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Below is a summary of the features
and benefits, as well as the most appropriate applications for the various types
of caulks.
Silicone Caulk
Silicone caulk is marketed to last
10-35 years, pending the manufacturer. It is flexible and has incredible
adhesion IF it is applied to a clean surface. It does not adhere to old silicone
caulk or dirty surfaces. It is ideal for filling seams up to ¼ inch in width and
it is good on almost all surfaces. However, it does not paint well, so it is
important to mach the appropriate silicone caulk color with the adjacent wall or
fixture paint. Silicone caulk is extremely hard to remove, including from your
hands. Consequently it is wise to have moist paper towels handy when applying
it. It is frequently used in bathrooms around tubs and shower units, as well in
some outdoor applications.
Latex Caulk
Latex caulk is great for interior
applications and filling in seams and cracks on trim work. It can support seams
up to ¼ inch in width.
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Latex caulk is usually paintable
and is available in many colors. Latex caulk has a lifetime of around 2-10
years. It is water soluble and is thus easy to clean up.
Acrylic Caulk
Acrylic caulk is ideal for
outdoor applications due to its flexibility and durability over extreme
temperature ranges. It also is frequently used in bathrooms, kitchens and
laundry rooms. It typically lasts 10 years and again can fill gaps up to ¼
inch in width. It is easy to work with and it can be easily cleaned up with
water. Also, there is no odor with acrylic caulk.
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Acrylic Latex Caulk
Acrylic latex caulk is used for many
interior home purposes, as well as some exterior applications. It is a flexible
caulk that is fast drying. Though it is available in many different colors it is
paintable when using latex paint. Because it is latex based it is easy to clean
up with water. It is ideal for caulking around wood trim and other dry area
applications. It can also be used around doors and windows and aluminum siding.
It typically lasts 10-15 years.
Butyl Caulk
Butyl caulk is ideal for exterior
home applications. It is ideal for brick, concrete block, stone, and concrete
applications. It is also used around aluminum siding, flashing and chimneys.
Butyl caulk is difficult and messy to work with. It is difficult to clean up,
and will require the use of paint thinner to remove. It is also slow drying and
has a high shrinkage factor. It typically lasts 8-10 years and is available in
many colors. Again, it can support crack widths up to ¼ inch.
Find a Pre-Screened Bathroom Remodeling
Contractor in Your Area
Acrylic Latex Silicone Caulk
Acrylic Latex Silicone caulk is idea for all weather and moisture applications.
It is easy to apply and can support gaps up to ¼ inch in width. It is frequently
used in exterior home applications such as on concrete, brick and masonry, wood
and metal. Inside the home, it is used in bathrooms, kitchens and laundry
areas. It is mold and mildew resistant, however it does not take paint well. It
typically lasts 10-25 years.
For help on
remodeling your bathroom, see HomeAdditionPlus.com’s
Bathroom Remodeling Bid Sheet
.
The
Bathroom Remodeling Bid Sheet
will
help ensure that your bathroom remodeling project goes smoothly and you
get the finished bathroom you are looking for. In addition, it will help
to ensure that your remodeled bathroom will be accomplished on time and on budget.
How to Finance your
New Home Project - LendingTree's
Home Equity Loans
can help provide funds for your new home improvement project if
financing is required.
Additional Bathroom Design and Remodeling Resources
Bathroom Faucets, Vanities and Accessories from Amazon.com
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