Water-Based Caulk- Generally referred to as latex caulks and sealants, water-based caulks are the easiest to work with because they apply easily, are paintable, have little odor and clean up with water.
- Ideal curing conditions are warm (above 40 degrees), dry weather.
- Effective for filling gaps in baseboard and trim, as well as for caulking around interior window and door frames.
- Generally available in cartridges ranging from 10-12 oz. as well as convenient squeeze tubes ranging from 4 oz. to 6 oz.
- Vinyl Latex Caulk usually effective for five years and is most effective on small cracks in baseboards and little gaps around windows. Vinyl latex is non-flammable and paintable but not very flexible. It hardens over time.
- Acrylic Latex Caulk is a general-purpose caulk—more flexible than vinyl latex caulks. It is water-based, easy to apply, non-flammable and cleans with water. It adheres to most surfaces—best on wood and masonry—and it can be painted shortly after application. It is available in pigments that allow it to match many surfaces. It remains effective for 10 to 15 years. However, it is not recommended for an area that is subject to excessive water collection. It is flexible and it maintains that flexibility over time. It should not be applied in temperatures of less than 40° F.
- Tub and Tile Caulk is a specialty performance caulk with added mildewcide to protect against mildew growth in the areas prone to moisture (kitchens, bathrooms). Some tub and tile caulks are more flexible and crack-resistant. Many formulations include adhesives that combine a sealant and adhesive in one. Like other latex caulks, they apply easily, are non-flammable, clean up with water, and are paintable and mildew resistant. They are available in a variety of colors.
Siliconized Acrylic Caulk
- Combines silicone with acrylic latex formulas for improved water resistance.
- This medium-performance, water-based caulk can withstand greater movement than acrylic latex.
- Can be used for interior or exterior with good adhesion, even to glass and ceramic tile.
- It also comes in a variety of colors as well as clear formulas.
- It applies easily (though best applied in temperatures above 40° F), is non-flammable, paintable, mildew-resistant and cleans with water.
- It endures moderate temperature changes, with a life expectancy of about 25-35 years.
Silicone Caulk
- Is good for use around bathtubs and sinks because it resists mold and mildew.
- It is water resistant and provides excellent adhesion to smooth surfaces, such as metal, glass and tile, but it does not adhere to masonry.
- Remains flexible after curing and is not affected by UV radiation.
- Paint will also not stick to most silicones and it is difficult to apply.
- Does not adhere well to wood.
- Non toxic.
- Can be applied at nearly any temperature
- Must be cleaned up with solvents
Polyurethane Foam
- Used for a variety of jobs, most often around electrical outputs, pipe penetrations and large voids or openings where the elements can infiltrate a structure.
- It expands to fill gaps, holes and voids and is good for insulation purposes.
- It is easy to apply, cures quickly, is paintable and offers good adhesion.
- Available in different expansion rate formulas.
Butyl Rubber Sealants
- Are solvent-based, with a life expectancy of two to 10 years.
- Butyl rubber is good for sealing out water in lap joints, such as gutters. It is also a good choice for metals and masonry, as well as outside for chimneys.
- Probably the best waterproofing sealant for below-grade applications, such as foundations.
- Stringy, difficult to apply and slow curing, they are most efficient when applied to openings between similar surfaces.
- Not recommended for openings wider or deeper than 1/4" or in 90° corners.
- These sealants offer low to moderate movement capabilities.
Synthetic Rubber Caulk
- A relative newcomer to the caulk category, synthetic rubber caulk is perhaps the most flexible product on the market.
- Cures clear and is ideal for exterior joints that typically expand and contract.
- Can be applied in adverse weather conditions (wet and cold).
- Stretches easily without breaking and recovers easily.
- <Great for use on roofs, wood siding and joints that frequently show movement.
- Can be painted with latex paint.
- Due to higher VOC content, can’t be used indoors in some parts of the country, although manufacturers have introduced low VOC formulations to the marketplace.
Modified Silicone Polymers
- Delivers excellent performance on vinyl, fiber cement, aluminum and wood siding.
- Combines the best characteristics of polyurethane, silicone and water-based products, offering permanent flexibility.
- Great for applying in wet weather and low temperature applications for caulking around exterior windows, doors and vents.
- Can be painted with latex paint.
Caulk Gun
- Tool that applies caulk from cartridges to work area.
- Ratchet Guns are less expensive, but are more difficult to use. To stop caulk flow on the ratchet gun, the user must turn the piston so the ratchet disengages.
- Smooth Rod Guns are more expensive, but are easier to use. With a smooth rod gun, the user simply disengages a quick-release thumb plate to stop the flow of caulk. Drip-free smooth rod caulking guns allow the piston to back up slightly after each squeeze so the user does not have to turn the piston or depress a lever to stop the flow of caulk.
- Some models use an automatic vacuum action to draw any unused caulk back into the nose of the tube.
- Power Guns that operate with a rechargeable battery pack are becoming popular with pros and serious d-i-yers
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