| Caulk Failures: Loss of caulk's initial adhesion
and flexibility, causing it to crack and/or pull away from the surfaces to
which it is applied.
Possible Cause:
Use of lower quality caulk.
Use of wrong type of caulk for particular application (e.g., using latex or
vinyl caulk in areas where there is prolonged contact with water or
considerable movement of the caulked surfaces).
Solution: Use a top quality water-based all-acrylic or siliconized
acrylic caulk if prolonged contact with water is not anticipated. These caulks
are flexible enough to adapt to minor fluctuations in the substrate, stretching
in gaps that widen slightly over time. They also adhere to a wide range of
interior building materials, including wood, ceramic tile, concrete, glass,
plaster, bare aluminum, brick and plastic even in areas where moisture
is present. Note: Silicone caulk should not be painted.
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