Caulking Craftsmanship: Ensuring Every Seal Counts

Caulking plays a vital role in the exterior facade of any building, serving as a barrier against water and air, while also helping to prevent the growth of mold and mildew. Yet, the benefits of caulking are only realized when it's installed correctly; improper installation can be counterproductive and even damaging.

Our team recently undertook a project to remove and replace the control joint caulking of a sizeable commercial office building in Macon, Georgia. During the removal process, we discovered the subpar quality of the previous caulking job. The caulking was applied inconsistently - overly thick in some areas, uneven in others, and in several instances, it had cracked, highlighting the importance of professional expertise in caulking application.

The prior company responsible for the caulking work unfortunately applied excessive amounts and failed to adequately remove the old caulking in most areas. This oversight hindered the effectiveness of the caulking. Ideally, caulking should be applied so that it is wider than deep, enabling it to flex properly as the joint expands and contracts. Improper application can lead to the sealant cracking the substrate or detaching from the joint, compromising the water-tight integrity of the joint and, in the worst-case scenario, causing damage to the architectural panels.

Additionally, their choice to use low-cost urethane caulking necessitated an extensive and labor-intensive restoration process on our part, as we had to meticulously remove all remnants of the existing caulking before we could apply the new, superior silicone caulking.

The image above clearly illustrates the depth of the caulking we removed from the joints, extending a surprising 2.5 inches deep. In contrast, the image below, featuring an illustration from Dow Corning – the leading silicone caulking manufacturer in the US – demonstrates the correct and incorrect ways to apply a joint. It highlights that an ideal joint depth should range between ? inch to ? inch, a stark difference from the excessive 2.5 inches we encountered.

Our approach required a complete removal of the old caulking, necessitating a fresh start. We ground down the precast surface to expose a clean, new layer, setting the stage for the next steps. Carefully, we inserted the backer rod, followed by the application of fresh Dow Corning silicone caulking. Adhering to the manufacturer's guidelines, we used a slender bead of caulking, ensuring it was applied evenly and uniformly across the surface. The result is a rejuvenated caulking job that not only enhances the building's appearance but also effectively seals out water and air, significantly aiding in the prevention of mold and mildew.

When considering caulking replacement, it's crucial to select a trusted and experienced company like Presto Restoration. Properly executed, a quality caulking job can safeguard your building for 20 to 30 years. In contrast, substandard work might fail almost immediately. Interestingly, the previous company's inadequate caulking not only compromised quality but also resulted in excessive product expenses, likely due to a lack of skilled labor. Presto Restoration operates nationwide, offering expert exterior restoration and waterproofing services. Our specialization includes caulking replacement for high-rise buildings, comprehensive parking deck restoration, and the meticulous refinishing of various building surfaces, including glass, metal, and stone. For a detailed quote or to consult with a professional, contact us at 1-800-693-1228, fill out our Request A Quote Form, or send a direct message for personalized support.