Back then, when wooden ships were used for overseas transportation, shipbuilders used a product called caulk. They applied it to fill spaces and holes around the ship and keep the vessel from letting water seep in. 

Today, the construction of homes and commercial spaces depends on caulk to keep the buildings airtight. Caulk helps these structures eliminate drafts, store heat, and prevent moisture from building up.

Caulking Mistakes That Are Easily Avoidable

Caulking works by fixing itself around the edges of the surfaces you want to seal. You squeeze a caulking tube containing your choice of caulking and apply it along the spaces that require sealing. Caulking seems like a simple task, but there are numerous pitfalls that, left unchecked, could lead to expensive damage to properties. 

If you’re looking to apply caulking to your property, here is a list of mistakes you should watch out for:

1. Choosing the Wrong Caulk

First things first, before you begin caulking, you need to know what kind you need. Caulking comes in different variations and is used for applications of various purposes.

• Silicone Caulking – Silicone caulking is more pliable and flexible and is used for sealing sinks, window panes, and other areas where flexibility is a must.
• Acrylic Caulking – On the other hand, acrylic caulking, which is more rigid and durable, is necessary for sealing joints and cracks in walls and other surfaces.
• Masonry Caulking – Masonry caulking is the type of caulk used to seal spaces in contact with water, like gaps between stones or bricks.

2. Failing to Prepare the Area

A common mistake of people applying caulk is failing to clean the area they’re working on thoroughly. Make sure you scrape out any dirt, grime, or moisture from the surface you’re working on to prevent the caulk from peeling off later.

3. Applying Caulk in Excess

Most people tend to apply too much caulk. Excess caulk makes it harder for you to remove it, and in some cases, could lead the caulk to peel. When using the product, spread it in thin lines along the area you’re working on. It’s also best to place the caulk in two or three stages rather than putting it all in one go.

4. Not Using Backing Material

Before you apply the caulking, you need to provide a backing material to keep the area you’re working on firmly in place. It is essential if you’re applying the caulk between two surfaces that are not level with one another or have significant gaps.

Seal the Deal

Experience is key when it comes to caulking. Some people have the knack for it and get it right the first time. Others have to experiment a little to get the right amount of caulk. There are many ways you can research to get it right. The internet is the perfect place to start. You can find plenty of videos that show you how to do it step by step. You can also visit your local hardware store and ask around if they have any advice. If all else fails, a professional will get the job done for a fair price.

Get your caulking advice from experts who know their stuff. If you’re looking for quality caulking and cleaning services, get in touch with Quality Seal Australia. We are a company that provides good service to the building industry in Brisbane and Gold Coast.