Caulking has many uses and can also refer to the application of flexible sealing compounds to close up gaps in buildings and other structures against water, air, dust, insects, or as a component in firestopping. In the tunnelling industry, caulking refers to the sealing of joints in segmental precast concrete tunnels, commonly by using concrete.
Although not a high-tech operation, caulking can be tricky. The instructions on the compound cartridge should be followed. The following are a few important tips to provide your client:
Common tools are a pointing tool, shaped wood, wet finger or a spoon. Detergent should not be added to the moisture for tooling, since it may drip onto the bond surface, causing a loss of adhesion. For neat work, the worker may apply painter’s masking tape beforehand, taping off the areas on each side of the joint to catch any surplus, and remove the tape again before the tooling time has expired.
To prevent three-sided adhesion or to avoid sagging in wide, deep joints, a backer rod made of plastic foam can be pressed into the gap before caulking.
After removing old caulking ensure joint is clean and debris free. Allow the cleaned joint to dry for a day or more unless the product is approved for wet applications. Press an open-cell foam backer rod into joints wider than 1/4 inch (6 mm) or deeper than 1/2 inch (12 mm) so the joint is about half as deep as it is wide. Never fill a deep joint. Doing so wastes caulk and makes a good, permanent bond less likely.
Caulking compounds can also be found in aerosol cans, squeeze tubes, and ropes for small jobs or special applications. Water-based caulk can be cleaned with water, while solvent-based compounds require a solvent for cleanup. Caulking compounds also vary in strength, properties, and prices.
Silicone caulk is the type of caulk that people tend to be most familiar with. It is usually clear in color and has a rubbery, flexible texture when dry. For the past 20 years or so, the majority of caulks on the market have been made out of silicone. Because of its durability and effectiveness on a wide variety of surfaces, silicone continues to be a popular choice today. It is especially useful on non-porous surfaces, including metal and plastic. And because it stays flexible after it is dry, silicone caulk rarely breaks or cracks as a result of extreme temperatures or rapid temperature changes. This makes it perfect for filling gaps around windows and doors.
During every home inspection in Barrie, Alliston or Orillia we inspect all exterior caulking to ensure there are no cracks or missing caulking.
