Why Millions Get Silicone Caulk Wrong
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 6 มี.ค. 2024
- In this eye-opening video, we delve into the common misconception surrounding the application of silicone caulk. For years, millions have been misled into believing that using washing up liquid, dish soap, or window cleaner during the caulking process is essential for achieving a smooth finish. However, what many fail to realize is that this seemingly harmless practice can actually lead to long-term problems.
I reveal the truth behind the widespread practice of spraying solutions directly onto the silicone and tiles during caulking. While it may appear convenient, this method compromises the adhesive properties of the silicone. When tooled improperly, the edges and areas behind the silicone fail to adhere properly, paving the way for mold growth and premature deterioration.
But fear not! My video demonstrates a simple yet effective alternative. By eschewing the use of solutions and employing the appropriate tools, you can achieve flawless results that stand the test of time. Say goodbye to wrinkly, ineffective silicone caulk and join us in revolutionizing the way caulking is done. Watch now to discover why millions have been getting silicone caulk wrong all along.
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About me:
I'm Aiden and I'm documenting what was supposed to be my barn conversion, which has now ended up being a new build. I don't have a trade, I just have a go and I'll be doing lots of work myself. This is the boring bit in grand designs that you don't get to see. Subscribe and follow along to find out how our future home turns out.
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So does that mean if I spray my toilet with fairy liquid before I take a dump, I won’t end up with skids?
I wonder how many people will be tempted to try this...I'm gonna pin it 😆
@@THE-AIDEN-PROJECT Hahaha, joking aside that first bead is actually fairly typical of the bodge-it-and-scarper brigade these days.
@@Reuben17505 but it might not be a joke, it might actually be a genius idea. Bottle it up and sell it 🤣 Nomoreskids
@@THE-AIDEN-PROJECT 😂😂😂 Perhaps I should pitch the idea to Screwfix, when it launches I think it’s only fair they do a BOGOFF deal
@@Reuben17505 I might actually do a little vertical video for this, I'm gonna mock up a nonsense type label 🤣
Consider my eyes opened! I'd fallen for the washing up liquid method up to now. Perfect demo of how it really works.
The world needs more men like this.
Да это и так любому нормально думающему человеку должно быть понятно
Applying the bead of silicone is just as Important if want it even and uniform without it spreading everywhere . In my own home where I have unlimited time I sand down the silicone nozzle to the shape of the corner being sealed I then mask of the lines and apply silicone and smooth down with finger . Removing the tape leaves slight ridges so I then use the soap water method to smooth over a second time knowing almost all excess silicone was wiped off in first smooth over. Takes longer but the finish is unmatched and you know that it's bonded properly
This explains why i have never had silicone fail... but have had stuff others have put on just peel off in a long strip....
I've always pushed the nozzle along the gap instead of pulling, which sort of injects the silicone into the gap and doesn't leave a rounded bead. So much less waste when you pass your finger along. I'm only a DIYer and probably don't know what I'm talking about, but it works for me
na 💯 bro you nailed it
100% correct. A professional cuts the nozzle back to a larger diameter and then pushes it along the joint. No need for fingers, liquids or tools if done this way.
Never use your finger. Oils allow bacteria to form = mould; use tools whenever possible. However, if DIYing it you probably don't want to go to the expense of buying tools.
@@armoris66 good point, but I actually always wrap my finger in a wet wipe (plus, my dirty little digits have more than oil on them!!)
After 35 years doing kitchens and bathroom renovations that's the best method in my opinion. Cut the nozzle flat, not on an angle and push.
I’m a bathroom installer, mostly showers. We never use soapy water at all, for the reasons in the video.
Plus those green tools are my favourite, just the right shape and rigidity.
Great video.
Bought a profiling kit a few years back and use it all the time, have never used detergent and get superb results everytime
Perfect video, well done my friend
That's the way it's done 🙌
I always thought this was a bad idea. Thanks for confirming.
Been doing it for years without spraying anything, never had a call back. 👍
Met a guy 30yrs ago and all he ever did all day was silicone kitchens after they were fitted and he showed me to just dip/dab a finger in part water part washing up liquid in a wee glass then finish off your silicone bead with that finger. Also it helps to cut the silicone nozzle correctly and apply evenly. Practice makes perfect
yeah i know that trick too... also my dad and grandpa used to do with finger and saliva
Spraying the tools is a golden nugget of information 👍
All of the UK needs to see your video. Every hotel where I’ve stayed in the UK even 5 stars in the center of London, it looks like they apply the caulk by shooting it from a meter away, smearing it liberally over the 5 layers that were already there.
Not to mention painting over outlets, light switches, door hardware, splattering it over the carpet….
That's not all of the UK. That's just diyers and plumbers 😂 got sink fitted last year asked plumber to leave silicone off and I'd do it behind the taps. His face looked shocked when packing up his tools as I walked in and started rubbing off the mess of a silicone job he done lol he had cheek yo ask me if something was wrong , I replied yes it looks like you've used your elbow to smooth this over lol
I'm an electrician . People always upset when you have to change a switch or socket and when take the old one off take all the paint around the edges off with it too lol not my fault the paint iver the edges of it . Also see a lot of light switches with an X scored over it . That's the stanley knife cutting out the wallpaper on top of it 😅
@@christophergallagher3845 well, I don't think diy'ers are doing 5 star hotel rooms... and plumbers don't paint walls and doors... Maybe it's something to do with the UK hotel business... but I've seen the same stuff in homes and apartments...
I've done construction, so I know what "good enough for government work" means... but I've never seen as much terrible work as I have in the UK... honest, not trying to be a jerk, just honestly....
@@PRH123 mate I don't like London I'm from Scotland the fact you're roasting London does not upset me it makes me smile lol I was mostly talking about the silicone work when I mentioned plumbers . Half the "tradesmen" in London are DiYers lol its why people from around the UK go work there for higher wages through the week then go home at weekends
@@PRH123 what 5 star hotel in London where you in that had bad silicone 5 layers deep ? Curious , not that I'd pay for 5 stars there anyway lol
Brilliant! The first time i did it, i should have covered myself in washing up liquid! My new grout, done by the "builders " last summer , is already mouldy. I'll make that tool. Thanks.
Excellent demonstration. I’ve been a tile guy 20 years, started using soap water only in the last several, on account of Sal Di Blasi. I must adjust my technique, I’m certain to have some poor caulk out there.
The challenge is with lumpy tiles, uneven stone, and cushion edged mosaic tiles. I can’t get a tool to work, finger finish is always required. Spray prevents spreading and smearing.
Exactly he didn't have a grout line to deal with or bumpy tiles
I mostly tackle bumpy tiles by using the silicone tool in both directions and maybe adjusting angle. Not perfect, but better than one pass.
I always informed customers that silicone bead will follow bumpy tiles and ridges
Thank you! I've got a caulk job that I need to undertake tomorrow, which I'm not going to lie is well outside of my regular wheelhouse, and I've been watching other so-called pro tutorial video clips make all of the recommendations mentioned here what not to do. But I said to myself, "OK, I think I got this, buuuuutttttt.... Let's just have a look here a this one last video and confirm the process!" And thank God that I found this video in time! I would surely have sprayed after caulking and left a mess on a time-sensitive job that I won't be able to repair later! Thank you for the leg up and major time saver!
Gees. Now I know why my tub window has mold everywhere. Thanks for sharing!
Excellent explanation of how to do the job properly.
Thank you for the tip mate, I'm getting ready to redo the Caulking in my Kitchen and Bathroom and this video has shown me what to do and what not to do, but the video has also revealed to me why the Caulking that's there already has been so slippery and broken down and useless
You're absolutely right mate. I used the dish soap method and after a month or so the silicone detached itself from the sink.
Great demo - I've never used washing up liquid for this - didn't even know it was a thing. Best discovery I made was using the profiling tool rather than just the finger to stop it going concave. Got silicon round the bath that's been there for years and apart from a clean with some anti mould stuff every year or two, it's still good as new and no gaps. Love these practical little videos Aiden, thanks for taking the time to do them.
Well if you never knew it was a thing you've done well 😁
I can listen to this guy explain anything Good job thank you
Great video on this subject.First person I have seen do it properly
I have been doing it this way for years I never understood why people used the diluted washing up liquid and water.First time seeing your videos 👍just subscribed
Love this video, especially the fact that his sound is superb.
Thanks Gerry 🙂
I'm always surprised how many videos show people spraying washing up liquid all over the place like you showed at the start.
It's misinformation I tell ya 🤣
Very similar to food & drinks commercials. None of what you see in those ads is safe for eating or drinking
Oh gawd…. I fell for the soap trick and have siliconed shower and bathroom. Eyes opened! Going to dig it all out and redo it…. Sometime! Cheers for the vid!
Finally! Awesome video my friend. Cheers from Holland.
Oh, I understand now why I don't have those mold problem in my shower after 10 years (the silicon is still perfectly white) because I did it myself and used the same kind of tools as you and didn't use soap. A good ventilation in my shower helped too I guess.
Yeah ,ive never regretted getting the silcone tools they really take the stress out of siliconing.
Excellent video and explanation!
Really well presented and great information
Corking tip!
Always done it this way with Dow Corning 785 and it lasts many years.
Werent that long ago a tube of it was 4 quid and now its a tenner.
Dow seems to have a good reputation
I saw it for £12.90 yesterday. 😖
I always use Dow. If customers present me with their own Brand X... I give it back and get the Dow out.😂
Did you mean caulking tip? ;)
@@jason-hh6luwas it 30% Extra Free? 😂
Thank you! Finally someone who agrees. I’ve been told for years I was doing it wrong. As a plumber, I need the best seal that lasts and doesn’t leak. Not one that is easy and fast to install then peals off and leaks years later. I still make it look nice. It just takes a little longer.
🙌 it's just not logical to use it hey
I agree completely, just use the right tools and you can't go wrong. Icypole sticks are great for striking off caulking too.
Excellent video, I had a silicon failure in my shower in less than a year doing it with soapy water.
😬
I am a window fitter & was shown on site by the mastic guys they use the wood tool and let it soak in the soapy water. I was also told you should ALWAYS tool the joint this adds to the adhesion so tool it at 45 degrees which also pushes it into the joint further , I have also found cheap silicone is rubbish & a nightmare it’s just too runny
Use Soudal and wooden spatulas like the doctor uses.
FINALLY someone with a video showing this. Especially with the tooling kits, they do a very good job removing the excess cleanly. Soapy water jsut makes the overall cleaning up easier as the excess isnt sticky but the joint will be compromised at the edges. Good job posting this!
Thank you so much. Now I know why the soapy method was bothering me so much. Better live with an ugly line than with a molding one
Daaaaaamn, Man, you explained my hate for caulk in about 5 minutes. I'll do as you say next time.
I personally finished the silicone without soap fist, for that good adhesion indeed, and then used the soap water for a finishing touch. I hope that’s fine. Thanks for pointing out these potential issues
To be honest I'd never even heard of spraying the tiles with water and washing up liquid as a thing. It seems completely counter intuitive to me. You want a clean, dry, dust free surface for the silicone to stick to so why you'd then want to put water anywhere near it until it's dry is beyond me. Great video though, as always.
It is pure craziness 😆 I'm surprised a couple of people are standing by the technique in the comments 🤷
My wife swears by the wet finger method, hits the right spot and does a good job every time.
😆
LOL😆😆
Make sure to have a clean finger and go steady with the amount of pressure. I've seen lads wetting it with their tongue beforehand. I agree with you and your wife, a finger will usually give a good satisfactory result.
lol I’m a caulker and this video is hilarious, none of you know what your talking about, no offence , but it’s good cis it keeps me employed
I' learned this about 20 years ago and it works great, the only difference is I put the dish soapon my finger and then spread it out ask needed,
Good video, thank you for more info for us
Preach Brother. Great job!
That’s right. I’ve always wondered if they achieve a water tight seal when squirting all that soap and water where you need the silicone to stick too. You explained it well.😊
Super glue adheres to a substrate sprayed with water too
Very reasonable! Thank you for sharing!
thats good for high polish tiles with the matte or structure one it will be difficult to remove excess in that clean way without soap...
About time, well said 👏
Good video Aidan. I use the Screwfix silicone tooling - which has upped my game. Isn’t it funny though no matter how careful you are there is always a significant amount of waste scraped off the tool into the bin.
Haha I think if we did it more often then you can judge how much to lay down without having too much wastage
Sorry if this is redundant, but I made the mistake of using an expired tube of silicone sealant. I had no idea that silicone has a finite shelf life. It was printed on the tube but I didn’t bother to look. Not only would it not skin, but it would not set up at all. I have to scrape it all out and get a new tube that had not expired.
Ah that sounds like a right pain
very interesting, i have used all methods, never happy with the results. Cheers Aiden.
You'll get it one day 😉
Excellent bro!!!
Awesome ! Perfect explanation keep posting liked and subscribed on principle!! Perfect
explains everything. if only i had a time machine
Perfectly timed video for my siliconing ! 😎
I'm sure you're an accomplished silicone applier 😁 looks like I missed some of your uploads, I'll have to check them out
Brilliant! Thank you so much.
You're very welcome!
I watched a fellow plumber do the soap method last year in a new bathroom, he was so happy with how neat it looked. I had to go back there about a month ago and completely remove it all. It came off in strips, barely stuck anywhere. It's crazy how many people think it's a good idea.
Sure you did
Subbed on the strength of that. Well done you!
Much appreciated!
I was a kitchen and bathroom fitter all of my working life. I've never used soap. I used to tape everything then cut the finger off a latex glove to smooth with my finger. It takes a little longer but it's a brilliant Finnish. I'm really liking these silicone tools. I ordered a set the other day from Amazon .Great video ✌️
Isn't the purpose of the glove to avoid getting it on you? Why would you cut a finger off of it? Better not to waste the glove in the first place.
@@edeaglehouse2221 I only smooth with 1 finger. 1 glove gives me 5 clean fingers. I'm not in the habit of getting it all over my hands and the latex leaves a very nice finish.
Using a finger or lolly stick gives you a concave finish, this leaves extremely thin weak areas , the bead should be finished flat to ensure the strongest bond.
@@sijcalv I've never had a problem or any call back. Obviously I don't press my finger as hard as I can and my fingers are quite large.
@@tonywharton5220 We would never allow anything but a tooled flat finish, taping takes too long and is not required by competent sealant applicators.
Popsicle hobby sticks & grout sponges cut into points are awesome disposable tooling implements.
Nicely done!!!!!!❤
Good on you for this how not to how to video.
I think that you've got a job for life now, making "NO! NOT LIKE THAT YOU NUMPTY!" videos and I'm delighted to have found you.
The number of times I've shouted at the screen when watching these self appointed experts is finally coming to an end, I hope, because of you.
In regards to silicone sealing, I can happily carry on using a wet finger. Just have to remember not to put the same one back in my mouth...
Thank you for busting this myth!!!
Thank you!!! it is the way to do it.
Quality info👍👍
I used to just wet my finger with soapy water for the final finish. That seemed to work fine. Won't even be doing that from now on. Thanks for showing us.
You can just use water, but soapy water isn't worth the risk I don't think
Water on your finger prevents the caulk from sticking to your finger. What you don't want is water on what you're caulking. You want it to stick there.
That's what I've always done or spray it on the tool not the surface I'm going to caulk I would think it would be obvious you want it to be a clean dry surface
@@richardstetson8221 I did my 2 master bath sinks today. Had to gently smooth with a soapy finger (mild / dab in a full spray bottle. Not sprayed directly) a few spots that didn't tool cleanly, but I got a spot or 2 wet ahead of me caulking. Didn't stick at first tried to brute force it I guess wanting to get the job done. Carefully dabbed with paper towel it stuck then I tooled it. Am I going to have adhesion issues where a little mild soap water / residue could have been between counter and porcelain?
It's maybe two 1" spots but enough to irritate me. Caulk was injected well and completely filled, tooled not concave. Will the silicone caulking absorb some part of that or nullify it & adhere? Water dries and silicone adheres? Since it's not exposed to air to dry while it's wet? Thoughts? 🤣I'm experienced but no pro.
Partly agree...
There are infinite ways of doing this.
*Using only fiber or rubber leaves thin marks on sides of gap, after some time they become visible...
Using painters tape for limiting side marks leaves you with thicker sides of bead + you have to plan order of tape removal etc
*Using soap liquid is nice if you can apply the silicone very precise and not leave uncovered spots
Any of methods is self challenging and has + and - 😅
I tried the washing up liquid method one time and had to re do it ALL!!
proper useful video dude
I use mineral turps to clean my joint, tools and finish the silicon with a profit tool. Mineral turps allows you to top up an area.
Mate, you are 110% correct.
Wasn't stuck at the far end, but you moved the camera to the other end 🤣
😉 I always do a 2nd pass in real life though 😁
Good video bro, don't listen to negative comments. Originally from Scotland I've lived in Canada since I was 17. You are spot on with explanation of how not to finish a caulk joint. Carpenter all my working life, never used "fairy liquid"😅
Top video! If you read the manufacturer instructions or the building codes themselves, NO WHERE do they mention spraying the sealant or using anything other than a tool to force it into the joint at the right size. In the old days they would lick their finger, but don't do that either, please, lol!
Good stuff thank you
Great job including the image of the side view showing how that microfilm is on the back wall. I like to use painters tape on both sides of the caulk line. Cleaner lines. I gave up on silicone many years ago due its high failure rate. Nobody give two shits but I use an adhesive caulk (no silicone in it). Water cleanup. Tough as nails. Years of mold resistance.
Living life on the edge hey 😁
I don't know why people think that silicon is glue, but it is not its only good as a gap filler, but a very good video, perhaps you should do a video on how sticky silicon is or not.
i had no idea people were spraying their caulk! who's stupid idea was this? i have been caulking for over 50yrs and have never heard of this.
Probably every second TH-camr spray their caulk.😂
The main reason for peling silicone is because everyone just buys the cheaper acetoxy silicone. Spend a little more and get low modulus neutral cure silicone. Its thicker, easier to tool and will last much longer. Cheaper 'general purpose' silicones are not fit for purpose and a total waste of time. If it smells like vinegar, you got the wrong stuff.
As a 20 year decorator, i never use washing up liquid when applying mastic or caulk, a bit of spit on my finger is perfect.
Your finger is a source for bacteria and most likely help mould growth on the silicone especially if it's in a bathroom
I bet the customer loves that in the kitchen 😂🤦🏼♂️
@@johonass You don't let them see you do it 😉
A great tool to use is a piece of electrical conduit pipe sawn off at an angle. It collects the excess silicone in the tube and works like a charm. Spray the tube if you want, particularly the inside of the pipe.
Sounds interesting 🤔
So do you push the tool into the bead? Instead of pulling along the bead? Im assuming that's what you mean in order to collect the excess inside it
I'll try that, thanks!
Here is an example on how to use the pipe th-cam.com/video/mpqOMajoJkQ/w-d-xo.htmlsi=ZbQV0kLVOYSOdy6b
Finally someone explains it correctly.
I'm a decorator and I'm forever having to re-do the silicone around bathrooms which (I'm assuming) have been done using this method by 'professionals'.
I've seen kitchen fitters walk away _as_ the bead they've applied to the worktop is sinking down the back of the gap (that was Howdens).
I have a whole bathroom to do next week _because_ all the silicone has failed
I have standing customers and none of _my_ silicone has ever caused me, or them, any grief.
Have fun next week 😁👍
I've never ever used any spray before. Never thought about it tbh
That's a good thing 👍
Top man 👍
I had an argument with my colleagues for so much time because this was the reason why the silicone was getting into trouble after a short time they said I was crazy but I knew it since I saw the difference now is confirmed.
Excellent 👍, including the humour 😉
Glad you enjoyed it
I’ve done so many both rooms and kitchens I can’t count em, never sprayed anything to smooth out my bead, hell after a few years I learned how to cut the tip and hold it right to where most the time I don’t even have to wipe it, I apply it right the first time lol.
Top video 👍👍👍
Great video buddy 👍
Thanks 👍
Great video bruv never again will I use the (I DON'T WORK ) washing up liquid trick. 😂😂 thanks buddy.
- apply silicon correctly & slightly thicker then your tool tip is
- spray (there’s no issue with it if silicone is applied properly)
- spray your toll & carry on… dress it nicely
No, it is not easy for the beginners… as a lot of different things is no so easy when you’re just starting.
25+ years doing that way, no issues at all… but apply it properly.
thanks
Very nice instruction, as I was using the dish soap method myself as well. Perhaps laying a nice line of silicone tells you it's a nice result when first looking at it, but the closeup tells a different story. Thanks for this demo!
How do you feel about using the method with the masking tape? Do you think that will also result in the same problem with some gaps and caulk lifting off?
As I'm not on expert in caulking, I think this method helps me to get nicer and straighter results. Or it's just a lack of practice in laying a good bead of caulk?
There are quite a few people out there that suggest that using tape is also a bad idea. I wouldn't say it necessarily would give you the same problems but personally I don't like that it gives you a lip on the side so I would never do it where it would be seen regularly like in a bathroom. Thinking about it there may also be the chance the side would lift slightly when you take the tape off. I can totally understand why tape is used, I use it round the frames externally of windows and doors. But that's only because it's difficult for me to judge how much silicone I need to use to fill the larger gap over the backer rod. In bathrooms I'm much better at judging how much to lay down for the bead. So I suppose it just comes down to practice and experience
Has anyone done the spray bottle with denatured alcohol? I’ve done a couple baths now using this method and it’s worked pretty well. The alcohol evaporates pretty quickly, so if you do get some behind the silicone it seems to disappear pretty quickly and doesn’t leave a soapy residue or anything behind it. Haven’t had any problems so far..
I can see how taping in some tricky spots would help, but the issue I always notice that no one seems to mention is that the tape usually leaves a slightly lifted lip on the silicone when it gets pulled up.
I might try on the kitchen counter/backsplash I’m working on.. tape, tool, pull tape, light mist of denatured alcohol, then smooth down the edges. Would love any advice! Cheers!
I always let the silicone begin to go off before I touch it. Dip my finger or smoothing tool in water with a minute drop of washing up liquid in it which helps prevent the silicone from sticking to my finger. Works a treat. I've never sprayed anything as it is far too much liquid!
Immediately when I first encountered this idea long ago, I questioned it because that issue entered my mind. I wouldn't wet any part of it ever in case the water/soap, basically a foreign substance/contamination, ever got to the surface before the silicone etc did. Just like the common sense of cleaning/drying a surface before applying paint or an adhesive, why would I want water/soap in there blocking adhesion? How on earth did this method get popular despite the obvious issue to foresee with it?
Yeah, learned the hard way, and I've been at this for 40 years, lol. Saw a few videos of "experts" shooting the bead with Windex. Thought, huh, that's an interesting trick, I'll give it a go.
The washing up spray method is ok but can leave flappy edges, plus, getting sealant wet while it’s in a liquid state can introduce bacteria to the surface making the sealant discolour, as I had to do mastic work professionally I moved on to a “Cramer Fugi Kit” these are professional sealant tools that give a much better finish as the job is kept dry, they also have a brilliantly simple attachment to stop the dents you get in the finish when the smoothing tool drops into the grout lines, this kit is not easy to use and will, (like every skill) require practice.
Having learned how to use these kits you will look forward to mastic work instead of dreading it.
Nice video, keep it up
Thanks mate U can park there if U want
As a total amateur, it never occurred to me to spray washing up liquid etc..
On the rare occasions I did such a job I usually used my fingertip and ensured it went only where I wanted it.