Applying sealant using a gun is a straightforward process that effectively fills gaps above skirting boards, preventing draughts and improving the finish of your room. Before you begin, ensure that the skirting board is fixed firmly and that any old caulk or debris is removed from the gap. Choose a sealant that matches your needs: a flexible, paintable sealant is typically recommended for skirting boards to accommodate any movement and allow for painting if desired.
When you are ready to apply the sealant, cut the nozzle of the sealant tube at a 45-degree angle, ensuring the opening is just wide enough for the size of the gap. Insert the tube into the sealant gun, and apply steady pressure to trigger the gun, drawing it along the gap smoothly to fill it with an even line of sealant. Use a dampened finger or a caulk-finishing tool to smooth the sealant, creating a clean, professional finish. Remember to work in small sections, as sealant begins to cure relatively quickly once exposed to air.
Understanding Sealant Guns
A sealant gun is an essential tool for applying a steady stream of sealant when filling gaps or sealing joints. Your control over the flow and the precision of your application are largely determined by how well you understand and manipulate your sealant gun.
Components and Mechanism
A sealant gun is comprised of three main components:
- Frame: This is the body of the gun and holds the sealant tube. Frames usually come in the form of a cradle or a half-barrel design.
- Trigger: Attached to a push rod, the trigger mechanism allows you to control the flow of sealant.
- Plunger: This is pushed forward by the trigger, which then dispenses sealant from the tube.
To operate the gun, you place the tube of sealant into the frame, cut the tip of the tube to the required size, then squeeze the trigger. This action pushes the plunger forward and forces the sealant out of the tube through the nozzle.
Types of Sealant
There are two primary types of sealant you can use with a sealant gun:
- Silicone Sealant: Flexible and waterproof, ideal for areas prone to moisture like bathrooms and kitchens.
- Acrylic Sealant: Best suited for gaps where minimal expansion or contraction occurs and is often paintable.
Remember to choose a sealant type that is compatible with the material of your skirting board and the conditions it will be exposed to.
Application Process
Using a sealant gun to fill the gap above your skirting board requires careful preparation and precise application to achieve a professional finish.
Preparation
Before you begin, ensure the area is clean and free from dust. If there is old caulk or sealant, remove it using a putty knife or a caulk remover tool. Wipe the surface with a damp cloth and let it dry completely. Next, select an appropriate sealant for your needs – typically, a paintable acrylic sealant is suitable for skirting boards. Cut the tip of the sealant tube at a 45-degree angle, ensuring the opening size matches the width of the gap you intend to fill.
Filling the Gap
Step 1: Place the tube of sealant into the sealant gun. Make sure it’s secured and ready to dispense.
Step 2: Position the tip of the gun at the start of the gap, holding the gun at a 45-degree angle for a smooth application.
- Begin to apply steady pressure to the trigger, and slowly drag the gun along the length of the gap.
- Aim for a continuous bead of sealant, ensuring it fully fills the gap.
Step 3: After applying the sealant, smooth it down with a dampened finger or a caulking tool. This will press the sealant into the gap and ensure a neat finish.
- Remove any excess sealant immediately with a damp cloth.
Allow the sealant to cure as per the manufacturer’s instructions before painting over it, if desired.
