Caulking Guide

STEP 1

Cut a neat, narrow hole in the nozzle
Avoid the most common caulking mistake: Cutting the nozzle too far back from the tip. That makes the hole in the nozzle too large and allows too much caulk to gush out quickly, creating a mess.
Some professionals match the hole size to the size of the gap they’re filling. But a hole that’s smaller than the gap gives you more control. You can move quickly where the gap is narrow and slow down to feed more caulk into larger gaps. Here are a couple of nozzle-cutting pointers:

• Cut the nozzle at a 45° angle close to the tip. For most jobs, the hole you create should be no more than 3mm across. Remember, you can always enlarge the hole if you need to, but you can’t make it smaller.

• The cut has to be neat. If you leave any jagged edges they will create furrows in the caulk bead. For a neat slice, use a sharp utility knife and support the nozzle ona scrap of wood as you cut.

STEP 2

Lay an even bead
The goal here is consistency. You want an even bead that doesn’t change much in size or shape as it runs around the edge of the tub.

• For a smooth bead, start at one end and finish at the other – no pit stops in between, not even at corners if you can help it. Stopping and starting will result in a bumpy bead.

• You want caulk to flow out of the nozzle at an even rate, so pull the trigger slowly and steadily When the trigger reaches the end of its stroke, release it quickly and begin pulling again instantly. The pressure in the tube will keep the flow going during the split-second interruption.

• No matter how hard you try for an even flow, you’ll get some variation. To minimise this, you have to move faster when the caulk gushes out,and slower when it ebbs.

• The tip of the nozzle shapes the bead. If you twist the gun or adjust its angle as you go, the bead will change shape. Once you find the right angle, move along without twisting or shifting the gun – unless you have to change the angle to go around a corner or obstruction.

• Caulk may continue to flow slowly out of the tube even after you release pressure, so lift the gun as soon as you get to the end of the line.

• Ease back the trigger; vary your speed; watch the angle of the gun. It all takes concentration and a steady hand. So before you apply any caulk, make a dry run around the tub. But don’t let anyone see you—practice caulking looks even dumber than it sounds.

TIP: If the vertical corner seams of your tiled tub surround need sealing, do them first and let the caulk harden before continuing. That way, you won’t mess them up as you work your way around the tub.