Caulk (Acrylic Filler)

Caulk – also commonly known as Flexible Acrylic Filler is usually packaged in either a squeezable tube or as a cartridge which requires a cartridge gun. It is a flexible filler which is easy to apply, which dries quickly and which can be overpainted in a very short time. Ideally it should be applied in one movement – not stop/start – but it isn’t vital when you are filling a gap. It is much more important if you are using a silicone sealant to provide a waterproof seal around a sink or bath for instance.

When the Acrylic Filler is applied you can use your finger to smooth it - but make sure your finger is wet otherwise it will drag the filler and give an uneven finish! A small bowl of water is handy to keep alongside you if you are doing a lot of filling.

You should also be aware that Flexible Acrylic Filler comes in colours other than white! If you are filling gaps between oak coloured skirting boards and the wall for instance use oak-coloured filler. Check your DIY store carefully as the white filler is usually much more prominent!

Filler will continue to exude from the nozzle even after you have released the gun handle – this is because of the built up pressure – so be careful where you put the gun after you have finished with it otherwise you may find sticky Flexible Acrylic Filler somewhere you don’t want it!