Caulked

Caulked refers to joints or seams that have been sealed with caulk, a flexible sealant used to fill gaps and prevent water, air, dust, or sound from passing through. The term can describe both the act of applying the sealant and the resulting protected joint. Caulked joints are common in building construction, home remodeling, and marine applications, and are used around windows and doors, sinks and tubs, baseboards, exterior siding, concrete joints, and other areas where materials meet and movement occurs.

Caulk comes in several formulations, each with different properties. Silicone caulk is highly durable, waterproof, and UV resistant, making it a common choice for exterior and bathroom applications; it tends to be flexible and long-lasting but is often not paintable. Acrylic latex (water-based) caulk is easier to apply, inexpensive, and paintable, making it popular for interior work and for surfaces that may require repainting. Polyurethane caulk offers strong adhesion and durability for exterior joints and high-mumidity areas, but it can be more difficult to apply and remove, and often requires priming or solvents. Some caulks are “neutral cure,” emitting fewer odors and working better on non-porous surfaces, while others are acetoxy cure, which release acetic acid (vinegar-like smell) as they cure.

Application typically involves cleaning and drying the joint, removing old caulk, applying a smooth bead with a caulking gun, and tooling the bead with a finger or tool to seal and shape it. Curing times vary by product and conditions, ranging from about 24 hours for latex to several days for silicone or polyurethane. Proper substrate preparation and selecting the right caulk for the surface and environment are key to long-lasting, effective caulked joints.