Tooling Caulk

[Pack Rat]

After reading the post about caulk I came up with a question about tooling it.
The caulk I've always used I've taped off and used my finger dipped in dish soap
to smooth it out and remove the excess. If I use a polyurethane caulk should I use
mineral spirits instead of dish soap for a nice finished look?

 

[spike99250]

Soapy water in a spray bottle works for me.

 

[csp]

Soapy water isn't going to work on a polyurethane caulk.

Yes, use mineral spirits. I've found that it works better if you let it skin for just a couple of minutes before tooling.

 

[nh_yota]

Yes, letting it sit for a couple of minutes helps because it becomes a stiffer bead instead of a mushy mess when you try to tool it.

 

[rlitman]

I've had luck with naphtha on PU caulk. I prefer alcohol to soapy water on silicone caulk.

 

[Gerald O]

Here's how I've always done it: apply bead, and wipe off excess immediately with a dry finger for acrylic/latex/silicone, or a gloved finger for urethane (disposable gloves). No need to wet finger or tool it. I've never found that a wet finger helps.

If appearance counts and you want a perfectly straight edge, tape the edges first. Then remove tape immediately after smoothing the bead with your finger. This all works best if the bead has close to just the right amount in it.

 

[MagKarl]

I've been converted from a "finger" guy to a caulk radius tool fan. Only a couple bucks at HD and gives you a uniform radius with squeegee'd clean edges. Had it for years before trying it, I'm sold.