STOP MAKING A MESS!! Your caulking job will make or break your trim install! Here are some great tips to get super crisp lines on your trim work. Instagram @vancouver_carpenter
Thank you for NOT talking about anything but the task at hand. Drives me cray cray when the you tube folks talk about anything and everything before getting to the subject at hand. Your video's are great!
I've been a painter for 38 years. My hat is off to you. Everything that comes out of mouth in this video is like you've read my thoughts. I always tell my customers that cracks are ugly and lets include caulking for a finished look. And you're on the money with a wet rag and wet finger. You are an excellent teacher and great speaker. Thank you for the videos.
A wet rag is bad for Caulk. A damp rag is good. A finger can't tool caulk flush. Year 39 try a 90° shim to tool. Shouldn't have to tell a customer to fill a crack lol.
Only one thing. Fill your nail holes before you caulk. You may have to set nails because a nail head not countersunk. Afterwards your trim may have moved and sometimes, so will your caulk line.
I can't believe I watched all of your skateboard truck review videos when I was deciding on a new pair of trucks and now I've stumbled on your carpentry videos when I need carpentry help lol. The world needs more people like you
This is one of the best training in this subject, in less than fifteen minutes showing the ins and outs of this subject. Just showing how you do it the quality way with all the steps necessary to do the best quality job along with all what can and what goes wrong and how to fix it, I appreciate it. You are one heck of a Crafstman and a highly qualified trainer. Sir, thank you!!!!
I have been building on and off for 30 years. I have learnt soo many cool little tricks from you. You are also inspiring to watch as you are so engaging and seem passionate about what you do. Awesome vids!
You have basically rebuilt my house for me with this channel. I watch your videos, then black out and when I come to, things are done and they look great.
I just built a house and am doing a lot of the finish work myself! Gotta love RUclips! Before I tackle a project I watch videos on how to do it. Great advice and tips!
This video is great! Thanks for all the little tips and details! I am a DIY finishing my basement on my own. My appreciation and respect for tradesmen like you has exploded over the last 2 years! Thanks for sharing your thought process and experience, sir.
Thank you for your videos and that you always talk about troubleshooting!! Our house was build on a Friday a hundred years ago, noting is perfect, every wall is a unique and special snowflake, so we are always looking to RUclips for solutions. Your channel has been an enormous help as we renovate and update our old wonky house. Thank you!
A friend of mine showed me this technique about 20 years ago. The results are simply phenomenal and you can be a little sloppier putting your trim together because the caulking covers up a lot of mistakes. Great video!!
I was fortunate to have an old carpenter show me how to caulk properly my first week on the job. It's sad how many guys have been doing this for 40 years and still suck at it. It really isn't as simple as point and shoot. A lot of guys seem to just take it too lightly. The reality is you can make or break a job with your caulk work.
Correct, too bad I didn't see this video before I applied caulking on my upstairs which I just finished. Ohh well I guess I know for the future or when I'm doing basement! :) Never to late to learn.
The biggest problem ive seen is crappy tools. Try using a hilti pump. I do all my caulking freehand. (silikone, whatever) Its a matter of applying the correct amount, equally over an area, that way you can just slide youre finger and you are "done" (acrylic caulk is never done, until it has new paint over it)
Im a carpenter and in my experience I can honestly say the reason behind everyone shitty work is lack of "fucks" given. Too many people don't truely care to achieve the best they can and improve on what they do. Seems like it should be natural for people to want to be the best they can be but most, almost everyone I have ever worked with always had a " fuck it" attitude. Like any job though, if you click with the right people, nobody says shit. We all know this to be true. And in sure most people don't even know they reek of "fuck it". But same thing as people with shitty attitudes. How do they not know you can't be cranky to another grown man. How to people not know that we judge each other and how do people not want the best judgment possible from the people around them. The new generation is all about not caring what other people think. Which leads to unchecked shitty behaviour and habits. 100 guys charge x for a job You charge xx and the customer goes with the average lower end quote. Cause how are they to know right. That's why quality of work had gone down so much. My thesis. Lol
Lil Stack'n- I totally agree. The way you do one thing is the way you do everything and it carries over into your entire life. Shitty work, shitty life. It’s what most, or many don’t get. When you’re proud of your work, you’re proud of you and there’s no better way to have a great life than to know you’re doing the right thing and truly like yourself. It’s a wonderful peace of mind. You attract more and better customers and better people to be in your life. I usually tell a new customer what others charge. I then tell them, “I’m the best of the best but still charge less than the most expensive guys.” It gets you so much business to deliver that value without gouging the customer.
I'm learning so much here. Your way of casually and clearly demonstrating, describing, and anticipating others' experiences is excellent teaching! Thank you.
Spludge. What a great word. Says so much with so little need for explanation. Folks in the trades have an entire vernacular separate from the rest of the world. I like that. Something you might try sometime. I was working in a new house. The carpet guy came. I said Hey and asked, How ya doin? His response, John, was I am not on fire and no one is shooting at me. I think I'm ok. Perspective. It's helpful to have, otherwise, life is just one spludge after another. And, I appreciate your sense of humor. I found that doing remodel work, if you have no sense of humor or acceptance for things the way they are, work can really suck. Sometimes, when I discover I have really made a mess of things or a costly mistake (to me), I just laugh, shake my head, and do what needs to be done to make it right. Thanks for the smiles and for making videos that I like and from which I have learned a lot already.
I’m the one who does ALL the caulking and painting and I must say I’m pretty good at it. But I’ve learn a few things from you. I always cut the caulk hole too big and always got more then what I needed. I can’t wait to do some caulking today. Keep your videos coming.
You ARE one of the best anywhere at teaching handyman and professional skills. Your to the point, explain things in common terms, not driven by product placements or metrics ;) and a joy to watch. Please keep up the great videos and stay safe.
Instead of learning about wheels, trucks, and decks, here I am learning from you about home improvements as I finish up the new bedroom in our house. Killing it Ben! Thanks for all you do on YT. Cheers
When cabinet makers assemble all their pre-cut pieces into a project it's called a glue up. When builders/carpenters/handymen try preparing rooms for painting it's usually just a caulk up. 👦
I've only done a couple drywall jobs but your videos helped me do a surprise job for my best friend and it's turned out to be the best one ever! Thank you for the advice and video you make!
Watched your video just before doing two baseboard jobs. One of the most helpful videos ever. Your technique is amazing. Maybe in a few years I'll be able to do it as well as you! But I doubt it. But thanks for the helpful tips.
I thought this was worth sharing for non-pros: After years of caulking the houses I've lived in, I started using painter's tape along the trim before I caulk. I leave a very thin space between the trim and the tape to make sure enough caulk gets into the gap behind the trim. The prep takes longer than the caulking does, but I think it's worth it, especially if you don't have white walls like you do, which makes mistakes more obvious. After you're done caulking, you pull off the painter's tape and you have don't have any mess on the walls. Don't wait for the caulk to dry or else you'll start pulling off more caulk than you mean to.
I do this on every job, gapping the skirting to the floor. If you leave a small gap, and fill it very thinly with gap filler (caulk), the tape comes off after painting and leave a perfect line.
I’m so happy that I saw your solution for fixing large gaps on window trims. I got a similar thing happening with door frames and I’m looking forward to fixing them cleanly like you did!
You've never watched finish carpentry tv,I can tell. This guy's work looks amateur. I don't know why I even watched this. Maybe doubted myself for a second, but dang... He caulks nail holes and miters.. yuck. Doesn't cope or use a real hole filler that doesn't shrink... Don't watch a diyer turned tradesman. Watch a tradesman.
Your videos are so helpful! Thanks! I can see what I'm doing wrong in covering screws, filling wider gaps and the pressure and angle changes in toweling on mud to feather with the least amount of blistering and follow up sanding. I just have a small repairs from time to time and mudding is the skill you pay a professional for; yet small repairs are the calls you'll least likely get a guy to come out to do so I'm glad to learn it.
Man i watched this video cause honestly i suck at caulking. Finished the bottom floor today and it looks great. First video i found on youtube that helped me. Keep it up your articulate explanation made the job easy. Thanks bro.
VC! Great video. My house was definitely built on Mon to Weds. I removed the quarter-round to redo the wood floors. Your video was OUTSTANDING after reinstalling the round! It took one 10' stretch with 2 corners, and then I was putting caulk down like a pro: Fast, and done! Thanks for your video, and the tips and tricks to this!
Hadn't done any DIY plastering for 20 yrs, so I needed some reminders to warm up. There are some good RUclips teachers and some really iffy ones. Love your work, clearly explained detail, a bit basic at times but I can skip ahead if I need to and sometimes I do need a reminder about the basics. Just finished my practice 'line-the-garage" job in prep for ceiling installs in my gutted apartment. Really happy with the (almost) finished job that relied on your tips and advice, so thankyou. Have a great Christmas.
Well I feel dumb. Came here all ready to make fun of you for a 14 minute video on caulking trim (how much time did you waste?!), but after watching it you were right on. It wasn't full of filler, it was just very detailed. It's amazing how much you forget you are doing after a couple decades, how many details are just automatic "how I do it" but to someone new to caulking are not at all self evident and greatly effect the final result and frustration during. Great video!
Another Fantastic Video. I can't state it enough how grateful I am that you take the time to explain the 'why' and 'what to use' and 'why you chose that tool or material'. Thank you for imparting your knowledge via youtube
Thank you for your helpful and concise videos. I appreciate all the little tips like using an old paintbrush to clean out corners (brilliant). I also really appreciate that you remind us that everyone makes mistakes. Your videos are my go to for any DIY!
I watched this video a few weeks ago and followed your tips. Finally, I caulked every single seam in the house I just bought, properly and with no stress. Painting now and it looks great. Thank you so much!
Woah I just came looking for how to caulk a baseboard and you’re the dude who also does the skate vids, nice!! Just bought my first house and doing some maintainance so this is really helpful bro
Great video and you make it look easy to get a professional finish. Im retired now but had many years experience applying silicone sealant in the aerospace industry where you can't use a finger or any other implement - the sealant must be applied straight from the tip in its final form. An angled cut is used so that the trailing edge of the cut gives the scraping action with the gun held almost at right angles to the joint so that the sealant is forced into the joint then shaped all in one pass. Much practice makes perfect. For painters caulk your method is fine, however sometimes I use an old credit card instead of a putty knife as it can scrape both face surfaces clean without marking and gives a constant radius. I always use paintable siliconised calk as it is not so likely to crack if there is any movement in the joint later. Never use making tape to edge the calk, especially with silicone, as it leaves a ridge the same thickness of the tape, whereas a finger (or shaping tool) feathers the edge so its invisible.
Great info--thanks! I was a little leary of the putty knife because I always take a file and break the sharp corners on them, but I've been saving old credit cards for years to use as glue spreaders. Now I have another use for them.
He displays very poor technique with consistent poor outcome by not holding the tube in line with the flow of the draw. Each time he holds it to the side or otherwise he gets irregular flow. This can be done but only with skilled and swift, typically fast heavier pressure and product flow. You are right, you should be able to place a bead down with the option of pressing it it by finger if you align the tip, cut it properly and distribute it at the right flow. It requires the correct body position and a mechanical movment and if broken into steps is very fast and economical. Paint is NEVER an filler. Also, the rag should be folded in 1/4s so it can be used cleanly as you go on. My 2 cents.
Jagros, the methodology you describe is similar to that of stone cladding. Joints are sealed with silicone, and it has to be done skillfully in one pass, without the mess of fingers and smearing it into place. Also, properly installed backer rod is what forces the caulk bead into an hourglass cross-sectional shape, so it bonds to the adjacent stone panels, rather than pulling away.
I tape both sides of the joint in bathtubs, wipe once right away with my finger (s) quickly remove the tape and wipe again-perfect amount of caulk and no tape ridge left. Caulk can have air bubbles-particularly the large tubes, when he showed how to flatten the large "bloops" ...that doesn't work in a tub, you need as much as possible off the tub and tile.
I watched half a dozen videos and kept getting a poor result until I watched this. Much better tips and instructions, especially on the tooling. Thank you very much!
Thank you so much for this video. We just bought a brand new house, and when it came time for our walk through I was asking about this non stop because it was so messy and the paint overtop was horrible. They were supposed to fix it, but of course they half assed it yet again. So, atleast I know how to do it now, so I can do it myself. Thanks again
I did a 16 x 16 ceiling last year, only after figuring out the feathering techniques you had described in a few of your videos. There's a butt joint between two sheets just four feet in from a window; not a suggestion of a shadow even with daylight only. Real proud. Thanks very much. Comment on caulking technique: some tubes used to have instructions recommending "pushing" the tube along the joint rather than "pulling". I find this does two things: when you have the speed and feed coordinated, it pushes the caulk into the joint and the trailing edge of the plastic nozzle forms the bead neatly. May still need to be tooled but minimally. I use a putty knife too, but also have a double-ended tool having a square putty-type blade at one end, and a rounded point at the other. Works great on inside crown joints. Thanks again for great videos.
Awesome tutorial - thank you. I’m guilty of cutting too much off the tip of the tube then wondering why I’ve got way too much caulk coming out 🤪. I learned lots from you👍
Good Video. I have been painting for longer than you have been alive. Today is seems like young carpenters think painters can fix everything. I can tell a good carpenter by how much caulking I use on a house. Rest assured, finish carpenters have to deal with poor framing issues more often than not which takes them a lot of additional time. I always make sure I compliment a good carpenter and consider it an honor to paint his/her work. In the end, the painter gets all the credit. In reality, the finish carpenter is the person who makes a house stand out from all the rest. Everyone should take pride in their work in order to reach a common goal. Again, your video is good and a reminder that no one lives in the perfect world of construction. Also, a great video on problems every painter on the planet will experience at one time or another and how to correct them.
Thank you, thank you, thank you! Just knowing there are still people who care about doing a good job is enough for all of those thank yous....And three more for the tips in the video!
Been in the business forty plus years everything from monuments to house boat's, commercial, residential and everything in between but I can still learn a trick or two and I have on your channel especially drywall getting good at it now but still hate it but the customers want a do it all, concrete, plumbing, framing, finish carpentry, elctrical are my favorites but a good lesson for us older folks not to ignore the young people.
I just ran out and bought some caulk after reading this comment. The wet towel over the finger pushes the caulk into the cracks, smooths it out AND cleans up behind itself in a single stroke. Well played, sir.
This is awesome. I have struggled with caulking as never knew how to do it right . This gives me a lot more confidence and is so well explained. At least the crappy caulk I did so far is in the garage.
Great video. Watched it and because of your excellent teaching style and tips, made my trim work turn out much, much better. Great job and thanks for doing the video!!!
I needed to see this, just starting to prep for painting and thought I was going to try and use some sort of plaster/filler product for the gaps but not anymore! This looks much easier.
This was perfect as I have some Friday mouldings waiting for me. Damn you Monday’s..... but on a lighter note I’ve managed to avoid any caulk jokes in my reply. Yeah me! Awesome video as always!
As a painter, our saying was PUT SOME CAULKING IN IT. Baseboard is warped? PUT SOME CAULKING IN IT. Hole in the wall? PUT SOME CAULKING IN IT. Girlfriend got pregnant? PUT SOME CAULKING IN IT.
I have seen several videos on caulking yet like other topics you were once again able to show additional tips with good camera shots that others didn't provide. On the window casing, the left side appeared scribed and the angle cut moved further up to match the bottom piece. A video on your technique for that would be awesome. Oh, and it wouldn't be about drywall finishing!! Heh!
That was really helpful! Like a lot of others here, I've been cutting way too big of an opening. Also like the rag & water bucket thing - I usually keep a roll of the blue shop towels handy to wipe off the excess, but I end up with wads of them everywhere, lots of waste, and sometimes if I set one down wrong I'll get a dab on the floor (which means I'm highly likely to step in it and make an even bigger mess, lol). So one question - how do you deal with the outside edge of the baseboard? I've seen some people burnish it shut with the shaft of a screwdriver. Is there a more "elegant" solution?
Love your videos and find them helpful. Thanks for that. I'm not very good at caulking although over the (many) years I've improved (as a DIY guy). I have a relatively small caulking project (trim on floor, around a window and a door). I liked your suggestions BUT ... I just tried cutting a small, 1/4 inch hole in the tip of some Alex Plus Latex Caulk (looks like the same stuff you're using as a demonstration0. As you indicated, the "piercer" on the gun was too think to pass through the hole. So, I put it in my caulking gun and squeezed the trigger. The caulking escaped through the rear of the caulking tube. I removed the tube from the gun, cleaned up the mess then found some small gauge wire that would fit through the smaller hole. That worked. Regardless of the initial messy problem, I found the smaller hole definitely makes caulking much easier. Thanks again.
It takes an artist eye to see and catch detail like this. You are an artist in every way! thank you for these great tips and very informative videos. Been following you for years and still learning! Keep up the good work my friend! 👍👍👍😎🇨🇱
I learned something, thanks. but I just normally use a sponge. I know it can be messy sometimes but it seems to always balance or should I say level the caulking out to a smooth surface. I really enjoyed the video is easy to watch not a lot of crazy music in the background or a lot of Animation just straight to the point a normal speed for person who is wanting to learn a new approach just something they may think they have already mastered. Thank you
Thank you for NOT talking about anything but the task at hand. Drives me cray cray when the you tube folks talk about anything and everything before getting to the subject at hand. Your video's are great!
I've been a painter for 38 years. My hat is off to you. Everything that comes out of mouth in this video is like you've read my thoughts. I always tell my customers that cracks are ugly and lets include caulking for a finished look. And you're on the money with a wet rag and wet finger. You are an excellent teacher and great speaker. Thank you for the videos.
That corner is unacceptable paint doesn't fill
A wet rag is bad for Caulk. A damp rag is good. A finger can't tool caulk flush. Year 39 try a 90° shim to tool. Shouldn't have to tell a customer to fill a crack lol.
Only one thing. Fill your nail holes before you caulk. You may have to set nails because a nail head not countersunk. Afterwards your trim may have moved and sometimes, so will your caulk line.
@@mikespainting291 correct because air gets behind a crack filled with paint and WILL CRACK eventually. @Ben you are wrong about paint filling cracks
Thank you. Super helpful.
I think my house must have been built on a friday.
symposes funny 60’s house?
@@shafiamati townhouse built in 86. was a rental for some time before it was flipped and I bought it.
Lol
lol!!!!!
😂😂😂
I am a 50 year veteran cabinet maker but I still learned a few tips from your videos. I respect you and your stile very much. God bless you
i am a carpenter too, I got your joke on style..stile. Rails and Stiles for cabinet doors, good one.
I can't believe I watched all of your skateboard truck review videos when I was deciding on a new pair of trucks and now I've stumbled on your carpentry videos when I need carpentry help lol. The world needs more people like you
This is one of the best training in this subject, in less than fifteen minutes showing the ins and outs of this subject. Just showing how you do it the quality way with all the steps necessary to do the best quality job along with all what can and what goes wrong and how to fix it, I appreciate it. You are one heck of a Crafstman and a highly qualified trainer. Sir, thank you!!!!
I have been building on and off for 30 years. I have learnt soo many cool little tricks from you. You are also inspiring to watch as you are so engaging and seem passionate about what you do. Awesome vids!
You have basically rebuilt my house for me with this channel. I watch your videos, then black out and when I come to, things are done and they look great.
Drinking helps everyday feel like a Friday
Thank you so much for this. I’m a newbie and learned a lot. It’s nice to see someone else being unapologetically perfectionist!
I just built a house and am doing a lot of the finish work myself! Gotta love RUclips! Before I tackle a project I watch videos on how to do it. Great advice and tips!
This video is great! Thanks for all the little tips and details! I am a DIY finishing my basement on my own. My appreciation and respect for tradesmen like you has exploded over the last 2 years! Thanks for sharing your thought process and experience, sir.
Thank you for your videos and that you always talk about troubleshooting!! Our house was build on a Friday a hundred years ago, noting is perfect, every wall is a unique and special snowflake, so we are always looking to RUclips for solutions. Your channel has been an enormous help as we renovate and update our old wonky house. Thank you!
A friend of mine showed me this technique about 20 years ago. The results are simply phenomenal and you can be a little sloppier putting your trim together because the caulking covers up a lot of mistakes. Great video!!
I was fortunate to have an old carpenter show me how to caulk properly my first week on the job. It's sad how many guys have been doing this for 40 years and still suck at it. It really isn't as simple as point and shoot. A lot of guys seem to just take it too lightly. The reality is you can make or break a job with your caulk work.
Correct, too bad I didn't see this video before I applied caulking on my upstairs which I just finished. Ohh well I guess I know for the future or when I'm doing basement! :) Never to late to learn.
The biggest problem ive seen is crappy tools. Try using a hilti pump.
I do all my caulking freehand. (silikone, whatever)
Its a matter of applying the correct amount, equally over an area, that way you can just slide youre finger and you are "done" (acrylic caulk is never done, until it has new paint over it)
To fix small areas or to remove old sealants try a heat gun.
Makes it pliable and you can cut it out easier with a razor knife.
Im a carpenter and in my experience I can honestly say the reason behind everyone shitty work is lack of "fucks" given. Too many people don't truely care to achieve the best they can and improve on what they do. Seems like it should be natural for people to want to be the best they can be but most, almost everyone I have ever worked with always had a " fuck it" attitude. Like any job though, if you click with the right people, nobody says shit. We all know this to be true. And in sure most people don't even know they reek of "fuck it". But same thing as people with shitty attitudes. How do they not know you can't be cranky to another grown man. How to people not know that we judge each other and how do people not want the best judgment possible from the people around them. The new generation is all about not caring what other people think. Which leads to unchecked shitty behaviour and habits.
100 guys charge x for a job
You charge xx and the customer goes with the average lower end quote. Cause how are they to know right. That's why quality of work had gone down so much.
My thesis. Lol
Lil Stack'n- I totally agree. The way you do one thing is the way you do everything and it carries over into your entire life. Shitty work, shitty life. It’s what most, or many don’t get. When you’re proud of your work, you’re proud of you and there’s no better way to have a great life than to know you’re doing the right thing and truly like yourself. It’s a wonderful peace of mind. You attract more and better customers and better people to be in your life. I usually tell a new customer what others charge. I then tell them, “I’m the best of the best but still charge less than the most expensive guys.” It gets you so much business to deliver that value without gouging the customer.
I'm learning so much here. Your way of casually and clearly demonstrating, describing, and anticipating others' experiences is excellent teaching! Thank you.
Spludge. What a great word. Says so much with so little need for explanation. Folks in the trades have an entire vernacular separate from the rest of the world. I like that. Something you might try sometime. I was working in a new house. The carpet guy came. I said Hey and asked, How ya doin? His response, John, was I am not on fire and no one is shooting at me. I think I'm ok.
Perspective. It's helpful to have, otherwise, life is just one spludge after another. And, I appreciate your sense of humor. I found that doing remodel work, if you have no sense of humor or acceptance for things the way they are, work can really suck.
Sometimes, when I discover I have really made a mess of things or a costly mistake (to me), I just laugh, shake my head, and do what needs to be done to make it right. Thanks for the smiles and for making videos that I like and from which I have learned a lot already.
I’m the one who does ALL the caulking and painting and I must say I’m pretty good at it. But I’ve learn a few things from you. I always cut the caulk hole too big and always got more then what I needed. I can’t wait to do some caulking today. Keep your videos coming.
It's like watching Michelangelo make a fresco
Only a master can make it look easy
Dude, please accept my appreciation
You ARE one of the best anywhere at teaching handyman and professional skills. Your to the point, explain things in common terms, not driven by product placements or metrics ;) and a joy to watch. Please keep up the great videos and stay safe.
Instead of learning about wheels, trucks, and decks, here I am learning from you about home improvements as I finish up the new bedroom in our house. Killing it Ben! Thanks for all you do on YT. Cheers
I wish I’d found you 6 months ago! And love your video man! Super relaxed and clear and fun 👌👌
When cabinet makers assemble all their pre-cut pieces into a project it's called a glue up. When builders/carpenters/handymen try preparing rooms for painting it's usually just a caulk up. 👦
I've only done a couple drywall jobs but your videos helped me do a surprise job for my best friend and it's turned out to be the best one ever! Thank you for the advice and video you make!
Man I’m so stoked you have this channel too. Getting a good dose of Ben.
Watched your video just before doing two baseboard jobs. One of the most helpful videos ever. Your technique is amazing. Maybe in a few years I'll be able to do it as well as you! But I doubt it.
But thanks for the helpful tips.
I thought this was worth sharing for non-pros: After years of caulking the houses I've lived in, I started using painter's tape along the trim before I caulk. I leave a very thin space between the trim and the tape to make sure enough caulk gets into the gap behind the trim. The prep takes longer than the caulking does, but I think it's worth it, especially if you don't have white walls like you do, which makes mistakes more obvious. After you're done caulking, you pull off the painter's tape and you have don't have any mess on the walls. Don't wait for the caulk to dry or else you'll start pulling off more caulk than you mean to.
Noob question, but are we supposed to caulk before we paint the trims, or after for a finished look? Please don't crucify me for asking! Thank you
@@pr3ciousara before paint
Thanks for sharing, highly appreciated.
I do this on every job, gapping the skirting to the floor. If you leave a small gap, and fill it very thinly with gap filler (caulk), the tape comes off after painting and leave a perfect line.
Thank you. I love your method more and I think it allows those of us with little-to-no experience to make the work look nice and professional.
This was quick, informative and lightly peppered with some humor. A GREAT video for any weekend handyman. Thanks. This was extremely helpful!
I’m so happy that I saw your solution for fixing large gaps on window trims. I got a similar thing happening with door frames and I’m looking forward to fixing them cleanly like you did!
This is my favorite channel for carpentry tips.
You've never watched finish carpentry tv,I can tell.
This guy's work looks amateur. I don't know why I even watched this. Maybe doubted myself for a second, but dang... He caulks nail holes and miters.. yuck. Doesn't cope or use a real hole filler that doesn't shrink... Don't watch a diyer turned tradesman. Watch a tradesman.
Ok, so I took your advise...made the little adjustments...what a huge difference! Thank you!
Wow, great video! You're a good speaker, a good teacher, and a good caulker! Well done.
Your videos are so helpful! Thanks! I can see what I'm doing wrong in covering screws, filling wider gaps and the pressure and angle changes in toweling on mud to feather with the least amount of blistering and follow up sanding. I just have a small repairs from time to time and mudding is the skill you pay a professional for; yet small repairs are the calls you'll least likely get a guy to come out to do so I'm glad to learn it.
Love it - thank you for posting this. Excellent help to me for when I redo the Friday job done by my professional builder.
OK this is the second vid of yours that Ive watched and I'm impressed again. Youre good.
You have some of the best drywall/trim videos buddy! Just did my inside corner taping and mudding and it worked first go after watching your stuff.
Thank you for sharing your expertise and craftsmanship. You are a natural teacher!
Man i watched this video cause honestly i suck at caulking. Finished the bottom floor today and it looks great. First video i found on youtube that helped me. Keep it up your articulate explanation made the job easy. Thanks bro.
This was a great video. Caulking has always been one of my nemesis.
VC! Great video. My house was definitely built on Mon to Weds. I removed the quarter-round to redo the wood floors. Your video was OUTSTANDING after reinstalling the round! It took one 10' stretch with 2 corners, and then I was putting caulk down like a pro: Fast, and done! Thanks for your video, and the tips and tricks to this!
Hadn't done any DIY plastering for 20 yrs, so I needed some reminders to warm up. There are some good RUclips teachers and some really iffy ones. Love your work, clearly explained detail, a bit basic at times but I can skip ahead if I need to and sometimes I do need a reminder about the basics. Just finished my practice 'line-the-garage" job in prep for ceiling installs in my gutted apartment. Really happy with the (almost) finished job that relied on your tips and advice, so thankyou. Have a great Christmas.
Well I feel dumb. Came here all ready to make fun of you for a 14 minute video on caulking trim (how much time did you waste?!), but after watching it you were right on. It wasn't full of filler, it was just very detailed. It's amazing how much you forget you are doing after a couple decades, how many details are just automatic "how I do it" but to someone new to caulking are not at all self evident and greatly effect the final result and frustration during. Great video!
Thank you! It seems pretty intuitive I agree but if it were really so easy there wouldn't be so many brutal caulking jobs.
So important to keep an open mind and willing to improve on things that "you've always done". You never know what you'll learn !
... but that's the way dad always did it. Oh that's right, Dad was a hack
Another Fantastic Video. I can't state it enough how grateful I am that you take the time to explain the 'why' and 'what to use' and 'why you chose that tool or material'. Thank you for imparting your knowledge via youtube
Thank you for your helpful and concise videos. I appreciate all the little tips like using an old paintbrush to clean out corners (brilliant). I also really appreciate that you remind us that everyone makes mistakes. Your videos are my go to for any DIY!
I watched this video a few weeks ago and followed your tips. Finally, I caulked every single seam in the house I just bought, properly and with no stress. Painting now and it looks great. Thank you so much!
You’re welcome boo thang
Woah I just came looking for how to caulk a baseboard and you’re the dude who also does the skate vids, nice!! Just bought my first house and doing some maintainance so this is really helpful bro
Great video and you make it look easy to get a professional finish.
Im retired now but had many years experience applying silicone sealant in the aerospace industry where you can't use a finger or any other implement - the sealant must be applied straight from the tip in its final form. An angled cut is used so that the trailing edge of the cut gives the scraping action with the gun held almost at right angles to the joint so that the sealant is forced into the joint then shaped all in one pass. Much practice makes perfect.
For painters caulk your method is fine, however sometimes I use an old credit card instead of a putty knife as it can scrape both face surfaces clean without marking and gives a constant radius. I always use paintable siliconised calk as it is not so likely to crack if there is any movement in the joint later.
Never use making tape to edge the calk, especially with silicone, as it leaves a ridge the same thickness of the tape, whereas a finger (or shaping tool) feathers the edge so its invisible.
Much thanks for your experience tips!
Great info--thanks! I was a little leary of the putty knife because I always take a file and break the sharp corners on them, but I've been saving old credit cards for years to use as glue spreaders. Now I have another use for them.
He displays very poor technique with consistent poor outcome by not holding the tube in line with the flow of the draw. Each time he holds it to the side or otherwise he gets irregular flow. This can be done but only with skilled and swift, typically fast heavier pressure and product flow. You are right, you should be able to place a bead down with the option of pressing it it by finger if you align the tip, cut it properly and distribute it at the right flow. It requires the correct body position and a mechanical movment and if broken into steps is very fast and economical. Paint is NEVER an filler. Also, the rag should be folded in 1/4s so it can be used cleanly as you go on. My 2 cents.
Jagros, the methodology you describe is similar to that of stone cladding. Joints are sealed with silicone, and it has to be done skillfully in one pass, without the mess of fingers and smearing it into place. Also, properly installed backer rod is what forces the caulk bead into an hourglass cross-sectional shape, so it bonds to the adjacent stone panels, rather than pulling away.
I tape both sides of the joint in bathtubs, wipe once right away with my finger (s) quickly remove the tape and wipe again-perfect amount of caulk and no tape ridge left. Caulk can have air bubbles-particularly the large tubes, when he showed how to flatten the large "bloops" ...that doesn't work in a tub, you need as much as possible off the tub and tile.
Not even 60 seconds in and you already made me smile. Love your videos. :)
I watched half a dozen videos and kept getting a poor result until I watched this. Much better tips and instructions, especially on the tooling. Thank you very much!
Thank you so much for this video. We just bought a brand new house, and when it came time for our walk through I was asking about this non stop because it was so messy and the paint overtop was horrible. They were supposed to fix it, but of course they half assed it yet again. So, atleast I know how to do it now, so I can do it myself. Thanks again
I did a 16 x 16 ceiling last year, only after figuring out the feathering techniques you had described in a few of your videos. There's a butt joint between two sheets just four feet in from a window; not a suggestion of a shadow even with daylight only. Real proud. Thanks very much.
Comment on caulking technique: some tubes used to have instructions recommending "pushing" the tube along the joint rather than "pulling". I find this does two things: when you have the speed and feed coordinated, it pushes the caulk into the joint and the trailing edge of the plastic nozzle forms the bead neatly. May still need to be tooled but minimally. I use a putty knife too, but also have a double-ended tool having a square putty-type blade at one end, and a rounded point at the other. Works great on inside crown joints.
Thanks again for great videos.
Pushing explanation is helpful
Very helpful. The close up shots help along with the detailed explanations and instructions. Thank you.
This guy is the best. I always learn something new about things I’ve been doing for years.
Awesome tutorial - thank you. I’m guilty of cutting too much off the tip of the tube then wondering why I’ve got way too much caulk coming out 🤪. I learned lots from you👍
Once again, thank you very much. I'm getting ready to finish a room and this helps a ton. I've got the trim in but I still need to caulk.
I have a ton of CAULK
Good Video. I have been painting for longer than you have been alive. Today is seems like young carpenters think painters can fix everything. I can tell a good carpenter by how much caulking I use on a house. Rest assured, finish carpenters have to deal with poor framing issues more often than not which takes them a lot of additional time. I always make sure I compliment a good carpenter and consider it an honor to paint his/her work. In the end, the painter gets all the credit. In reality, the finish carpenter is the person who makes a house stand out from all the rest. Everyone should take pride in their work in order to reach a common goal. Again, your video is good and a reminder that no one lives in the perfect world of construction. Also, a great video on problems every painter on the planet will experience at one time or another and how to correct them.
Dude!, watch ur video 3 times, started caulking my baseboards, and it was friggin easy, KEEP hand wet! My wife said it was a pro job !! thank u
Thank you, thank you, thank you! Just knowing there are still people who care about doing a good job is enough for all of those thank yous....And three more for the tips in the video!
I have 90 yrs experience and you're doing great!
Wow, how old are you?
@@Jonnynnoj thats what i was thinking
Man you are absolutely amazing!!! Here I am 70 years old and learning how to caulk...
This is the best video on this subject that I have listen to and explains caulking perfectly
Been in the business forty plus years everything from monuments to house boat's, commercial, residential and everything in between but I can still learn a trick or two and I have on your channel especially drywall getting good at it now but still hate it but the customers want a do it all, concrete, plumbing, framing, finish carpentry, elctrical are my favorites but a good lesson for us older folks not to ignore the young people.
Good grief I've been cutting the tubes WAY too big.
Me too, now hopefully I'll have less cleaning up to do and will get more out of each tube.
Me too! I just realized this thanks to this video!
Me too.
Depends on the job you are doing - the floor trim doesn't need much product.
@Jimmy Jazz I just celebrated my 25th rookie season.
That putty knife technique is extremely helpful. I've been painting and caulking a while now and there's always more to learn. Subscribed!
Great tips and advice! I’m a noob who had never done this before and the results look great. Thanks for being you!
I have always cut the hole too big 🤦🏼♀️ glad I decided to watch this before caulking my baseboards
Round the caulking tube tip and Damp wash cloth over the finger can help you too. I was a high end house and commercial painter for 10 years.
I just ran out and bought some caulk after reading this comment. The wet towel over the finger pushes the caulk into the cracks, smooths it out AND cleans up behind itself in a single stroke. Well played, sir.
That's how I do it too, I change paper towels for damp rag. Wash of and reuse all day.
high-end painter mmmm does that mean you worked off a ladder.
@@brian.7966 enough with the jokes already
What's a high end painter?? You're either a painter or you're not!
This is awesome. I have struggled with caulking as never knew how to do it right . This gives me a lot more confidence and is so well explained. At least the crappy caulk I did so far is in the garage.
Great video. Watched it and because of your excellent teaching style and tips, made my trim work turn out much, much better. Great job and thanks for doing the video!!!
I needed to see this, just starting to prep for painting and thought I was going to try and use some sort of plaster/filler product for the gaps but not anymore! This looks much easier.
This was TOTALLY worth my subscription! Thank you!
Great tips. I’ve made a lot of the mistakes you showed. I think your techniques will really help me get perfectly caulked baseboards.
The real MVP. Clear and well explained. Thank you sir
FRIDAY TRIM! I love it.
This was perfect as I have some Friday mouldings waiting for me. Damn you Monday’s..... but on a lighter note I’ve managed to avoid any caulk jokes in my reply. Yeah me!
Awesome video as always!
Great video bud. Caulking has been my nemesis for years. This explains what I've been doing wrong. Thank you!
Thank you for the tip about start by moving in the middle of a bead! I struggle with caulking. Really appreciate this video!
When I caulk I need 3 buckets of water and 50 rags.
Same 🤣🤣
I just run the hose on to my head the whole time im doing it.
So that's what my problem was. I cut the tube hole to big. Thanks for the tips.
Would that be a tip tip? Lol...
According to the video, if your a liberal it's pronounced cock tip! LoL. Thanks but no thanks, I'll stay conservative.
@@workhardism I'm with you lol. It took me a while to learn to say caulk, I'm not going to unlearn it now anyway!
Just the tip!
I suppose the tube hole should correspond with the size of the gap.
You are the best teacher. You are making great job. Respect. Greetings from Poland!
I feel like I have a much better chance of not messing up when I caulk my kitchen tomorrow. Thank you so much for making this video
Been cutting my tunes too big, this actually makes me want to go caulk something
Thanks for all the tips and details! Love this video as a first time home owner trying to do some simple diys around the house during quarantine!
Great video. The close ups really help. I wish I had put off my bedroom remodel until after you posted all your videos. 👍👍👍👍
DO YOUR BEST, AND CAULK THE REST
Hack.
Yeet!
Believe in the caulk
As a painter, our saying was PUT SOME CAULKING IN IT. Baseboard is warped? PUT SOME CAULKING IN IT. Hole in the wall? PUT SOME CAULKING IN IT. Girlfriend got pregnant? PUT SOME CAULKING IN IT.
@@HAL-dm1eh just give it a big tube of caulk
I'm not sure how you ended up in my feed but damnit, the Friday trim comment won me.
Another good video. You have the gift for explaining things. Plus your mechanical skills are in line with your explanation.
I'm about 1 month into an apartment maintenance job, thank you so much for your great video. Definitely feel more confident about caulking
If I get a large glob of caulk, I start with my thumb because its larger, and work down through my fingers getting smaller in size. Works for me.
That’s why we have 5 different size fingers
I have seen several videos on caulking yet like other topics you were once again able to show additional tips with good camera shots that others didn't provide.
On the window casing, the left side appeared scribed and the angle cut moved further up to match the bottom piece. A video on your technique for that would be awesome. Oh, and it wouldn't be about drywall finishing!! Heh!
Most helpful video on caulking tips and tricks. Really appreciated.
You have some of the most helpful videos that I’ve come across. Thank you!!
"A little caulk & a little paint, makes it look like it IS what it clearly ain't.".
That was really helpful! Like a lot of others here, I've been cutting way too big of an opening. Also like the rag & water bucket thing - I usually keep a roll of the blue shop towels handy to wipe off the excess, but I end up with wads of them everywhere, lots of waste, and sometimes if I set one down wrong I'll get a dab on the floor (which means I'm highly likely to step in it and make an even bigger mess, lol). So one question - how do you deal with the outside edge of the baseboard? I've seen some people burnish it shut with the shaft of a screwdriver. Is there a more "elegant" solution?
Love your videos and find them helpful. Thanks for that. I'm not very good at caulking although over the (many) years I've improved (as a DIY guy). I have a relatively small caulking project (trim on floor, around a window and a door). I liked your suggestions BUT ... I just tried cutting a small, 1/4 inch hole in the tip of some Alex Plus Latex Caulk (looks like the same stuff you're using as a demonstration0. As you indicated, the "piercer" on the gun was too think to pass through the hole. So, I put it in my caulking gun and squeezed the trigger. The caulking escaped through the rear of the caulking tube. I removed the tube from the gun, cleaned up the mess then found some small gauge wire that would fit through the smaller hole. That worked.
Regardless of the initial messy problem, I found the smaller hole definitely makes caulking much easier. Thanks again.
It takes an artist eye to see and catch detail like this. You are an artist in every way! thank you for these great tips and very informative videos. Been following you for years and still learning! Keep up the good work my friend! 👍👍👍😎🇨🇱
Do you have a video on dealing with all those nail heads?
My finished leaves homeowner speechless I let my caulking do the talkin 😉.... Carpenters do their best and Painters caulk the rest....
I like the sound effects for the bad caulking job. Great job sir.
You make the best content bro. I feel like a pro every time I watch your videos.
I learned something, thanks. but I just normally use a sponge. I know it can be messy sometimes but it seems to always balance or should I say level the caulking out to a smooth surface. I really enjoyed the video is easy to watch not a lot of crazy music in the background or a lot of Animation just straight to the point a normal speed for person who is wanting to learn a new approach just something they may think they have already mastered. Thank you
Your cute :)
Called feathering