How To Caulk The Kitchen Counter In A Proper Way

1. How to Caulk the Kitchen Counter in a ProperWay • The area where the kitchen counter meets the backsplash often needs to be caulked again, but you have to proceed in a systematic way to get good results. In most cases, it is better to utilize a caulking service to simplify the task and avoid causing more damage. However, it is possible to achieve good results if you proceed in the followingway: • Be sure to start by replacing the seal present between laminate surfaces. You need to do it at seams as well as at the area where your countertop and backsplashmeet. • Carefully remove any existing caulk. If there are any loose ends, simply pull them by hand. Another simple way to get rid of the existing caulk is to utilize any scraper – a narrow blade putty knife would also serve the purpose here. The use of a plastic scraper is usually advisable because it minimizes the risk of scratching your finished surfaces. Be careful when applying pressure because too much of it would damage thesurface. • Clean the surface thoroughly. For this, you can make use of any cleaning agent. Opt for something that can easily cut through soap without causing any damage to the surface finish. • Inspect and repair de-laminated areas. Sheets of material bonded to a base are called laminates, and the bond will become weak when you let the water seep under the laminate. You should inspect the area carefully and check for any down or up-turned edges. You should also look for air pockets or bubbles under the laminate. Give the affected area ample time to dry completely and use a paper towel to ensure that there is no moisture present. You may need to allow additional drying time in case you notice the paper towel is still dry. To repair the area, you can use contact cement – pay attention to the instructions on the container for proper use. Apply it as far as you can go under the laminate and move towards the edges. Use some wedges, weights, etc. to apply even pressure to the sheet. Leave itovernight. • Apply caulk after you have repaired the area. You should start by running a bead ofcaulk • – focus on the seam first. Ensure that you apply steady pressure to the triggerof your • caulk gun and maintain a steady speed as well. Keep in mind that covering an area greater than 3-4 feet is not a great idea. Once done, do not forget to 'tool' the bead – you can use the wedge tool for the task. You should keep the edge closest to the seam as thin as possible – it is okay to leave most of the caulk over the seam. Keep 'tooling' the caulk until you have achieved the desired results. Not being able to use it properly would produce less-than-perfect results. In case of confusion, you will be better off utilizing any professional caulking service. • Finally, you should be filling seams between those laminate sections. Press the sheets firmly after applying a thin bead. You may have to repeat the process a number of times to allow the caulk to permeate the spaceproperly. • Articles Source : http://www.investsign-home.com/how-to-caulk-the-kitchen-counter-in- a-proper-way/