If you think that using decorator’s caulk is optional, think again! Our guide will show you why paintable caulk is an essential part of the painting process, and not just for aesthetic reasons: it serves an important practical purpose too.
If you’re in a hurry to get a job done, you might overlook sealing. However, when properly applied, decorator’s caulk makes all the difference. It’s especially useful when painting crown moulding, wall joints, baseboards and countertops, as it fills in gaps and creates a smoother, more professional look. No more unsightly gaps or holes!
Another advantage of the flexible filler is its versatility. You can apply it to dry wall, brick, metal, concrete, plaster, masonry, wood, and many other common materials. It will come in handy if you need to seal a joint between two different kinds of material, such as brick and concrete.
Here’s how to get professional-looking walls joints.
- Prepare the surface. Remove any old caulk with a razor blade scraper and clean the surface.
- Apply painter’s tape. Attach the tape to both sides of the joint for neater lines.
- Prepare the sealant cartridge. Use a knife or pair of scissors to cut off the tip of the cartridge above the screw thread. Remove nozzle cap and trim nozzle diagonally to fit the joint width. Screw the nozzle onto the cartridge.
- Place the cartridge in the caulk gun. Test the sealant flow on some scrap material.
- Apply the caulk. Start in a corner and apply the caulk slowly along the joint in a steady stream.
- Smooth the caulk. For smoother results, use tools like UniBond Smoothing Tool on the sealant and repeat the process. This will help to spread the sealant evenly.
- Remove the painter’s tape. Wait for the caulk to set before you begin painting.
- Clean up. You can remove excess caulk with a cloth soaked in warm soapy water or acetone. If the caulk has already cured, try gently scraping it off with a tool.
