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 | 
