Caulking guns for your home projects

A caulking gun can be used for multiple projects around the house. It can be used to create a barrier against water, dust, or pesky insects as caulk easily fills in gaps, seams, and joints around the home. When caulk hardens it creates an almost impenetrable barrier, which is exactly why it is so useful around the home, but applying caulk can be a tricky business, which is exactly why you need a caulking gun.

With a caulking gun you can put the caulk exactly where you need it without making a mess you need to clean up afterwards. At vidaXL, we offer a wide selection of caulking guns, and we are sure we have one that suits your needs as well.

Things to consider when choosing a caulking gun

Before we get too deep into factors, you need to consider when purchasing a caulking gun, let us take a quick look at what caulk is. Caulk is a latex or silicone sealant that usually comes in a cartridge or tube, and with a caulking gun you can be sure to put the caulk exactly where you want.

A caulking gun is simply a handheld device that dispenses the caulk in a precise manner. To load the gun, you simply pull back the plunger, and then you can fill the caulking gun with caulk, and it is ready to be used.

Types of caulking guns

Now that we have established what a caulking gun is, we can get into what you need to consider when purchasing your new caulking gun. First of all, you need to take a look at the different types of caulking guns on the market:

• Manual caulking guns. A manual caulking gun is very easy to use, and they are usually the most affordable types of caulking guns. They are great for smaller projects around the house.
• Electric caulking guns. Electric caulking guns have a cord, so it’s important to note that you need to be near a power outlet when using this type of caulking gun. The cord can sometimes get tangled, which is exactly why you may wish to opt for a battery-powered caulking gun.
• Battery-powered caulking gun. These ones also run off electricity, however, they are cordless and instead come with a rechargeable battery. This means you do not have to worry about being close to an outlet when working. However, if you are planning to do larger projects, you may need an extra battery.
• Pneumatic caulking guns. This type requires a compressor that generates enough air pressure to force the caulk out of the tube.

A caulking gun can be made of either plastic or metal, such as aluminium. Plastic caulking guns are usually cheaper than the ones made of metal. However, the metal ones are the most sturdy and durable. If you only need to use a caulking gun every once in a while, you most likely will be fine choosing one made of plastic.

Features to consider

There are also a few features you may wish to consider when buying a caulking gun. For instance, you can get dripless guns, which prevent caulk drips. Furthermore, the frame type can either be closed or open. Closed ones are typically heavy, whereas open ones are lighter.

You can also get a revolving frame. This type of gun is especially helpful around corners as you only need to rotate the frame as opposed to the entire gun. Lastly, ensure that you choose a caulking gun that has a handle that suits you.

Tips and tricks when using a caulking gun

Whether it is your first time using a caulking gun or you have used one several times, these tips and tricks will probably come in handy:

• If there is any old caulk, ensure that you remove it, before you use your gun. Usually, a knife or similar will be able to do the job of removing old caulk.
• Ensure that you prep the surrounding area beforehand by using painter’s tape on either side of the space. By doing so you minimise the risk of getting caulk in places where you do not want it.
• When pulling the trigger, it is best to angle the caulking gun at a 45-degree angle.
• Lastly, when you are done dispensing the caulk, smooth it over with a wet finger. This gives it a nice finish.

If you have any questions or need help choosing your new caulking gun or any other tool, feel free to contact our customer service, so we can assist you.