FAQ: Pro Painter Answers About Caulks & Sealants

Bead Size: How thick do I apply it?

The best rule of thumb is to use your finger to wipe down a caulk bead. Do NOT use a rag as it will wipe away too much caulk and lead to cracking. You don't need to use more caulk, just don't wipe away the product you have already used! Remember to moisten your finger before tooling the caulk. The moisture allows for a smoother finish.

Help with Drying Time

Our specially formulated caulks offer standard, faster, and slower dry time options. We have a caulk that meets your job needs ranging from the cool Northeast, to the humid Southeast, to the dry Southwest, and the moist Northwest. We provide solutions to keep you painting through all climates and conditions.

Know when to stop!

If it looks good, walk away! Trying to create the perfect bead is a good way to mess up an otherwise acceptable job.

Preventing after flow

Remember to immediately release the trigger on the caulking gun each time you complete a bead. This helps to reduce the amount of caulk that weeps from the tip.

Sealing Crown Molding

Decorative molding demands the best caulks that have great adhesion and flexibility. Crown molding expands and contracts due to the temperature differences in rooms. Temperatures can differ up to 15 degrees from floor to ceiling, and crown molding must endure the greatest temperature movement. Use only high quality elastomeric caulks, such as Gardner® A7 Series - C920 "Grade" for this application.

The information on this site is provided as a free service. It is based on common conditions and may not apply to your specific situation. Please contact a Gardner representative with specific questions or comments. 

The information on this site is provided as a free service. It is based on common conditions and may not apply to your specific situation. Please contact a Gardner representative with specific questions or comments.