Types of Caulk for Windows, Doors, Showers, Bathtubs and Masonry

Below is a summary of the features and benefits, as well as the most appropriate applications for the various types of caulks.

Silicone Caulk Types

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 Types 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. 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 Types

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.

Acrylic Latex Caulk Types 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.

Watch this video on how to caulk windows.

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 Types

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.

Acrylic Latex Silicone Caulk Types

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.