I have to caulk some baseboards, I've used my finger to spread the caulk in the past...Any other ideas?

Question

Looking for ideas to make caulk application smooth, less mess, etc. Thanks

Answer 1

I am a proponant of the "finger"....love to give caulk the finger. :o)

I found that if I keep a wet rag in one hand, and keep my finger moist, I can use my finger to shape the caulk better than the tools that have been suggested.

My suggestion is, try this method, wet finger, run finger on caulk, clean finger with wet rag, keeping finger moist and repeat until done. You'll see a differance from using a dry finger.

Answer 2

I usually try to use a caulking gun spreading as little as possible. Then I take my finger and smooth it out. Lastly, I take a wet rag to clean it up. If the baseboard is going against wallpaper or paneling, you have to take care to control the bead so that you can minimize the work required - the wet rag helps to do this. Of course you need a bucket of water to keep the rag rinsed out.

Answer 3

There is a tool that you can purchase at the hardware store - white plastic piece I do not know what it is called.

I just did some caulking around the kitchen yesterday - I think the trick is cutting the plastic at the top as small as possible and then just bead it - even if you decide to use your finger there is less

Answer 4

A little caulking tool from the hardware store. It has a triangle shaped head to get into the angles, has a rubber end on it so that it forms to the angle, leaves a nice clean line, and goes on very smooth. I just finished my tub about two weeks ago. Best $3 I ever spent.

Answer 5

I've done this same thing, however, I get my finger wet first - then the caulk does not stick to my finger.

Answer 6

There is a little plastic tool you can get at hardware stores made for spreading caulk. Go and ask a clerk...shouldn't cost too much.

Answer 7

a damp rag keeps the mess off your fingers. Keep a bucket handy to rinse the rag, otherwise you'll have more of a mess.

Answer 8

using your finger is good. The trick is to keep rubby alcohol in a small container and dip your finger in the alcohol each time you go to smooth out the putty. Keeps it from sticking to your fingers and balling up.

Answer 9

My father, a master carpenter, always uses the eraser end of a pencil.

Answer 10

Finger works best. Make sure you keep your finger wet.