Caring for Your Home

Main Topic Index » Topics A through D

Caulking (Interior and Exterior)

Time and weather will shrink and dry caulking so that it no longer provides a good seal. As routine maintenance, check the caulking and make needed repairs. Caulking compounds and dispenser guns are available at hardware stores. Read the manufacturer's instructions carefully to be certain that you select an appropriate caulk for the intended purpose.

Colored caulking is available where larger selections are provided. As with any colored material, dye lots can vary.

Latex caulking is appropriate for an area that requires painting, such as along the stair stringer or where wood trim meets the wall.

Caulking that contains silicone will not accept paint; it works best where water is present, for example, where tub meets tile or a sink meets a countertop.

During the orientation we confirm that appropriate areas are adequately caulked.

See also Countertops, Expansion and Contraction, Stairs, and Wood Trim.