Everything you need to know about…Caulk and Sealant

Decorators’ caulk is used to seal gaps around windows, doors, skirting boards and ceiling coving – so does that make it the same as sealant? What’s the difference and what can this multi-purpose filler not be used for?

What is Decorators Caulk?

Caulk like the fast-drying Everflex 125 One Hour Caulk can quickly and easily fill gaps and cracks on walls before painting them. It’s an acrylic-based flexible filler which is usually applied using a caulking gun and smoothed-off using a sealant or caulking tool – or even a wet finger! Once in place, caulk provides a strong, long-lasting seal and can be papered or painted over without the need for sanding. It’s a must-have staple for any DIY-er or tradesperson, making the final preparation of hundreds of projects quicker and easier.

What do you need to know?

• 1. Caulk comes in a variety of colours.
• 2. If you aren’t in a rush, allow your caulk to dry for as long as you can before painting over the top to ensure it lasts as long as possible. It will also allow you to see any dips or cracks in the dried caulk and make it perfect before applying your final finish.
• 3. Even the best quality caulk, with the finest trade application, can eventually dry out and crack. However, it is easy to repair as, unlike sealant, the old caulk does not need to be removed first. Fresh caulk can simply be smoothed over the top as you would when filling any other gap.

What is Sealant?

Caulk and Sealant are often used interchangeably but they are not the same. Decorators’ Caulk is flexible when it is dry, but not as flexible as silicone sealant. Silicone sealant, like Everbuild Forever Clear Silicone Sealant, is resistant to mould, moisture, and extreme weather, making it extremely versatile all around the home. It also means that sealant is suitable for places where caulk is not useful, such as areas that are more susceptible to water like bathrooms and kitchens; and places where a lot of expansion or contraction can take place, such as around windows and doors.

Like Caulk, Sealant is usually applied using a gun and smoothed off using a sealant tool.

What do you need to know?

• 1. Silicone sealant is available in a variety of colours, most usually seen in white and transparent options.
• 2. Many silicone sealants purport that they last up to 20 years! However, around showers and sanitary ware, you may wish to replace the seal more frequently. Unlike caulk, it is essential to remove all old sealant before applying a new coat.
• 3. You cannot paint over silicone sealant. Unlike caulk, it is not designed to be applied under paint or paper.

See our full range of sealants here.