Before starting any painting project, check the condition of your walls. Caulk can be one of the most essential tools of painting. You may find gaps between the molding and the walls especially around doors and windows, as well as between the baseboards and the walls. It's important to seal these holes before you paint for a finished, professional appearance. Patching holes with caulk is easy and is only as time consuming as you have gaps to fill.
Things You'll Need
Paint-able caulk (silicon acrylic)
Caulk gun
Scissors or box cutter
Glass cleaner
Paper towels or soft sponge
Water
How to Patch Holes With Caulk
Step 1
Snip the end of your caulk tube to create a small opening. You'll want the hole of the tube to be no wider than the gap you are trying to fill.
Step 2
Spray a bit of glass cleaner on the area and on your hand before you begin if the wall is painted. This will keep the excess caulk from clinging to the painted wall. If the wall has not been painted yet, skip this step.
Step 3
Run a line of caulk directly into the gap to patch the hole. If you don't have enough caulk you can treat the area again, but if you use too much, you may have a difficult time removing it and making a clean line.
Step 4
Run your finger along the edge of where you applied the caulk. Your finger should be slightly damp as you press the caulk into the hole and remove excess caulk from the edges.
Step 5
Gently wipe the area with a damp sponge or paper towel, running it down the edge of the wall. This should smooth or remove any caulk still outside of the gap.
Tip
Use a glazing compound to fill in finishing nail holes in your baseboards rather than the caulk. Work the compound in your hand to soften it up and then apply it with your finger to fill the hole.
Warning
Double check your tube of caulk before you buy to be sure you are purchasing paint-able caulk. The last thing you want is to paint your room to find bright white streaks along every wall seam.