Caulking and sealant are terms that are often used interchangeably, but they can have different meanings, the topic is a little confusing, let’s take a look at the difference between the two.
Caulking, traditionally called “caulk”, is a material used to seal joints or seams against leakage in various substrates. The term caulking is often used for sealants that are used in a wide range of aesthetic and maintenance applications.
Sealant is typically a higher-performance product with superior flexibility and adhesion. Sealants are typically more resistant to harsh environmental conditions and are used in a variety of applications in construction and building renewal where joints or gaps need to be sealed against water or air. Sealants often remain flexible over time, which allows them to maintain their sealing properties as connected substrates expand and contract.
Different types of caulking and sealants
Latex Caulking
Latex Caulking is water-based and generally easy to apply and clean up. It is also flexible and can be painted over, which makes it ideal for indoor applications or areas that are not exposed to harsh weather conditions like cracks in drywall or gaps at finish carpentry. Latex caulking is also less expensive than urethane caulking, but is not be as durable.
Urethane Caulking
Urethane Caulking is a high-performance sealant that is highly resistant to weather, temperature, and UV exposure, making it ideal for exterior applications. It also adheres well to most construction materials including wood, concrete, metal, and more. Urethane caulking is more durable and lasts longer than latex caulking.
Urethane caulking is used for concrete sealing, especially for filling gaps, joints, and cracks in concrete surfaces. However, it’s generally more difficult to apply and clean up, and it’s more expensive.
A note on silicone: Silicone and latex caulking are often confused however, each is used for different applications. Silicone is extremely water resistant and adhesive therefore it is particularly well suited as a sealant for wet areas like kitchens, bathrooms and some exterior joints. It is important to note that silicone is not paintable and therefore not a good choice on any substrates that require painting
Application for Latex Caulking
Interior Projects
Given its ease of application and cleanup, latex caulking is commonly used for indoor projects. This includes sealing around baseboards, crown molding, windows and doors inside your home.
Bathrooms and Kitchens
It’s often used around sinks, bathtubs, and showers because many varieties of latex caulk are mold and mildew resistant.
Exterior Projects
Typically latex caulking is used to seal mitre joints and cut joints on exterior wood trim mostly for aesthetic reasons.
Elastomeric Caulking
Wide Gaps or Cracks
Elastomeric caulk is highly flexible and can stretch or compress without breaking. This makes it great for filling large gaps or cracks that might expand or contract due to temperature changes or movement.
Applications for Urethane Caulking
Exterior urethane caulking is typically used when a durable and highly weather-resistant seal is required. It’s perfect for outdoor applications because of its ability to withstand different environmental conditions. Here are a few specific scenarios where it might be used.
Exterior Projects
Because of its excellent durability and resistance to weather and temperature fluctuations, urethane caulking is typically used for exterior applications such as sealing around exterior window and door frames. Urethane caulking is routinely used to seal expansion and cold joints in concrete and stucco. Sometimes it is also referred to as Concrete crack sealer or Stucco crack sealer.
High-Traffic Areas
Due to its durability and flexibility, urethane sealant is often used in areas that face heavy use or movement, such as joints in sidewalks, driveways, or large floor tiles.
How to Apply Sealants and Caulking
Both products are applied or “tooled” with the same tools:
Caulking Gun and Smoother
A caulking gun is used for both materials, the sealant cartridge or sausages fits in a “gun” designed specifically for sealant work. For large industrial or commercial projects, a “sausage gun” and /or hydraulic gun can be used to speed the process. For tooling or smoothing out the sealant after application, a spatulas or smoother is required.
Cleaning Materials
Cleanup for both material types is relatively easy. For latex caulking, water and a rag are sufficient for cleanup. For urethane caulk, mineral spirits or a similar solvent is needed.
If you have any questions or would like to learn more, please connect with us. Whether your renewal projects requires sealant or substrate repair, membrane work or coating system repair and upgrading, WCP can help. Contact us at 604.420.5552 or [email protected]
