Two Types of Caulking

LIVERMORE — When it comes to doing home maintenance, many homeowners mistakenly think all caulking is basically the same. In reality, there are two types of caulking, each of which has very different properties and applications. Interior caulking (typically an acrylic latex product) is used for sealing things like sinks, cabinets and flooring, while exterior caulking (typically a silicone product) is used for sealing things like exterior windows, siding, masonry and wood features.

Due to the specific properties of each type of caulking, it’s important to use the right product for the application you’re undertaking. For example, exterior caulking contains elements that make it better suited to withstand the elements, like UV inhibitors that reinforce it against sun damage. Meanwhile, unlike its exterior counterpart, interior caulking is paintable, which can be a crucial attribute when sealing things like cabinetry and flooring. In any case, prior to sealing an area inside or outside of your home, double-check that you’re using the correct product to prevent any issues.