Are you looking for a quick and easy way to stop drafts coming through cracks under a window? How about sealing openings and gaps to keep out pesky insects? The answer might just be rope caulk – sometimes called caulking cord. It is a type of caulking sold in a long, thin, round form to suit particular applications.
Come learn about the uses rope caulk and how it is applied. This article also covers some of the benefits of using rope caulk. You will also find answers to questions often asked about this type of sealant. Find out: “Does rope caulk harden?” and “Is rope caulk removable?” Read on!
Table of Contents
What Is Rope Caulk Used For?
Rope caulk seals cracks, joints, openings, and gaps. Like other forms of caulking, it has a fair amount of plasticity. This allows it to deform and fit snuggly into spaces that need sealing.
Areas rope caulk is used in include:
- Windows
- Doors
- Window air conditioners
- Baseboards
- Siding
- Screens
- Pipes
- Garage doors
- Boats
- Automobiles
Rope caulk is quite versatile and adheres to different types of surfaces. It can be used on metal, wood, or concrete walls or floors. High-quality rope caulk is also waterproof and mildew-resistant. Two examples are Daoseal’s Caulking Cord and Frost King’s Fingertip Rope Caulk. You can use them around shower doors and other areas frequently exposed to water.
Does Rope Caulk Harden?
Rope caulk is both pliable and reusable. It should remain that way long after it has been installed. It should also remain flexible after long-term storage. Some options are designed to be highly non-drying. These include Fingertip Rope Caulk and Daoseal’s Caulking Cord.
One issue you might have with rope caulk, however, is it becomes stiffer in colder weather. That may cause it to not stick as well. It also might not fill in spaces as well as it should.
An easy way around this is warming the surface first. You can do this with a heat gun on a low setting. Aim at the surface and wave the heat gun around so it is not focused on one area for a long period of time. This ensures paint or any other surface covering will not get damaged.
Another option is warming the rope caulk itself. Simply warm a stone or metal surface and place the rope caulk on it for a few minutes. Either of these methods should make the caulk flexible enough to do the job.
Does Rope Caulking Work?
Rope caulk helps stop the exchange of air between your home and outside. This is true whether you are warming your home in the winter or cooling it down in the summer. You will use your air conditioning less to maintain the desired temperature.
Source: Pixabay
Customized rope caulk is available
You may be able to dictate the colour and size of your caulking cord, In General, Rope caulk and the Backer rod has the following size which is more popular:
size:1/8 in W X 90 Ft L, Gray
Size: 3/16″ W X 30Ft L, Grey
Depending on the company you purchase from. The rope caulk’s composition and level of fire-resistance may also be customizable. You may even have some control over its voltage-resistance and insulating ability.
Bugs are kept out
Roaches and other bugs will not be able to get past the seal of the rope caulk. This means fewer worries for you and your family. You won’t have to encounter them or use possibly harmful chemicals to kill them.
Non-permanent change to your home
Renters, in particular, should see this as one of rope caulk’s best advantages. It is a way to fix up your home without making any lasting changes to it. Renters are able to stay within their rent agreement and avoid conflict with their landlord.
Is Rope Caulk Removable?
Rope caulk usually peels away from a surface just as easily as it was applied. Its flexibility is not usually affected by the length of time it has been in place.
There are a few instances, however, when pieces of the rope caulk may remain stuck in place. You can remove these with rubbing alcohol. Wet a cloth with the rubbing alcohol and wipe the caulk until it all comes off.
How is Rope Caulk Used?
Applying rope caulk is meant to be a simple procedure. No special tools or skill set are needed. Daoseal’s rope caulk, for example, is self-adhesive. There is no need for glues or tapes to stick it to the surface. All you really need is a knife. You might also need caulk saver, depending on the space you are filling.
Here’s how to use rope caulk in a few easy steps.
1. Clean the area.
The rope caulk sticks better and seals better if it is applied to a clean surface. Clean around a window by first opening the window completely. You may need to use a window prop to keep the window open while you clean it.
2. Lock the window.
Check that all loose dirt and debris are removed from around the window. Take out the window prop and lock the window.
3. Decide whether you need caulk saver.
If you do, insert it into the gap now.
4. Decide how many sections of rope caulk you need.
Rope caulk is usually sold in rolls made up of six or more sections (beads) of caulking. Some cracks need just one bead of rope caulk. Some might call for using two or more beads. In these areas, it is a good idea to use caulk saver in the space first.
5. Pull a length of rope caulk from the roll.
Detach the required number of beads from the roll and pull off a reasonable length. Keep both hands free by placing the roll on a level surface. This also ensures your rope caulk does not roll away.
6. Forcefully press the rope caulk into the crack.
Do this as you work your way around the window. You can pull more of the rope caulk from the roll as needed. You may need to go around the window more than once to seal large gaps.
7. Cut the rope caulk from the rope.
Once the job is complete and the rope caulk is properly installed, push against it with the blade of the knife. This should cut it cleanly from the roll. Resist pulling it apart with your fingers. It will stretch, leaving that section of the caulking cord with a smaller diameter. This might result in the rope caulk being more difficult to use on the next job.
Bottom line: Is Rope caulk easy and effective to use?
Rope caulk or caulking cord is a very good option for sealing over cracks ad gaps. It is easy to use and any used portions can be removed and reused if desired. It is both user-friendly and effective. Plus, companies like Daoseal will even customize your rope caulk. You get to choose the colour, size, and other properties to suit your particular needs.
