Most homeowners know about caulking, but are unaware of exactly how many applications it can be used on. Caulk can be used for many household solutions. Here are just some of the problems you can solve with caulk.
”Care and diligence bring luck.” - Thomas Fuller
Windows
Of course one of the main reasons people buy caulking is for window application. Whether you do it yourself or have a professional handle it, caulk is a fine way to make sure that all your glass panels are properly sealed and saving you money. Plus it’s cheaper than installing new windows and can preserve the model you already have in your home. Other benefits of silicone caulk include the following:
- Stopping drafts
- Stopping humidity damage
- Stopping mold
- Stopping mildew
- Reducing energy costs
- Keeping the home warm
- Keeping the home cool
- Decreasing your carbon footprint
- Adding years to the lifespan of your windows
- Reinforcing the panes
Tile Touch-Up
Like most homes in America, your kitchen and bathroom probably have tile. Tile is great for combating against moisture, and caulk is great for keeping tile reinforced. Now most homes use grout to accomplish this, but for the in-between spaces (i.e. the floor and your bathtub) where the grout doesn’t quite touch, caulk is a standard alternative. Here’s an example of when you’ll want to use 100% silicone caulk. This will prevent any moisture damage from accumulating in your household.
Caulking in your kitchen and bathroom may seem easy, but it’s best to let a professional handle the job unless you have experience.
Woodworking
Unfortunately a natural part of owning a home made of wood is the very natural act of that wood expanding and contracting a little everyday. Over a long enough timeline, wood will start to pry itself away from its joints. Luckily, this can be solved with different kinds of caulking. You can choose between different silicone caulk colors that can closely match the tone of your hardwood. Or at the very least, fool the untrained eye.
However, for bigger cracks or dents in wood, get a free estimate from a professional carpenter to get your house fixed up properly.
Some projects that require caulk also require a professional hand. But did you know that prices vary based on where you live? For example, in Billings, MT it can cost an average of $439 while in Allentown, PA, it can cost an average of $533. Want to get a more accurate estimate for free? Get in touch with a homeyou pro near you!
Pest Preventative
As the expression goes, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” This means that when it comes to the exterior of your home, the best thing you can do is to plug up any potential “holes” or gaps in your home. This will make it much harder for pests to invade and destroy your home.
Insects and rodents are always looking for ways into your home, so it’s usually best to stop them before they can even enter. On the plus side, silicone caulk drying time is fast, and can be painted over afterward.
Seal
Onto the question of caulk vs sealant. To make a long story short, caulk is great for rigid cracks between hard materials. Stucco, wood, concrete, and cement can all benefit from having an insulating layer of caulk around the gaps. However, sealants are best for flexible or rubbery materials that require insulation. So if you’re unsure of which one you need, ask a pro.
Painting Solutions
Before you have your home painted, be sure to cover up and small holes or gaps around the area with a quick injection of clear silicone caulk. This is a quick solution that will keep the coat of paint consistent and looking great. Moreover, the combined effort of caulk and paint will further protect against any damages.
Need to have some caulking done professionally? Get in touch with a pro today for a free estimate!
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