Which Exterior Caulk Hardens?

This list of caulk brands for home use includes acrylic latex, OSI Quad, polyurethane caulk, and silicone caulk. Acrylic Latex, also known as Painters Caulk, is a popular choice for exterior wood surfaces. Polyurethane caulk is hard and can become brittle in cold weather, leading to cracking. Silicone caulk is flexible and doesn’t harden or become brittle in cold weather. Latex concrete, silicone, polyurethane, and butyl rubber caulk are the best choices for mortar, brick, and rock surfaces. Wood may require different types of caulk.

Choosing the right exterior caulk can make a significant difference for your team, keeping customers happy, and establishing a great working relationship. This article discusses the selection and proper application of exterior caulks and sealants on buildings, including water and air. It also highlights common caulking mistakes that can result in poor or broken seals.

Thermoplastic caulking is recommended for windows, as it takes more abuse from sunlight. Silicone caulk is best for areas exposed to moisture or extreme temperatures, such as around windows, doors, and gutters. Polyurethane caulks have a gooey consistency and are difficult to control. They are the strongest but are messy to work with and take longer to dry before painting. Polyurethane caulks are ideal for driveways, trim, and driveways. Solar Seal is the best choice, although it is slightly stringier to work with. Some people may stick with quad in tricky areas due to its durability.