How to Repair Caulk That Is Separating From the Wall & Baseboards

Old, dried caulk tends to separate from the space between an interior wall and the baseboard, over time. It happens more quickly if there is a large gap between the wall and baseboard, in which case the caulk pulls away from the two materials it is supposed to seal, pretty much immediately after it dries. Properly seal the gap between the baseboard and wall when you notice this happening.

Utility knife
Rag
Foam caulking cord
Caulk
Caulking gun
Paper towels
Sponge

Instructions

- 1
  Put on work gloves to protect your hands.
- 2
  Slice through the old baseboard caulk, and scrape it out, using a utility knife. Pull out the caulk with your hands. Work slowly, carefully moving along the length of the separated caulk to remove it.
- 3
  Scrape off any leftover caulk from the gap, using the utility knife. Wipe away any debris and dust, using a rag.
- 4
  Press foam caulking cord down into sections along the baseboard and wall joint where the gap is large.
- 5
  Cut off the plastic tip of a tube of caulk, using the utility knife. Avoid cutting off too much of the tip, or too much caulk will flow out when you apply it. Use a caulk that is a blend of acrylic and silicone. Install the tube into a caulking gun.
- 6
  Hold the caulking gun at between a 30 degree and 45 degree angle to the joint between the wall and baseboard. Squeeze the trigger, and slowly move along the joint, installing a continuous bead of caulk. Start at a corner and work to the other end.
- 7
  Wet your finger with water and glide it along the freshly-applied bead of caulk, smoothing it out. Wipe your finger on a paper towel, to prevent too much caulk from building up on it as you smooth the caulk.
- 8
  Dampen a sponge with water, and slide it gently and evenly along the bead of caulk, further smoothing it out.

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