Caulking kitchen sinks—and caulking bathroom sinks, for that matter—is probably one of the easier DIY projects you will undertake. Read on to find out how to caulk around sink faucets.
It’s a simple step but it certainly makes a big difference. When you create a seal around kitchen sinks and fixtures like faucets, you help prevent contaminants from getting between countertops and hardware, thus preserving your sinks and fixtures and giving them a neat and easy-to-clean finish.
When caulking kitchen sinks, the right tools make all the difference. Learn our pro tips for a flawless finish that will make your sink shine.
When caulking kitchen sinks and sealing fixtures, you need to create a flexible, waterproof seal between joints and other gaps. That means you need to look for an appropriate product.
If your sink has already been caulked but the sealant is starting to look a bit rough around the edges, simply apply a new layer of a product for renewal on the existing silicone to create a durable seal. If you need to create a new seal, products like Loctite Polyseamseal Tub & Tile Adhesive Caulk will help you finish your project easily.
You’ll be working with a product that is both an adhesive and a sealant, meaning your surfaces must be clean and dry. As always, stay safe by wearing safety glasses and gloves and by washing your hands when you’re finished. The manufacturer’s instructions will contain more relevant information about safety and storage.
- Remove old caulk. Use a utility knife to cut through old caulk and pull it off the rim. You do not need to remove old sealant when using a product for renewal; simply clean existing caulk with a damp cloth (and perhaps mold cleaner).
- Clean the rim. Use rubbing alcohol or another suitable solvent to remove residue and make sure the new surface can accept the caulk. Let it dry completely.
Caulking kitchen sinks doesn't have to be daunting. With the right products and techniques, you can achieve professional results
- Prepare your caulk. Place your product tube in a caulk gun and cut the nozzle to the right size for your seam. Tubes which can be squeezed by hand are sometimes available as alternatives to caulk guns.
- Apply your caulk. Apply the product to your seam with a steady pressure to seal around the sink. Smooth application prevents mildew from forming as caulk ages.
- Smooth it out. For a watertight seal and neat finish, wet your index finger and smooth the caulk against the rim and counter.
- Let it dry. Let the product dry as indicated in the product instructions before exposing it to water.
- Clean up your project area and tools. Clean the caulk tube applicator using a damp cloth and close the cap when finished. Carefully cut away excess cured sealant with a sharp-edged tool.