5
Choose caulking cord as weather stripping around windows and doors. You can use another product called oakum to fill wide joints before caulking.
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Step 6
Look at the specialty caulks available, including blacktop sealant, mortar caulk, siding and window sealant, roof sealant, concrete sealant and gutter and flashing sealant.
