Caulking is one of those home improvement tasks that most people like to take up as a DIY project. While caulking is fairly simple and does not require much expertise, flawless caulk application is trickier than most of us like to imagine. You may be able to get the job done but the silicone seal is likely to be messy and uneven. Furthermore, conventional caulking is unlikely to stay in place for a long time as it is not equipped to absorb movement. This is why it is common to see new caulking chipping away in just a few days after application.
Fortunately, there’s a simple solution to all these problems – caulk tape. It is a quick and easy alternative for flawless caulking. The flexible vinyl edge trim offers a professional finishing in just a few minutes.
Scroll down to learn more about caulking that will get you perfect results every time.
How to Use Caulk Tape
The best part about using caulk tape is that it is extremely easy and convenient to use. All you have to do is measure the area, cut the caulk tape accordingly, and apply it!
You can use a pair of scissors or an Exacto knife to cut the tape. To apply caulk, you will have to remove the tape from the backside and stick it over the cracked areas. In just a few simple steps, you will have a professional finished look. With caulk tape, you can finally forget about messy, uneven caulk that’s all over the place. Furthermore, you can apply it without using any special tools.
Caulk Application Tips and Tricks
If you know how to stick a sticker, you are good to use a tape caulk. However, it is best to follow these caulk application tips and tricks for a flawless finish.
Choose the Right Caulk
Choosing the caulk is the first and one of the most important steps of amazing caulk application. Start by evaluating your project. You will have to take into account things like the kind and color of caulk. Choose good quality caulk tape of the right width. Also, keep the color of the surrounding area in mind to add to the aesthetic appeal of the caulking.
Clean the Surface
For a smooth and even application, start by cleaning the surface, especially if you are applying caulk over previously sealed areas. You can use a retractable razor to remove the old caulk from adjoining surfaces. Scrape the surface to make it as smooth as possible. Now, use a vacuum to remove any dust and debris in the gaps.
Meet in the Middle on Long Runs
So, you have a long surface to run and are likely to stop in the middle? You can start at where you left off; however, for a better finish, it is advisable to meet in the middle. In other words, start with the corners. This will make sure you get a stunning finishing and perfectly sealed corners.
Disguise Caulk
Disguised caulk that seems to be part of the surface always looks better. One way is to choose colored caulk that matches the color of the surfaces. The other way is to paint over the caulk. Make sure you get caulk paintable or customizable caulk.
Benefits of Using Caulk Tape
Caulk tape is a safer, better, and more convenient alternative to using other types of caulk, including silicones, butyl rubber, and latex. Let’s take a look at some benefits of using caulk tape.
Highly Versatile
Caulk tape is highly versatile in its application, which means you can use it all around the house. You can use it around doors and windows or to cover sloppy paint jobs in the corner or ceiling. It can also be used to keep moisture out of gaps and cracks, prevent mold and mildew, and keep bugs and critters from getting inside the house. Furthermore, it can be used around dry areas like walls and ceilings as well as wet areas like bathtub or sink.
A Quick Solution
Caulk tape offers a quick solution to all your caulking needs. While caulking neatly with a caulk tube and gun often takes a considerable amount of time off your busy schedule, with caulk tape, you can have the perfect finishing in just a few minutes. Keep in mind that while it is a quick and easy solution, it is still more durable than other options.
Premium Quality
Using caulk tape guarantees long-lasting, premium quality caulking. However, you will have to make sure that you get only the best quality caulk tape. It is best to look for caulk tape that offers pliable adhesives, which can expand and contract with movement.
Aesthetic Appeal
Caulk tape offers flawless finishing, which is often hard to attain with ordinary caulking. Whether you use it to fix cracks in a wall or cover sloppy painting on the wall, you can rest assured that you will end up with a professional-looking finishing. Furthermore, the flexible vinyl edge trim adds to the high aesthetic appeal of tape caulking.
Color Options
Taking about aesthetic appeal, perhaps one of the best things about caulk tape is that it comes in a variety of different options. You can pick it in the color of your choice from the colors available or get white caulk tape and paint it with any color you want.
Healthier Option
Ordinary caulk gives off toxic fumes during and after application. On the other hand, caulk tapes is a healthier option that allows you o get the job done without putting yourself and your family at health risks. Apart from that, caulk tape is mold and mildew resistant, which makes it a healthier option.
Switch to the better, healthier, and more economical caulking option – tape caulk. Follow these caulk application tips & tricks to apply caulk like a pro. You will end up with a nice, smooth, and aesthetically appealing surface that you’ll be proud of!
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Author Bio:
Greg Amundson is the founder and creator of InstaTrim & have been working in the home construction industry for 30+ years and have always had a passion to make DIYers’ life easier by developing products like brown caulk tape, white caulk tape, grey PVC corner trim, etc.