Modesto Home Inspection - How to Caulk

 Everyone thinks caulking is easy. Just squeeze the trigger and go, right?

Actually, there are a few things people do consistantly wrong. Most people are under the impression that pulling while squeezing is the only way, but considering the surface you're caulking there is a better way. Pushing your caulking gun while squeezing provides a much better bead because the shape of the tube creates a smooth bead all by itself, without having to run your finger down the joint. I think everyone has ran out of "clean fingers" a time or two when caulking. 

 *drawn by Andy E. Lee using corelDraw

 Notice the small triangular area in the bottom left of the picture. That is the result of a perfect glazing bead. This practice is best for glass or smooth tile surfaces. It takes some practice to get used to but the next time you find yourself with a caulking gun and some time, try pushing instead of pulling. Window glazing should be checked periodically for cracking. During a Modesto home inspection, I make it a point to check these area's and inform my clients how to do the repairs themselves.