Sometimes a bright white caulk line is an eyesore (especially in restoration work). If colored caulks won’t fit the bill, try this technique used often in the historic French Quarter of New Orleans, Louisiana. While the caulk is still wet, throw some dirt on it. That’s right, dirt. Very fine dirt. And throw it hard. The dirt will stick to the caulk, imparting a suitably time-worn look. After a couple of days, hose it off, and it will look as good as old.
If dirt doesn’t do the trick, try fine sand, granules from asphalt shingles or portland cement. For some jobs I’ve used crushed red brick and crumbly old mortar.
Michael van Deckbar, Jefferson, LA
