How To Use A Caulking Gun: 13 Steps (with Pictures) - WikiHow

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Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow How to Load & Use a Caulk Gun for the First Time PDF download Download Article Follow these expert-backed tips for filling cracks with caulk Co-authored by Ryaan Tuttle and Hunter Rising

Last Updated: March 10, 2025 Fact Checked

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  • Cleaning and Masking the Area
    • |
  • Loading the Caulk Gun
    • |
  • Applying the Caulk
    • |
  • Video
    • |
  • Expert Q&A
    • |
  • Tips
    • |
  • Things You'll Need
|Show more |Show less X

This article was co-authored by Ryaan Tuttle and by wikiHow staff writer, Hunter Rising. Ryaan Tuttle is a Home Improvement Specialist and the CEO of Best Handyman, Inc. in Boston, Massachusetts. With over 17 years of experience, he specializes in building home service businesses, focusing on creating scalable and efficient brands. With the help of his global team, the companies have achieved over 10+ million in sales and received recognition through magazine features, and enjoy partnerships with wikiHow and Jobber field service software. Boston Magazine and LocalBest.com have named Best Handyman Boston the Best Handyman in Boston. Ryaan holds Construction Supervisor and Home Improvement Contractor Licenses. There are 11 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 813,091 times.

Do you need to make a clean, watertight seal for your current DIY project? Whether you’re sealing a tub, filling in cracks around windows, or adding a clean edge to baseboards, a caulking gun makes application so much quicker and simpler. Almost all caulking guns work the same way, so we’re able to help no matter what kind you have. Keep reading and we’ll walk you through your caulking project from start to finish.

Just here to learn how to load a caulk gun? Jump straight to the section here.

Things You Should Know

  • Cut a 45-degree angle in the tip of a tube of caulk with a knife or using the hole next to the gun’s trigger.
  • Pull back the metal rod on the gun and load the tube of caulk into the gun. Hold the gun at a 45-degree angle to the crack you’re filling.
  • Squeeze the trigger and slowly move the gun to apply the caulk in a smooth line.
  • Run your finger over the line of caulk to fill in the gaps and smooth it out.

Steps

Part 1 Part 1 of 3:

Cleaning and Masking the Area

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  1. Step 1 Clean off all... 1 Clean off all the old caulk with a putty knife. Place the sharp end of the putty knife at the base of the old caulk. Then, grab the handle and push the knife forward. Keep pushing forward until you remove all the caulk.
    • Alternatively, you can use a caulk removal tool or a utility knife.[1]
    • To make caulk easier to remove, apply a caulk softener, wait 20-30 minutes, and then scrape it with a carpet or putty knife.[2]
    • By removing the old caulk that may be cracking, you're avoiding building a new layer on weak foundations.[3]
  2. Step 2 Wash the surface with alcohol, bleach, and hot water. 2 Wash the surface with alcohol, bleach, and hot water. Wet a cloth with rubbing alcohol and set it on the crack to soften any leftover caulk. Then, wet a rag with warm water and diluted bleach to disinfect the surface. Then, rinse the area with a different rag soaked in hot water.[4] Dry the surface with a towel when you’re finished since new caulk won’t adhere when it’s wet.[5]
    • Caulking traps anything inside the crack so make sure all dirt is completely removed.
    • If you see any caulk or grime left over, use a plastic scraper to lift it up.
    • If you're removing silicone caulk from tiles, heat it up with a hair dryer or apply a commercial solvent.
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  3. Step 3 Protect the surrounding... 3 Protect the surrounding surface with painter's tape. Stick one long strip above the crack and one right below it. This tape keeps the caulk off of anything nearby so it doesn’t stick or harden where you don’t want it. It also acts as insurance in case you make a mistake later on.[6]
    • Using painter's tape also makes the edges of your caulk line clean and smooth.
    4. Advertisement
Part 2 Part 2 of 3:

Loading the Caulk Gun

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  1. Step 1 Press the caulk gun’s release trigger to pull the rod back. 1 Press the caulk gun’s release trigger to pull the rod back. Look for a small metal trigger on the back of the caulking gun where the long metal rod connects. Press the trigger down with your thumb to loosen the rod that runs through the entirety of the frame. With your other hand, pull the rod as far back as you can and hold it.[7]
  2. Step 2 Cut the nozzle on a tube of caulk to a 45-degree angle. 2 Cut the nozzle on a tube of caulk to a 45-degree angle. Use a pair of scissors to cut the nozzle so it’s about the size of the crack. If the crack is large, consider cutting the nozzle close to the tube so more caulk comes out. If the crack is small, cut the nozzle near the end to be more precise.[8]
    • This choice is permanent, so think carefully about the thickness before you make the cut. It's better to start closer to the end of the nozzle and make the opening bigger if you need to.[9]
  3. Step 3 Pierce the nozzle with the gun’s piercing rod or a nail. 3 Pierce the nozzle with the gun’s piercing rod or a nail. Check the front of the caulk gun for a short metal piece that folds out. Stick the metal piece into the end of the caulk’s nozzle until you feel it poke through the tube. If your caulk gun doesn’t have a small metal rod, then use a sharp nail to puncture the tube.[10]
    • Check the instructions that came with the tube of caulk you’re using to see if there’s a specific way to pierce the tube.
  4. Step 4 Insert the tube of caulk into the gun. 4 Insert the tube of caulk into the gun. Keep holding the steel rod back, and put the flat end of the caulk tube into the back of the frame. Position the nozzle so it slots into the hole at the front of the gun. Squeeze the large trigger on the gun lightly to make sure the tube is snug and level.[11]
    • If you need to, ask a friend or family member to help keep the rod back as you work on inserting the caulking tube.
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Part 3 Part 3 of 3:

Applying the Caulk

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  1. Step 1 Pull the trigger and move the gun over a piece of paper to practice. 1 Pull the trigger and move the gun over a piece of paper to practice. Hold the gun at a 45-degree angle with the nozzle facing downwards. Then, over a piece of paper, press the trigger at the back of the gun while moving the caulking gun steadily in one direction. The caulk will come out in a smooth, steady stream when you do it correctly.[12]
    • If you move the caulking gun too fast, the caulk will look too thin and uneven. If you move the caulking gun too slowly, the caulk will be clumpy and unworkable. Take your time to find a good balance between the two.[13]
    • It may take a few squeezes of the trigger to get your caulk gun started for the first time. Just let the pressure off the trigger and try squeezing it again.
  2. Step 2 Hold the caulking gun at 45 degrees to the crack. 2 Hold the caulking gun at 45 degrees to the crack. Hold the caulking gun with both hands so one is on the trigger and the other is supporting the end of the gun. Tilt the entire gun at a 45-degree angle so the caulk flows out evenly.[14] The caulk should start to flow towards the nozzle.[15]
    • Although the trigger will push some of the caulk out of the tube, by holding the gun at 45 degrees, gravity helps with the process.
  3. Step 3 Press the trigger to push the caulk into the nozzle. 3 Press the trigger to push the caulk into the nozzle. Once you push the trigger, the steel rod will push the back of the caulk tube to force it out of the nozzle. Press the trigger firmly and steadily to apply the caulk in a slow, controlled manner.[16]
  4. Step 4 Move the caulking gun across the length of the crack. 4 Move the caulking gun across the length of the crack. As the caulk comes out of the nozzle, slowly move the caulking gun along the entire crack. Try to move in a single, steady motion so the caulk fills the crack evenly.[17]
    • If you missed any spots, don't worry. Just come back and fill them in with a second pass.
  5. Step 5 Smooth the caulk line with your finger. 5 Smooth the caulk line with your finger. Put on a disposable glove and wet the tip of your finger with some warm water. Quickly drag your finger along the line of caulk to smooth it against the surface and create a clean finish.[18]
    • Wearing a glove helps prevent caulk from sticking to your hands since it can be difficult to clean off.
  6. Step 6 Remove any painter's tape and let the caulk dry. 6 Remove any painter's tape and let the caulk dry. Peel off all the painter's tape and leave the caulk to dry. Each caulk tube will direct you with the precise time to wait until it's completely dry. Generally, it takes at least 24 hours for the caulk to completely solidify.[19]
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Expert Q&A

Search Add New Question
  • Question Should I smooth out the line of caulk? Barry Zakar Barry Zakar Handyman Barry Zakar is a professional handyman and the founder of Little Red Truck Home Services based in the San Francisco Bay Area. With over ten years of experience, Barry specializes in a variety of carpentry projects. He is skilled at constructing decks, railings, fences, gates, and various pieces of furniture. Barry also holds his MBA from John F. Kennedy University. Barry Zakar Barry Zakar Handyman Expert Answer You don't have to, especially if you're happy with the bead you put down. However, if not, you can wet your finger and use it to smooth down the caulk before it dries. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 5 Helpful 8
  • Question Can I use an Olfa knife to remove the old caulk? Ryaan Tuttle Ryaan Tuttle Home Improvement Specialist Ryaan Tuttle is a Home Improvement Specialist and the CEO of Best Handyman, Inc. in Boston, Massachusetts. With over 17 years of experience, he specializes in building home service businesses, focusing on creating scalable and efficient brands. With the help of his global team, the companies have achieved over 10+ million in sales and received recognition through magazine features, and enjoy partnerships with wikiHow and Jobber field service software. Boston Magazine and LocalBest.com have named Best Handyman Boston the Best Handyman in Boston. Ryaan holds Construction Supervisor and Home Improvement Contractor Licenses. Ryaan Tuttle Ryaan Tuttle Home Improvement Specialist Expert Answer An Olfa knife helps remove old caulk. It has a super-sharp thin blade that can get all the caulking out. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 2 Helpful 4
  • Question How do you remove old caulking? Ryaan Tuttle Ryaan Tuttle Home Improvement Specialist Ryaan Tuttle is a Home Improvement Specialist and the CEO of Best Handyman, Inc. in Boston, Massachusetts. With over 17 years of experience, he specializes in building home service businesses, focusing on creating scalable and efficient brands. With the help of his global team, the companies have achieved over 10+ million in sales and received recognition through magazine features, and enjoy partnerships with wikiHow and Jobber field service software. Boston Magazine and LocalBest.com have named Best Handyman Boston the Best Handyman in Boston. Ryaan holds Construction Supervisor and Home Improvement Contractor Licenses. Ryaan Tuttle Ryaan Tuttle Home Improvement Specialist Expert Answer You can buy a plastic caulk removal tool from Home Depot or Lowe's. It helps you pull out the caulking. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 6 Helpful 6
See more answers Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement

Video

Tips

  • Press the release trigger after applying the caulk to prevent dripping.[20] Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
  • Some caulks may be better suited for your problem than others. Acrylic caulk is a versatile and popular option for caulk, but it can shrink when it dries. Silicone caulk forms a strong bond, but it can be expensive and is hard to paint over. A butyl rubber caulk is very mobile, so it works best near hinges or doors where the caulk's going to move often.[21] Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
  • Tape the caulk nozzle closed when you're finished to prevent it from drying out. Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 0
Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review! Advertisement

Things You’ll Need

  • Putty knife
  • Painter's tape
  • Rubbing alcohol
  • Bleach
  • Caulk
  • Caulking gun
  • Scissors
  • Piece of paper

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References

  1. ↑ Ryaan Tuttle. Home Improvement Specialist. Expert Interview
  2. ↑ Barry Zakar. Handyman. Expert Interview
  3. ↑ Ryaan Tuttle. Home Improvement Specialist. Expert Interview
  4. ↑ https://todayshomeowner.com/cleaning/guides/how-to-remove-silicone-caulk/
  5. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-remove-caulk/
  6. ↑ https://todayshomeowner.com/painting/guides/homeowners-guide-to-caulk/
  7. ↑ https://youtu.be/C3QmFIk3EPM?t=405
  8. ↑ https://todayshomeowner.com/painting/guides/homeowners-guide-to-caulk/
  9. ↑ Barry Zakar. Handyman. Expert Interview
More References (12)
  1. ↑ https://youtu.be/jufcpLs-Hkk?t=69
  2. ↑ https://youtu.be/61CSfFkQQbk?t=80
  3. ↑ https://todayshomeowner.com/painting/guides/homeowners-guide-to-caulk/
  4. ↑ Barry Zakar. Handyman. Expert Interview
  5. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-use-a-caulk-gun/
  6. ↑ https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/caulking
  7. ↑ Barry Zakar. Handyman. Expert Interview
  8. ↑ Barry Zakar. Handyman. Expert Interview
  9. ↑ Barry Zakar. Handyman. Expert Interview
  10. ↑ https://www.thisoldhouse.com/bathrooms/21015082/laying-down-a-perfect-bead
  11. ↑ https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/caulking
  12. ↑ https://www.thisoldhouse.com/bathrooms/21015082/laying-down-a-perfect-bead

About This Article

Ryaan Tuttle Co-authored by: Ryaan Tuttle Home Improvement Specialist This article was co-authored by Ryaan Tuttle and by wikiHow staff writer, Hunter Rising. Ryaan Tuttle is a Home Improvement Specialist and the CEO of Best Handyman, Inc. in Boston, Massachusetts. With over 17 years of experience, he specializes in building home service businesses, focusing on creating scalable and efficient brands. With the help of his global team, the companies have achieved over 10+ million in sales and received recognition through magazine features, and enjoy partnerships with wikiHow and Jobber field service software. Boston Magazine and LocalBest.com have named Best Handyman Boston the Best Handyman in Boston. Ryaan holds Construction Supervisor and Home Improvement Contractor Licenses. This article has been viewed 813,091 times. 11 votes - 78% Co-authors: 16 Updated: March 10, 2025 Views: 813,091 Categories: Featured Articles | Home Repairs Article SummaryX

To use a caulking gun, press the release trigger at the back of the gun, pull back the metal rod, and insert the caulk tube into the frame. Then, secure the tube by pushing the metal rod back into the frame. Next, cut off the tip of the tube, and position the nozzle at a 45 degree angle over the crack you want to seal. Finally, squeeze the trigger as you steadily move the nozzle along the crack. To learn more, including how to smooth over the caulk after applying it, read on. Did this summary help you?YesNo

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Reader Success Stories

  • Emily Rose

    Emily Rose

    Aug 12, 2016

    "Actually, as a widow of a handy man, I'm learning how to be a "handy woman." I knew how to caulk -..." more
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Did this article help you?

Yes No Did this article help you? Say thanks with a small tip. icon $1 $3 $5 Leave a Tip Support our mission to help everyone in the world learn how to do anything. Advertisement If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission.Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Ryaan Tuttle Co-authored by: Ryaan Tuttle Home Improvement Specialist 11 votes - 78% Click a star to vote Co-authors: 16 Updated: March 10, 2025 Views: 813,091 Emily Rose

Emily Rose

Aug 12, 2016

"Actually, as a widow of a handy man, I'm learning how to be a "handy woman." I knew how to caulk -..." more Teri Haynes

Teri Haynes

Jan 5, 2022

"I have never used a caulk gun before now. After reading your article, I felt like a pro! The instructions were..." more Anonymous

Anonymous

Nov 1, 2017

"Thank you so much! I'm glad I found your website - I couldn't figure out how to load the tube in the gun...." more Anonymous

Anonymous

Jun 22, 2017

"As a widow, I find all these articles very helpful and easy to use so I can DIY and not need a tradesman to do..." more Helen Dunsmuir

Helen Dunsmuir

Jul 10, 2018

"Not something I use every day; knew it was simple, but forgot how to load gun. Magic. Thank you." Share yours! More success stories Hide success stories

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