When you think of caulking, you might picture sealing up cracks in your bathtub or around your windows. However, did you know that caulking can also be used on Drywall corners?
Caulking Drywall corners is generally considered one of the best ways to get smooth, finished corners. It also helps to protect against cracks and create a seal between the drywall and the wall surface, preventing moisture and air from passing through. Ideally, you would want to caulk with high-quality acrylic latex caulk.
Drywall corners often have small gaps that can collect dust and dirt and be difficult to clean. Caulking the corners is a very good solution and will also give them a neater appearance and make them easier to keep clean. However, this is not the only advantage you get by caulking Drywall corners.
Can You And Why Should You Caulk Drywall Corners?
Yes, you can caulk drywall corners. The good thing about caulking corners is that the surface will remain intact for a very long time and will not crack. Additionally, it helps to create a seal between the drywall and the wall surface, preventing moisture and air from passing through.
While it is possible to caulk drywall corners by hand, many homeowners prefer to use a caulking gun. This tool allows for a more even application of caulk, and it can help to speed up the overall process.
If you plan to caulk drywall corners, make sure you use Hugh quality caulking, such as high-quality acrylic latex caulk.
How To Caulk Drywall Corners?
Caulking drywall corners is easy, but you will have to be methodical about it. Here are the steps to take.
Step 1 – Clean The Wall
The first thing to do is to clean the wall; the last thing you want is to appear caulk on a dirty surface. Wipe the wall with a dry piece of cloth to remove dust or particles. Then wash with an all-purpose cleaner to remove dirt and grease. Alcohol will also work to remove stubborn stains from drywall corners.
Step 2 – Prime The Corner
After cleaning the surface, prime it with a home improvement primer. Simply brush the prime over the surface using a brush. This will make the caulk stick to the surface when you apply it.
Step 3 – Tape The Crack
The next step will be to tape the crack above the spot you wish to caulk. You can use painter’s tape or a sticky plastic masking. Also, place another tape strip below the crack. Doing this will prevent the caulk from smearing unwanted areas. The tape also reduces messiness.
Step 4 – Cut The Caulk Tube Tip
Use a pair of scissors or a sharp kitchen knife to cut the tip of the caulk tube. Be mindful of how you cut it. Hold the tube steady and cut the tip in such a way to make it flow evenly. Also, endeavor to keep the hole small as you don’t want a wide hole that will release more caulk than necessary. A 0.6 cm width is good enough.
Step 5 – Pierce The Tube
After cutting the tip, pierce the tube seal with a long nail or sharp object. The attached wire can do the piercing if you have a caulk gun. Push it into the hole and apply pressure until you feel the seal give way. Don’t forget to keep the hole small to prevent excess discharge.
Step 6 – Load The Caulk Gun
Now, load the caulk gun with the caulk. After loading, seal the compartment and press the trigger by pulling the gun plunger inside the chamber. But before doing so, ensure that the nozzle faces the drywall corner at close range. When you apply pressure, the caulk will start to flow out from the nozzle.
Step 7 – Start Caulking
Start by caulking from top to bottom of the drywall corner. If the corner is horizontal, start from left to right and keep your hand steady. As you caulk the corners, squeeze the trigger carefully but firmly to release just enough caulk to cover the corners and cracks. Doing this will help you avoid making a mess of a particular area.
If you encounter any areas with old caulk, don’t apply a fresh layer of caulk. Use a scraper to remove the old one before applying a fresh caulk in its place.
Step 8 – Smoothen Caulk
After caulking any area, dip your finger into water and smoothen the surface. Run your finger through the caulk lines. This will push the caulk further in and make it fit.
Note: It takes about an hour for freshly applied caulk to harden, so avoid working around the spot for a little while. Watch this video below for a visual representation of how to apply caulk to drywall corners.
How Long Does Caulk Drywall Corners Last?
Caulk in drywall can last for up to five years before it begins to come off. The length of time it lasts depends on several factors, such as the humidity, causing the drywall to shrink or expand, thus making the caulk brittle in the process. The quality and the thickness of the caulk used.
FAQs:
Can You Caulk Drywall Corners Before Painting?
Yes, you can caulk drywall corners before painting but make sure the caulk is dry before you apply the paint. Caulking cracks and depressions in corners before you paint will give your drywall an even surface.
Do You Have To Tape Drywall Corners?
It is advisable to tape drywall corners with tape. Exposed corners are vulnerable to fire and the weather. Taping corners is a good idea and aligns with the building codes of many localities.
Can You Use Caulking Instead Of Drywall Mud?
Nothing is stopping you from using caulk in place of drywall mud, but the only downside to this practice is that you will be unable to sand it. Caulks are ideal for small holes, not large ones. For large holes, drywall, the necessary mud should be the material of choice.