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Builder’s Tip: A Free Caulk-Finishing Tool That Works

My favorite caulk-finishing tool isn’t my finger. I didn’t pay for it. And I don't end up with gobs of caulk stuck to rags at the end of a job.

What is it? As shown in the accompanying drawing, I reworked a spent plastic caulk tube and turned it into a custom-made finishing tool that does the job. Here’s how I did it:

  • First, I cut the tube in half, split it up the middle and cut slots on both sides so I can interlock the split tube. 

  • Splitting the tube in half allows me to put a crease in the tube, which comes in handy for some caulk profiles.

  • You can clip the end of the tool to create a flat bevel finish ― or leave it round for a coved finish.


The interlocking flaps allow the tube to be opened for periodic cleaning.

— Vincent C. Pirrone, Sparks, Nev.

Tips & Techniques provided by Fine Homebuilding.
©2005 The Taunton Press

To request a reprint of this feature, e-mail Mary Lou von der Lancken at Fine Homebuilding.


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