I’ve made my mistakes, I’ve done some more research (Site subscription has now paid off!), now I’m looking for those very important pointers.
When I set my self rimming American Standard kitchen sink two years ago, I used a Silicone caulk, probably the GE kitchen brand. Basic Laminate countertop. Two years later some of it has started to come up, and there is black grunge growing in it’s gaps. I’ve scraped it off, and I’m getting the DC OS-2 Silicone Cleaner and Surface Prep to get the old caulking off.
So now I want to do it correctly. I’ve read the Peter Hemp article, he really seems to like plumbers putty.
I take it the mistake I made originally was NOT using denatured alcohol to prep the surface before caulking? Any other things I should know when doing this?
Also, I’m concerned about the back edge of the sink – the area between it and the backsplash. The last house I lived in this area was starting to rot out due to standing water back there, and I don’t want this to happen on this new countertop. Any tricks for this area?
Rebuilding my home in Cypress, CA
Also a CRX fanatic!
Replies
Wipe off the back of the sink every time you use it. I keep a washcloth right handy under the sink, & have trained the family...(mostly...)
Training... hmmmm... is that like what my wife is trying to do with me and the toilet seat? :)Rebuilding my home in Cypress, CA
Also a CRX fanatic!
Do you need training? Are you not thoughtful & considerate & a generally fine human being already???
Train the whole family to leave the cover closed when not in use - that way, not only will the seat be down, but the dog won't drink out of it, and all the magazines & tool catalogs on the back of it won't fall in - at least, that's what I told my DH - 8>)
Also, I'm thinking about going to a SS sink instead of a white painted one (already has chips)... Do you use a clear caulk around the rim - besides the plumbers putty underneith?
Rebuilding my home in Cypress, CA
Also a CRX fanatic!
Paul,
I coat the inside of the sink cutout with caulk. To seal that raw p-board from any moisture that might (usually does) make it by the 1st line of defense.
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Thankfully - I actually did do that when I first set it 2 y ago... it just seemed right at the time!Rebuilding my home in Cypress, CA
Also a CRX fanatic!
I don't use silicon unless the job specs call for it.
I use Polyseamseal caulk, white mostly, colored when it calls for it & clear for SS.
I start with a bead around the cutout & then a whole bunch after setting the sink ( more on cast iron self rimmers than SS sinks).
I use a damp grout sponge to work it in & wipe off the extra.
I waste more than I use when done, but caulk is cheap compared to water damage later.
I fear no man & only one GOD. Me
I was just about to post asking about using that very same product - thanks for that feedback!Rebuilding my home in Cypress, CA
Also a CRX fanatic!