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Using Household Caulk As An Adhesive

Caulks can be used as glues... sometimes

Household caulks, including silicone, acrylic latex and polyurethane, definitely qualify as waterproof glues.   They are very flexible, which makes them good for holding materials that may experience limited movement or bending... the same quality that makes them excellent for sealing joints and seams in showers, around windows, etc.

Be careful not to spread the caulk too thinly. Caulks are not designed to be used in very thin applications like wood glues, making them a poor choice for high quality woodworking.

Don't assume all caulks have good adhesive properties...

Some caulks are designed for just caulking and nothing else.  Always read the label to be sure!  If the product label does not say "adhesive caulk", it probably isn't!

Four of the most popular brands of adhesive caulks are DAP, Polyseamseal, Phenoseal, and GE Silicone.

Click HERE for more information about using caulk in tubs and showers.

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