Caulking Compounds and Sealants

By Joint Coatings/Forest Products Committee; Caulks & Sealants Task Force

Caulking compounds (also called caulks) and sealants are used to fill gaps or holes in surfaces or seal joints between surfaces.¹ Compatibility with a given substrate, including adequate adhesion to the substrate, is an important consideration because two dissimilar surfaces may be involved. Caulk or sealant manufacturers or the substrate manufacturers (for example, a window manufacturer) may provide instructions about compatibility.

Sealants and caulking compounds are available in different chemistries (polyurethanes, silicones, acrylics, and modified acrylics, for example) and a range of qualities. Compliance with standard specifications ensures the quality of some of these products.