Should You Caulk Before or After Painting?

At VanHousing Painters, we often get asked whether to caulk before or after painting. Here’s what you need to know:

Why Caulking is Important

Caulking seals gaps and cracks, preventing water and air from entering your home, which helps avoid moisture damage and improves energy efficiency.

When to Caulk

• Before Painting: If the caulk line will be visible, such as around windows, doors, and baseboards.

• After Painting: If the caulk line will be hidden by trim or molding.

Choosing the Right Caulk

Select the caulk based on the material and paint compatibility. For example, silicone caulk is ideal for bathrooms and kitchens due to its waterproof properties.

How to Caulk

1. Clean the surface.

2. Apply caulk smoothly using a caulk gun.

3. Smooth the caulk with your finger or a putty knife.

4. Allow it to dry before painting.

Proper caulking ensures a seamless finish and prolongs the life of your paint job.

For professional results and a flawless finish, contact VanHousing Painters today!