Have you purchased a property that comes with crown molding? Are you in the process of a home remodeling project, and are wondering whether you should caulk your crown molding? Regardless of how well-installed your crown molding is, it’s always a good idea to caulk both the top and bottom. This is the best way to ensure a uniform look and get rid of any unsightly gaps that may be present.
Read on to find out how you can caulk crown molding.
Why Do Gaps Form in Crown Molding?
There are a number of reasons gaps can form in crown molding, despite how professionally the job has been done. Below are the main reasons explained:
- Changes in Temperature
You may already know that the walls and floors of your home shrink in cold weather and expand in hot weather. The same applies to the area around crown molding, which is why you may notice that the gaps are the most significant during winter.
- Limitations in Construction Materials
There are a few different components that make up crown molding. This includes the drywall, the studs, and other framing materials. Naturally, it can be challenging to line up lumber along the length of the whole wall, which can result in a line that is less than perfect. Although this imperfection is for the most part invisible, it can result in the appearance of tiny gaps.
How to Caulk Crown Molding
The best way to caulk crown molding is to use a caulking gun, a wet rag, and your finger. When cutting the tip of your caulking gun, you will want to aim for a 45-degree angle. If you are afraid of cutting off too much at once, start by cutting off just a tiny bit and then slowly cutting more. If there are several large gaps in your crown molding, you may wish to cut the tip larger.
Once you are done, position the tip of the caulking gun against the wall joint of your crown molding. As you move along the joint, make sure to apply a consistent amount of pressure so that the caulk will come out evenly. If the gaps are small, you can move relatively quickly but if there’s a large gap, try to move at a slower pace.