Forgot your caulk gun? We’ll explain how to use caulk without a gun, what you need to pull off a simple application and why a caulking gun is a sensible investment.
Without question, caulk guns are an extremely helpful tool for every type of caulking job. Using such a caulk gun makes the work faster, neater and more precise. The gun not only helps simplify and speed up the job, it also reduces waste by squeezing every last drop of caulk from the tube.
However, if you find yourself faced with a caulking job, and don’t have a caulk gun, not all is lost. It is possible to caulk without a gun if you’re in a pinch. Nevertheless, we would not recommend it as it increases the risk of making a mess.
If you are still determined to caulk without a gun, consider the caulk formulation and intended use of the product before deciding if it’s worth it to run out for a caulk gun.
Here are some factors to consider before attempting this task by hand.
Material matters when it comes to caulking. Is the caulk you’re working with based on silicone or latex? Silicone, which is typically seen in bathrooms and kitchens, has a high tack, making it difficult to clean up if you stray outside the intended area which is very likely to happen without a caulk gun. To help control the application, tape the borders with painters’ tape to ensure you stay within the intended area.
Latex is a more forgiving material that’s easier to wipe off after freehand application but still far from ideal. If you caulk outside the lines, use a damp soapy cloth to wipe away the excess mess.
What type of area are you working on? If you’re caulking joints, your bead line will be visible and needs to be neat. If you’re using construction adhesive caulk to adhere unseen surfaces, the work won’t be visible and is therefore more forgiving.
Before diving in gather these helpful tools for the best possible application without a caulking gun:
caulk
straight razor or scissors
painters’ tape (for bordering joints)
disposable gloves
warm soapy water
cloth
smoothing tool
wooden paint stirrer (for added help pushing the caulk out of the tube)
Now that you’ve gathered your materials, here’s how to use caulk without a gun.
- If applying caulk as joint sealant: Tape both sides of the surface, providing a guide path for your bead line.
- Cut the applicator at a 45° angle, to the desired bead size.
- To open caulk without a gun: Slice the tip off of the cartridge with a razor knife and apply the applicator. If the applicator is molded to the cartridge, puncture it open.
- Grip the tube firmly both at the nose and the end of the caulk tube.
- Squeeze the end of the tube firmly to dispense the caulk bead. Apply an even amount of pressure to the tube while moving along the joint line. If helpful, use a wooden paint stirrer or stick to help push the caulk from the tube.
- After the joint is sealed, smooth the bead line with a wet gloved finger or smoothing tool.
- Carefully remove the painters’ tape to reveal the sealed joint.
If squeezing the tube isn’t working out, slice the end of the tube off (opposite the applicator), and use a gloved finger to scrape out and apply the caulk to the joint.
But remember: If you want to get the job done right, don't cut corners. A caulking gun is a sensible investment as it can be used for many years. You will be rewarded with neat and clean joints.