Choosing the wrong caulk type leads to premature failure, mold growth, and costly repairs. The right caulk depends on the substrate (what you're sealing), exposure conditions (wet, dry, exterior), and whether it needs to be painted. Select your application below for a personalized recommendation.
Find the Right Caulk
Recommended:
Caulk Types Comparison
| Type | Paintable | Waterproof | Best For | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 100% Silicone | No | Excellent | Showers, tubs, glass, metal | 20+ years |
| Siliconized Acrylic | Yes | Good | Exterior windows, trim, doors | 10-15 years |
| Latex / Acrylic | Yes | Fair | Baseboards, interior trim, drywall | 5-10 years |
| Polyurethane | Yes | Excellent | Concrete, masonry, exterior wood | 10-20 years |
| Butyl Rubber | No | Excellent | Roofing, gutters, flashing | 10+ years |
| High-Temp Silicone | No | Excellent | Fireplaces, furnaces, exhaust | Long |
How to Choose and Apply Caulk
The right caulk type makes the difference between a seal that lasts decades and one that fails in months. The three key questions are: What are you sealing? Will it get wet? Does it need to be painted?
Application Tips
Always clean and dry the surface thoroughly before caulking. Remove old caulk completely. Cut the tube at a 45-degree angle for better control. Use a caulk gun for consistent pressure. Smooth with a wet finger or caulk tool within 5 minutes of application. Allow full cure time (24-48 hours for most products, up to 7 days for silicone before water contact).
FAQ
Is this caulk selector free?
Yes, completely free with no signup required.
Is my data private?
Yes, everything runs locally in your browser.
What is the difference between silicone and latex caulk?
Silicone caulk is waterproof, highly flexible, and bonds well to non-porous surfaces like glass, metal, and tile. It is ideal for wet areas like showers and sinks but cannot be painted and requires a clean surface. Latex (acrylic) caulk is water-based, paintable, and easier to apply and clean up, but is less waterproof and less durable long-term in wet areas.
What caulk should I use in a shower?
Use 100% silicone caulk for shower surrounds, especially where tile meets the tub or shower floor. It is fully waterproof, mold-resistant, and extremely flexible. Avoid latex caulk in showers — it will deteriorate quickly with constant moisture exposure. Look for products specifically labeled 'kitchen and bath' or 'shower and tub.'
What caulk is best for exterior windows?
Polyurethane or siliconized acrylic (paintable silicone) caulk is ideal for exterior windows. It adheres to wood, vinyl, aluminum, and masonry, is paintable, and withstands temperature extremes. Avoid regular latex caulk for exterior applications as it cracks in freeze-thaw cycles.
Can I apply caulk over old caulk?
Generally, no. Old caulk should be removed for best adhesion and a clean finish. Applying new caulk over old caulk rarely bonds well and looks poor. Use a caulk remover tool, solvent, or scoring to remove old caulk before applying fresh product. Exception: if the old caulk is still firmly adhered and you are only filling a crack, a thin layer may work temporarily.