When you change the colours of a room, you might think of which shades of paint you want, the type of finish that’s best for the space, or the primer that creates the smoothest base. However, there is more to it than that—for example, you need a proper caulking job before you start. Without good caulking, your entire project could fail! Whether you’re hiring caulking contractors or want to try the DIY route, here are things to keep in mind about this stage of a painting project.

Caulking Seals Gaps and Cracks

Proper caulking in rooms plays a critical supporting role in painting projects. It patches up gaps and cracks, smoothens uneven areas, and prevents damage from moisture, pests, and temperature fluctuations. Moisture can come in through small gaps and cracks and ruin your paint finish. Sealing painted surfaces with caulking products lower the impact of moisture, drafts, and extreme heat on vulnerable areas. Proper caulking also reduces pest intrusion, keeping your home safer and cleaner.

Areas vulnerable to caulk damage from wear and tear are your cabinets, trim and moulding, countertops, baseboards, doors, and windows. Before a paint job, inspect the caulking on these areas and repair as necessary.

Caulking Provides a Finished Look to a Home

Besides protecting your home from damage, caulking makes your property look complete. With sealed gaps and filled seams, your rooms and spaces will have a clean finish. Also, caulking provides a like-new effect to painted surfaces. It makes your paint job look cleaner, which means a better first impression on visitors or new tenants.

Different Jobs Use Different Types of Caulk

Before you begin, make sure you have the right caulk for the project; there are types suitable for interiors and ones that are for exteriors. Also, you need high-quality tools for your caulking job. When you scrimp on tools and products, you might not get the best results. If you use low-quality products, the caulk might not get into the necessary areas and leave gaps or an uneven finish. Caulking contractors will know which types of caulk are the best for which areas in the house.

Mind the Temperature When Applying Caulk

Avoid extreme temperatures or direct sunlight when you are doing exterior caulking. These weather conditions make caulk more prone to premature damage. Also, watch the amount you use. If your beads are too small, they won’t seal gaps properly. However, if you put in too much, you risk applying caulk unevenly or drying it incompletely. These will both cause complications later in your paint project.

Also, keep in mind that caulking needs smoothening after you insert the beads. The caulk must dry flat, so it can fully seal the gaps. Finally, allow drying time for the caulk. Painting over caulk when it isn’t scorched will cause shrinkage and cracking, compromising the caulk and paint simultaneously.

Conclusion

A DIY caulking job has its risks, just like painting or repairing your home or property does. Since this is detailed work and involves getting into cracks, corners, and other hard-to-reach areas, you might not realise you have made a mistake until it’s too late. Set yourself up for success and avoid time-consuming do-overs by hiring professionals to do the job for you!

Bring out the best in your home when you go for Quality Seal Australia. We are caulking contractors in Brisbane and the Gold Coast, guided by expertise and the stringent demands of Australian building standards. Get in touch with us for enquiries!