There’s more to a well-maintained home than just mopping the floors and taking out the trash.
One small but important detail is making sure your baseboards are in good shape.
A key part of keeping them looking sharp is caulking. But when should you caulk your baseboards, and why?
Let’s take a closer look…
When To Caulk Your Baseboard
The main reason to caulk your baseboards is to prevent drafts and moisture damage.
If you live in an older home, chances are the spaces between your floor and your baseboards are larger than they should be.
In that case, caulking is a must.
Even in newer homes, though, it’s not uncommon for caulk to crack or chip over time. That’s why regular maintenance is important.
Tips For Caulking Your Baseboard
Caulking isn’t difficult, but there are a few things to keep in mind if you’ve never done it before. First, make sure you choose the right type of caulk for the job.
If you’re dealing with gaps larger than 1/4 inch, you’ll need to use an expansion-type caulk like foam sealant. For smaller gaps, silicone or latex caulk will do the trick.
Next, cut the tip of the caulking tube at a 45-degree angle so that the hole is about 1/8 inch wide—any larger and the caulk will come out too fast; any smaller and it will come out too slow.
Apply even pressure as you move the caulking gun along the length of the gap, being careful not to leave any bare spots.
Once you’re done, clean up any excess caulk with a wet rag before it has a chance to dry. And that’s it! With just a little time and effort, you can make sure your baseboards are in tip-top shape for years to come.
So Should You Caulk Your Baseboards?
Yes, if you live in an older home, chances are the spaces between your floor and your baseboards are larger than they should be and in that case, caulking is a must.
Caulking your baseboards may seem like a small task, but it’s an important part of keeping your home in good condition.
By filling gaps and cracks, caulking prevents drafts and moisture damage.
Plus, it only takes a few minutes to do!
So next time you’re doing some spring cleaning or preparing for winter weather, don’t forget to add caulking your baseboards to your To Do list.
