Color Caulking Tips

person caulking along a bathrub

When most people read about caulking or ask for advice, they visualize a white or beige paste being applied to a wall or bathroom tile. However, there are many different types of caulking available to be used in the home, and one of the features of caulk is its adaptability. Caulking can be used throughout the home, and if the homeowner has a motif in a room that needs caulking, they should consider purchasing colored caulk to get as close of a color match as possible. If you are planning to do this, there are a few things that you should consider before purchasing your colored caulk.

1. Do You Need to Color Match?

paint samples and color wheel

The first thing you should consider is whether you need to match your caulk. Caulking is often performed in places where a discrete layer of caulk would not be noticed, even by the most observant guest. If you are thinking of applying caulk to the underside of windows, to the edges of door frames, or behind radiators, then you may well be better off purchasing a white or beige caulk and spending the saved money on other parts of the room. However, if the caulking needs to be done along the visible parts of the room, say over a fireplace, you should try to get a color match if you are anxious to have your room decor look uniform.

2. Finding the Available Colors

There are plenty of places where you can look for caulking pastes. Your local home improvement store will have a selection, and may have a range of colors. However, the best place to find great colored caulks is online. Online stores often offer a wider range of colors than stores, as they can reach many more clients. So if you are looking for a particular color and can't find it in your local hardware store, try an internet website. You may also be able to find advice and guidance on the type of caulk you want.

3. Using the Color in Your Home

caulking a door frame

The next step is applying the color to your room. When using a colored caulk, don't apply too much at once, as this can damage the effect of the color match. You may consider using a trowel or putty knife to lay a small layer of caulk over the edge of the hole, filling it up gradually rather than putting in a large piece and having to wipe excess away. This not only preserves the color scheme of the room, it also saves you the expense of having to purchase another tube of caulk next time you need one.

4. Caulk and Color Schemes

If you want to apply caulk before painting a room, you can save money by purchasing a normal color caulk and adding a layer of paint over the top once the paste has dried. If the room has only recently been painted you may consider other alternatives, such as dying your caulk before applying it. These can be less expensive than colored caulk, but the effect will not be as good.