The two most commonly used caulks are latex and silicone, each with its own distinct properties. Latex caulk is designed to bond to porous surfaces, such as wood, masonry, plaster, and drywall. The caulk cures as the water within the mixture evaporates. Latex caulk also applies easily, provides good workability, is paintable, and cleans up with water. However, since it is a water-based product, latex caulk shrinks as it cures. Over time, this leads to tearing and separation, eventually compromising the joint.
While silicone is harder to work with than latex caulk and requires solvent to clean up, silicone provides a watertight seal that remains flexible almost indefinitely regardless of temperature changes. This gives silicone a distinct advantage over latex when it comes to sealing items like doors, windows, showers, and other areas regularly exposed to water. Unlike latex however, be aware that 100% silicone caulk is not paintable.
