How to know what type of Caulk to use

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By MariM
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Acrylic Latex Caulk

Caulk is a product that can be used for many different home improvements. In this article I will go over the different types of caulk available and the jobs you will use them for. Caulking can keep your home more energy efficient. Sealing up all those cracks around doors and windows inside and out will eliminate those cold or hot drafts and much more.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Write down information and learn or take to the store with you.

Step 1

Painter latex caulk- Most affordable brand-Use this before or after painting inside. Use around windows, doors and floor moldings. Does not stand up to tempreture change well so use indoors only.
Step 2

Acrylic latex caulk- More durable than painters caulk because it includes acrylic, interior and exterior, easy clean-up with warm water. Use this type for same jobs as painters caulk but use outside as well.
Step 3

Tub and Tile caulk, Used for recaulking tubs, sinks, anywhere there is water. Outside as well. Cleans up with water
Step 4

Siliconized Latex Caulk-Very durable,Latex with silicone, a little trickier to apply and more expensive but is better for outside window and trim. Can also be painted and cleans up with water.
Step 5

100% Silicone Caulk- Use this to seal ceramic tile,glass and metal surfaces. Not to good on wood and masonary. A stickier substance to work with. Cannot be painted because it is more like a rubbery sealant. Use solvent for clean-up. Has a very strong odor so use ventilation.
Step 6

Adhesive caulk- Used for installing sinks and tiles. Dries harder and less flexability.

Concrete and Mortar repair- For cracks in concrete or brick mortar. Easy water clean-up. Has a gritty feel to it.
Step 7

There are also squeezable tubes you can purchase as well. These are easy for small jobs.
Step 8

No Drip Caulking Gun

There are a few types of Caulking guns you can purchase. No Drip and manual release guns. The No drip is the one I use because it automatically stops the caulk when you release the trigger. The manual release you have to push the button to make it stop. This one can be much more messy and frustrating. I reccommend the No Drip.
Step 9

I hope this article help you to gain some knowledge on the types of caulk and different jobs they are for. When you go to your local hardware store you won't be so confused, wondering which kind you should purchse. make sure to pick a caulking gun up as well.