In the vast world of tools, people often mistake a caulking gun for a grease pump. However, these tools have different uses.
While a grease pump is used to insert a tube that lubricates car parts, caulking guns are a powerful piece of equipment used to seal joints and carry out repairs using silicone.
Keep reading to find out how a caulking gun works and tips for choosing the best model for your repairs.
What is a Caulking Gun?
This tool is used to apply sealant or silicone and contains a mechanism that compresses and extracts material from a tube, which is then applied to various surfaces.
What is a Caulking Gun for?
This tool is generally used to seal joints for home repairs, handicraft projects, construction, installations, and thermal insulation.
What are the Main Businesses that use Caulking Guns?
Silicone guns are so versatile that they are very commonly found in the following business areas:
- Construction: for sealing joints, attaching parts, and applying adhesives;
- Glass industry: for repairs and to connect glass components;
- Electronics industry: for applying electronic components and sealing electronic enclosures;
Among many others.
In the automotive sector, this tool is essential for car garages, as it can be used to:
- Repair plastic panels;
- Install or repair windscreens;
- Seal connections and prevent water or dirt from getting into fog lights;
- Joining panels.
How Does a Caulking Gun Work?
In short, all you have to do is insert a silicone tube into the gun, ensure it is correctly placed, and pull the trigger so the tube compresses and silicone comes out.
As the silicone is released in a controlled way, you can apply it precisely in the place you want. If you release the trigger, the silicone stops.
What types of Caulking Guns are There?
There are several types of caulking guns, each designed for different needs and applications.
Some of the leading models include:
- Standard manual gun: the most common type, which is operated manually. Ideal for small to medium-sized projects and DIY;
- Pneumatic gun: operates using compressed air and is useful for large-scale applications and in industrial or mechanical workshops;
- Battery-operated silicone gun: works with a rechargeable battery, allowing for increased mobility in places where electricity is not available;
- Electric silicone gun: like other power tools, this variant uses electricity to drive the compression mechanism.
How Do You Use a Caulking Gun?
First of all, you should always use the silicone that best suits the project you are working on.
Then, insert the tube into the gun and cut the tip to the size you want, usually at an angle, to make application easier.
Next, press the trigger to start the silicone flow, applying it evenly. Maintain constant pressure on the trigger for precise control.
When the application is complete, release the trigger.
How do you Remove the Silicone Tube from the Gun?
Removing the silicone tube from the gun is a simple process. Just follow these steps:
- Press the trigger to release any remaining pressure;
- Release the hook or brake on the gun to allow for the tube to be released;
- Slowly pull the tube out;
- If you want to reuse the tube, cut off the tip to remove any dried silicone residue;
- Clean the silicone residue to ensure the next application can be carried out smoothly.
Which Precautions Should You Take When Working with Silicone Guns?
To avoid accidents or injuries resulting from use of this tool, you must follow some occupational safety rules.
You should wear personal protective equipment (PPE) and apply the silicone in places with good ventilation to avoid inhaling silicone vapours.
In addition, you should keep your fingers away from the nozzle of the gun and clean it after each use to prevent clogging and ensure proper operation.
Once you’ve finished using it, store the gun in a cold, dry place, such as in a tool cabinet.
How Do You Choose the Right Caulking Gun for You?
The choice of the right model depends on several factors, including the type of project, frequency of use, and your individual preferences.
Here are some considerations to help with the choice:
- Frequency of use;
- Type of project (e.g. construction or car repairs);
- Feed type of the gun, i.e. manual, pneumatic, or electric;
- Additional features such as pressure control, speed adjustment, or wireless models.
What are the Advantages of having a Caulking Gun in a Car Garage?
Having this tool in your garage allows you to:
- Assist in assembling and fixing components;
- Carry out quick repairs on glass or plastic components;
- Ease preventive maintenance in areas susceptible to wear;
- Effectively seal joints and surfaces to prevent fluid leakage;
- Save time and money as this tool speeds up minor repairs.
Which Caulking Guns are Available in the KROFtools catalogue?
If you seek a professional model to improve the services provided by your Car Repair Shop, know that the KROFtools catalogue contains the ideal solution for you.
Pneumatic Caulking gun
This gun features a 3/8″ diameter hose and works with 50-70 PSI air pressure and a 1/4″ air inlet.
Click on the image to find out more about our Air Caulking Gun (Ref. 2299).
How Much Does a Caulking Gun Cost?
A basic manual model costs, on average, less than 10 euros. However, if you are looking for a manual professional caulking gun, the average price is 50 euros.
For electric caulking guns, however, the average price goes up to hundreds of euros.
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