Easily Clean Your Caulking Gun With The Help Of A Popular Household Staple

Don't let a gunked-up caulk gun ruin your home improvement projects. Caulking can be a little messy, but there are some game-changing caulking gun tricks that can help with drips and mess, including relieving pressure on the trigger between caulking sessions and puncturing the bottom of the caulk tube. Over time, it's still possible for caulk residue to harden and clog the nozzle or accumulate on the plunger, making an even application seemingly impossible. However, WD-40 is the household staple you can use to easily clean your caulk gun and get it back in working order. 

While WD-40 doesn't break down the residue and it's not foolproof, it might make it easier to peel off and prevent future buildup on the gun. Regular cleaning and maintenance will prevent damage to the caulk gun mechanisms and keep everything working smoothly. In addition to the WD-40, you'll need some paper towels or a rag to help remove residue. When using a caulking gun, it's generally a good idea to have a towel nearby for cleanup anyway, as dripping can be common.

To clean off buildup, spray the WD-40 on the hardened residue and leave it for a few minutes before pulling the pieces away from the caulk gun. Use a wire brush to gently scrub away any leftover pieces. To prevent future issues with residue, remove the caulk tube and extend the plunger. Concentrate on spraying areas that typically come in contact with the caulk tube, including the plunger and barrel. It's important to note that you should not spray WD-40 on the friction mechanism, and if the caulk gun is plastic or has plastic or rubber components, you'll want to steer clear of those as well to avoid major damage.

Also, if there is an excessive amount of buildup on your caulk gun, WD-40 may not be enough to get it back in working order. In this case, it might be best to bite the bullet and buy a new caulk gun. For best results, ensure that you are regularly cleaning your caulk gun and use WD-40 to assist with removing residue. If you need to remove caulk from other surfaces, use a solvent with ingredients that will not damage the surface.