Caulking gun - how to use a simple gun at home. How to use a glue gun - reviews, photos, testimonials How to use a construction gun for sealant
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Modern sealants and adhesives used during installation are produced packaged in plastic tubes or soft bags. It can be assumed that during use the contents of the package must be squeezed out somehow. This is really true, but how to do it - maybe press something, for example, the handle of a hammer, onto the bottom of the tube? It is possible, of course, but how practical is it to ensure a high-quality and aesthetic seam?
For novice builders, it may be a discovery that there is no need to suffer so much at all, since there are many simple devices for these purposes - quite peaceful pistols. By the way, there are also pneumatic and even electric models. You just need to know how to use a caulk gun.
Pistol models
Such a device cannot in any way be considered complex. The principle of its operation is to squeeze the sealant out of the appropriate container. But, as in any business, there are subtleties here. Let's start with the fact that their range is so wide that everyone can choose one according to their financial capabilities, but how not to make a mistake.
Devices for sealing materials are divided according to the following indicators:
- type of compartments for tubes;
- design features;
- material supply system.
Based on the type of compartments, they are divided into sheet and frame, and the latter are more in demand, since they hold the tube much more tightly.
According to the sealant supply system, the gun comes in several types - each with its own pros and cons.
Mechanical manual
This model is the most affordable option for a tool, although, unfortunately, it is not very durable. They are great for household jobs when you only need a couple of cartridges. But imagine what it would be like to squeeze out masses using only the physical force of your hands on a large object.
Pneumatic
The gun works thanks to compressed air pressure (3–6 atm). This model is very common when performing medium-sized construction work, since using a gun of this type is quite simple. This is facilitated by various limiters and regulators that manufacturers equip them with. A pneumatic tool allows you to obtain an even seam of sealing compound of the required thickness. The tool is equipped with a special valve through which excess material is discharged, that is, there is virtually no loss of sealant. Another advantage is the ability to use it for different containers. Considering that these models operate on compressed air, their body is often made of metal.Rechargeable
These models are distinguished by their autonomy, since they are equipped with a battery pack, usually lithium-ion. Squeeze out the sealing paste using a handle that is sufficiently sensitive to pressure. In fact, the speed and accuracy with which the sealant is applied is controlled by the force of pressing the same handle.Electrical
The electric version and the previous one differ only in the power source - electric ones are powered from the mains. They provide speed and accuracy, high level savings. They are approached different types containers. You must understand that these professional devices are not cheap, but for simple repairs, in fact, such a model is simply not needed.
Self-contained guns are equipped with a pressure regulator that allows you to regulate the flow of sealing material. Moreover, the “auto-reverse” function eliminates its residual extrusion: when the work is finished, the rod moves back and reduces the pressure.
And finally, according to the characteristics of the device, devices are divided into:- semi-body - works with a tube volume of 310 ml, they have a simple mechanism of a rod and a stand for the cartridge, so they break down quite quickly - they are only enough for 2-3 tubes. This type of tool is not convenient enough to operate - it is difficult to hold in your hands;
- skeletal - designed for work with the same volume, but has a more complex mechanism, consisting of a rod and three stiffeners. They are more expensive than semi-hull ones, but also more durable;
- tubular (closed) – more versatile and suitable for working with different volumes of acrylic and silicone compositions, 600–1600 ml, so it needs to be refilled much less often. By design, it consists of a cylinder, which serves as a cartridge, and a rod.
How to use a caulk gun
The most important point proper preparation of the tube spout is considered - this determines how well the sealant will be applied. The cutting angle must be 45⁰, as for the width, it is chosen in accordance with the thickness of the seam.
For those taking their first steps in this field, it is recommended to start with a cut with the smallest diameter, and then increase it as necessary.
Refilling a plastic cartridge
How to fill sealing compound in soft packaging
Refilling soft packaging is almost the same as refilling plastic packaging. Note a few different points.
- Unscrew the fixing nut from the top of the instrument tube and remove the spout. If the tool has already been used, it may need to be cleaned.
Especially large selection There is no way to remove silicone sealant in a dried state. This can only be decided mechanically, and this is done quite simply.
If during the repair you need to seal several cracks or joints, you can carry out these actions yourself using sealant. As everyone knows, sealant is mostly sold in packages with a long spout, but it is impossible to get the mass out of there without a special construction gun.
Seeing such a gun for the first time, not everyone will understand how to use it. But this article will tell you in detail and show that this unit is not so difficult to use, but it simplifies the repair process much.
Types of sealant guns
A construction gun is a device for effectively squeezing out sealant and has a not particularly complex design. But it would seem that such a simple thing is divided into types in accordance with the type of compartments for sealant, the structural features and supply of the composition.
According to the first criterion, devices are divided into sheet and frame. The second type is more common, as it has better and more reliable retention of the cartridge. Based on the method of supplying sealant, battery-powered, electric and mechanical units can be distinguished. Each type has pros and cons, so we can’t help but say:
Based on their design, devices can be divided into skeletal, tubular and semi-hulled. The first type is designed to work with 310 ml cartridges. Half-body versions of pistols are not very durable and are inconvenient to use. They also use 310 ml cartridges. The tubular type gun is suitable for professional work. It needs to be refilled less often, since absolutely any cartridge options are suitable for it.
Working with a gun
Using a caulking gun is not difficult. Having familiarized yourself with the main nuances, you can safely get to work and be confident in a clear result.
The operating principle of such a device is not at all complicated. The gun works by applying pressure to a tube of sealant. As a result of this effect, a strip of material comes out of the container, which is mechanically aligned and placed in the right place. The pressure comes from a rod that is driven by a trigger. The main problems occur before the sealant is inserted into the gun.
Important! A pneumatic tool uses air instead of a rod.
Algorithm for using the tool
- Remove the restraints. When working with a skeleton or half-body caulking gun, there will be no problems with removing the stops. In addition to removing the limiting elements on the tool itself, you need to remove them on the container itself with the composition, if there are any on it.
- Pull out the rod. To move the rod, you need to press the lever all the way and pull out the rod. This frees up space into which a container with sealant is installed. Afterwards you need to press the trigger a few more times so that the tube is firmly secured.
- Release the sealant. We cut a hole in the cartridge itself that will allow the composition to pass to the nozzle. Usually the nozzles come in one piece, so it is also necessary to cut top part, so that you get a hole of the same diameter as the thickness of the seam you need.
If a tubular or syringe type gun is used, the filling algorithm is slightly different. First of all, in this case, a hole is made in the container with the compound and its cut side is laid towards the hole through which the sealant will come out.
Important! Before inserting the container with sealant, the rod is removed. This is done in the same way as in the previous case.
As a rule, a set of tips is included with the gun. If the selected nozzle does not have a hole for the sealant to exit, you can make one by cutting off a small part of the tip. This should be done at an angle of 45 degrees.
Each individual caulk gun can be equipped with additional functions and certain elements that help during operation. That is why it is a good idea to study the instructions that come with the purchased pistol model.
Conclusion
Sealant is a substance that is used everywhere and not only for major repairs, but also for small finishing works. Therefore, knowledge of the algorithm for using a pistol to supply the composition is very important, since the final result and appearance seam
Not many novice remodelers know how to use a caulk gun.
And for some, this tool may seem like a very complex device.
But it does not require any special knowledge and is quite simple to operate.
To start working with sealant, you only need to have a container with the appropriate material and a gun.
The design of the pistol itself is simple. It has a trigger, a frame and a metal pusher. To insert a bottle of sealant into the tool, you must perform the following steps.
If you look at the pusher, you can see a metal retainer (plate with a spring) on the trigger side.
You need to press this lock, and then pull the pusher out to the maximum possible distance.
Then you need to take a bottle of sealant and cut off the tip from it, taking into account the markings. You also need to pierce the membrane under the plastic cap.
When inserting a balloon into the gun, you first need to insert the tip into the hole on it. Then you need to press the latch again and push the pusher into the hole at the bottom of the cylinder until it stops.
Actually, all this must be done to start using the tool. To squeeze out the sealant, you must gently press the trigger of the gun.
Construction stores now have quite a large selection of sealant guns. First of all, the price of this type of tool depends on its functionality.
What types of sealant guns are there?
Sealant guns come in closed and open type. They all have a piston for extrusion and are made to fit different tube diameters.
All kinds of sealants are very common in modern construction. They are used almost everywhere and are made from various substances.
The scope of application of sealants is not limited only to hydro-, noise-, and thermal insulation.
Sealants, depending on the composition, are used to seal seams between logs, in bathrooms, kitchens, etc.
Sealants are also used to seal the seams between panels used to construct residential and non-residential buildings.
The sealant is usually packaged in a special metal or plastic tube (cartridge). In tubes, the sealing compound may be under pressure.
When there is no excess pressure in the housing, the sealant is squeezed out of the tube by the piston.
How to use a sealant gun: types and application features
For novice builders, it may be a discovery that there is no need to suffer so much at all, since there are many simple devices for these purposes - quite peaceful pistols. By the way, there are also pneumatic and even electric models. You just need to know how to use a caulk gun.
Pistol models
How to use the right silicone sealant
The principle of its operation is to squeeze the sealant out of the appropriate container. But, as in any business, there are subtleties here. Let's start with the fact that their range is so wide that everyone can choose one according to their financial capabilities, but how not to make a mistake.
Devices for sealing materials are divided according to the following indicators:
- type of compartments for tubes;
- design features;
- material supply system.
Based on the type of compartments, they are divided into sheet and frame, and the latter are more in demand, since they hold the tube much more tightly.
According to the sealant supply system, the gun comes in several types - each with its own pros and cons.
Mechanical manual
This model is the most affordable option for a tool, although, unfortunately, it is not very durable.
They are great for household jobs when you only need a couple of cartridges. But imagine what it would be like to squeeze out masses using only the physical force of your hands on a large object.
Pneumatic
The gun works thanks to compressed air pressure (3–6 atm). This model is very common when performing medium-sized construction work, since using a gun of this type is quite simple.
This is facilitated by various limiters and regulators that manufacturers equip them with. A pneumatic tool allows you to obtain an even seam of sealing compound of the required thickness. The tool is equipped with a special valve through which excess material is discharged, that is, there is virtually no loss of sealant.
Another advantage is the ability to use it for different containers. Considering that these models operate on compressed air, their body is often made of metal.
Rechargeable
These models are distinguished by their autonomy, since they are equipped with a battery pack, usually lithium-ion. Squeeze out the sealing paste using a handle that is sufficiently sensitive to pressure.
In fact, the speed and accuracy with which the sealant is applied is controlled by the force of pressing the same handle.
Electrical
The electric version and the previous one differ only in the power source - electric ones are powered from the mains.
They provide speed and accuracy, a high level of savings. They are suitable for different types of containers. You must understand that these professional devices are not cheap, but for simple repairs, in fact, such a model is simply not needed.
Self-contained guns are equipped with a pressure regulator that allows you to regulate the flow of sealing material. Moreover, the “auto-reverse” function eliminates its residual extrusion: when the work is finished, the rod moves back and reduces the pressure.
And finally, according to the characteristics of the device, devices are divided into:
- semi-body - works with a tube volume of 310 ml, they have a simple mechanism of a rod and a stand for the cartridge, so they break down quite quickly - they are only enough for 2-3 tubes.
This type of tool is not convenient enough to operate - it is difficult to hold in your hands;
- skeletal - designed for work with the same volume, but has a more complex mechanism, consisting of a rod and three stiffeners.
They are more expensive than semi-hull ones, but also more durable;
- tubular (closed) – more versatile and suitable for working with different volumes of acrylic and silicone compositions, 600–1600 ml, so it needs to be refilled much less often. By design, it consists of a cylinder, which serves as a cartridge, and a rod.
How to use a caulk gun
The most important point is the correct preparation of the tube spout - this determines how well the sealant will be applied.
The cutting angle must be 45°; as for the width, it is chosen in accordance with the thickness of the seam.
For those taking their first steps in this field, it is recommended to start with a cut with the smallest diameter, and then increase it as necessary.
Refilling a plastic cartridge
- The exit opening on the tube is cut off.
Sometimes it is simply pierced, however, it should be noted that this causes increased resistance to the extruded material.
- To fully extend the rod of the device, you must press the latch.
- The tube is placed in the gun and the rod is pushed in to the very bottom of the paste package. In this case, the latch is held in a pressed state.
- To squeeze out the paste, press the trigger of the device.
If it is necessary to pause work, press the lock again and the rod extends a little back. Thanks to this, pressure on the tube is eliminated, which prevents spontaneous leakage of the paste.
- The sealing material is applied by evenly moving the device's nose along the seam until the entire cavity is completely and efficiently filled. As a rule, with proper pruning, this is quite easy to do.
- Having completed the work, close the tube spout with the cap intended for this purpose.
How to fill sealing compound in soft packaging
Refilling soft packaging is almost the same as refilling plastic packaging.
Note a few different points.
- Unscrew the fixing nut from the top of the instrument tube and remove the spout. If the tool has already been used, it may need to be cleaned.
There is not much choice in how to remove silicone sealant in a dried state.
This can only be solved mechanically, and this is done quite simply.
- The tool rod is retracted all the way back until it stops.
- The packaging is cut at the top either with a knife or using side cutters, then inserted into the body and the spout and fastening nut are restored in their places.
- When stopping work in hand guns, the pressure is relieved by pulling the rod back.
In more advanced models, this happens automatically.
You may be interested in: We sell inexpensive industrial staplers wholesale and retail for stitching corrugated paper.
Sealed gun
A caulking gun is a tool that allows you to use a special sealing agent on any design surface. According to their classification, these pistols are divided into amateurs and professionals. In addition, regardless of the category to which this gun belongs, it can be either manual or pneumatic.
The sealants are then sold in special containers called “tubes.”
These pipes come in standard sizes or gun sizes, which also come with a specific standard. The price of a seal gun depends on the type of tool you are dealing with, which could be:
- R academic skeleton;
- R academically with a cylindrical body;
— N olukorpusnym;
- And pneumatic.
In this article, we will analyze each of these types of guns and finally find out which sealant is better and worse.
Details of seal types
Hand gun. Let's start with one of the most common pistols.
This is very useful with materials such as silicone or medium viscosity sealants for use in construction and renovation. Generally, these guns are used by non-professional construction workers, so they can be safely classified as hobbyist tools.
This tool can make repairs much easier and quickly complete a fairly large part of the construction process.
Manual pistol with a cylindrical body. This type of gun is used when working with unpainted sealants, as well as when working with pipes.
Typically this pistol is made of fairly durable metal or aluminum. Also a fairly common type of weapon used by hobbyists. However, it is often used by specialists because it is very easy and convenient to process large areas and repair areas.
Fluffy pistol. This refers to a series of sealing gaskets used by professional builders.
One of the features of this type of gun is a reinforced body, as well as a trigger, which significantly increases the reliability of the tool and facilitates the construction process.
Air gun. An absolutely precise professional instrument.
This is only useful for those who are faced with such work on a daily basis, which does this in large quantities. Such a gun will help do the job much faster, with much less effort. It is used in almost universal applications, including pipe processing, volumetric sealants and so on.
Select a gasket gun
Now about the pistol you must choose for yourself.
Firstly, prices for a caulk gun can be completely different and actually depend on the type of tool itself. If you need a weapon for specific occasions, choose a few models on a budget and follow the rules below.
First you need to pay attention to the comfort and comfort of the pistol. Take it by the handle and feel if it suits you.
There should not be much tension on the inside of your hand when you pull the trigger. If you like this model of your pistol, we turn to an external review.
A good and high-quality weapon will have parts of light and durable metal - for example, aluminum.
Don't settle for models with plastic parts and fasteners. Most likely, such a pistol will be aborted after a second operation.
Then, if you want to choose a tool, you need to know how to use it properly. First you have to press the gun handle, the rear lever that is also on it.
Once you have made room for the cartridge, you must remove the metal pin. A tube containing a sealed substance is inserted into this room. In addition, the pistol's fright is pressed and supported on the cartridge, after which the tip is cut off and the submachine gun becomes fully operational.
Now when you pull the trigger, the sealant can be easily removed.
Notice the gun holders in the background - if so, how big is it? — Most likely, we will have to abandon such a purchase and draw attention to another model. To select a gun seal that is tight, you should also check for leaks.
If the gun meets the requirements, the seal of the pipe with the substance will not be compromised, otherwise you will have to refuse such a purchase. Buy a seal gun in any store or online - this is the advantage that today's selection is enough.
Remember that the gun High Quality can't be too cheap because it uses high quality materials and modern technologies, which allow it to last a long time.
Therefore, if we sincerely focus on the most budget models, it is not worth it.
A caulk gun is used not only for interior repairs, but also for some exterior work in home construction. This tool got its name because of the peculiarities of its action. The sealant comes out when the trigger is pressed, and therefore the tool is compared to this firearms. But this comparison, of course, is conditional, since the composition is squeezed out by a piston, which moves after the trigger is pulled. Therefore, it is more of a syringe.
How to use a caulk gun in pictures
Operating principle
We will look at how to use a sealant gun a little later, but now we will find out how it works. Actually, there is nothing complicated about this: under the influence of pressure on the cartridge, the mixture is squeezed out in the form of a strip, the person directs it and achieves the desired effect. The pressure is exerted by the rod, which moves when the trigger is pulled. It is typical that in pneumatic devices the role of the rod is played by air.
Video - how to use a sealant gun
Sealant gun operating instructions
First, a little advice. If in right time suddenly the gun is not at hand, then in order to knock the sealant out of the cartridge, you can use any available tool. For example, a hammer.
To use the gun successfully, follow these steps, which we have illustrated with pictures.
Step 1. First, take care of personal protection - at a minimum, wear gloves.
Step 2. Next, prepare the surface to apply sealant. IN in this case We can’t recommend anything specific, since everything depends on the cartridge manufacturer’s instructions. Everything must be written in back side the last one. Use a sharp knife or scraper to remove the previous coating. triangular shape. Remove remaining crumbs with a brush or use a vacuum cleaner.
In addition, the working surface must be degreased.
Step 3: Next, remove the limiters. If we're talking about about a half-body or skeleton pistol, then this procedure will happen quickly. First, make sure that the tube does not have a special bottom-limiter. And if it is still present, then remove it.
Step 4. Let's figure out further how to use a sealant gun. Then pull out the rod in the device. To do this, press the lever and remove the part. Place the cartridge in the place that was vacated by the rod and apply a few gentle pressures on the hook to finally strengthen the container.
Installing a cartridge in a skeleton sealant gun (photo)
Note! In most cases, such cones come sealed. And if you also have it sealed, you will have to cut off the end of the cone to form the required seam diameter. It is important that the cut dimensions are smaller than required for the job.
But if you decide to use a tubular or syringe tool for work, then you should use it slightly differently.
Installing a cartridge into a tubular (syringe) gun for sealant
Photo - diagram of a tubular gun
Step 1: First, make a hole in the sealant tube. If you are using packaged material or a “sausage”, then cut off one corner/end with extreme care so that the mixture can easily come out of the bag.
Step 2. Next, place the prepared container with the material into the tool itself, but so that it is the cut end of the container that goes to the tip, through which, in fact, the strip of material will be squeezed out.
Step 3. Of course, before this you need to remove the rod - do this in the same way as with a skeletal-type device.
Step 4. Guns are often equipped with several nozzles with such tips. Choose one of them and screw it onto the cylinder. If you notice that there is no hole on it (the tip), then take a utility knife and cut the tip, but strictly at an angle of 45 degrees. Of course, you also have to guess the size of the future hole in order to get a seam of the required diameter.
Be that as it may, if you have a sealant gun on your hands, then you must also have the manufacturer’s instructions. Take the time to familiarize yourself with it, since manufacturers often equip tools with some improvements and developments that are not provided in standard models.
Video - Sealant application technology
As we have already found out, if the tool is properly equipped, then there should be no difficulties with its operation. And if you installed the cartridge as described in the instructions above, then you have already done half the work. Therefore, all that remains is to slowly press the trigger and apply the mixture to the desired seam. If you have a semi-body or skeletal type instrument, it may take a couple of first clicks to required amount material has filled the void in the tip. After this, make only smooth movements.
And if the model is battery-powered or electric, then by pressing the trigger you will regulate the intensity of the material supply. Therefore, if you are picking up a tool for the first time, then first practice in inconspicuous places - for example, seal a seam in the far corner of the room. After a little practice, you can move on to more visible places.
If you need to trim something or insert material into a gap, wet your fingers a little and run them along the surface. Use soapy water for this so that the mixture does not stick to your fingers. By the way, it is with this water that it is most convenient to remove the formed drips.
Note! The sealant does not require additional drying - fresh air it will acquire the required strength within two to three hours.
And one more useful advice: After you finish sealing, be sure to rinse the instrument with warm water.
Go ahead. To make the seam beautiful, use masking tape - stick it on both sides of the gap and remove it immediately after applying the sealant. To make a beautiful and, more importantly, high-quality corner seam, do the following. First, gently moisten side surfaces using soapy water. First prepare a small stick made of plastic or wood; Cut one side of the stick so that you can use it to set the shape for the seam. Accordingly, the final shape of the upper part of the seam will no longer be formed by the tip of the gun, but by the stick mentioned above.
Note! If you accidentally squeeze out too much sealant, don't worry - there's nothing wrong with it. Simply dry the seam with a hairdryer and remove the remaining material from the side surface using the same stick dipped in soapy water.
Basic classifications
Based on the type of compartments for cartridges (that is, containers with the mixture), the tool is divided into two categories:
- leafy;
- framed
The latter are more popular because they fix the cartridge more securely. Depending on the method of squeezing out the mixture, guns are divided into four more categories.
Finally, according to the design features, pistols can be:
- skeletal (designed for cartridges with a volume of 310 milliliters);
- half-body (the volume is the same, but the mechanism is simpler; designed for several cartridges, but extremely inconvenient to use);
- tubular, working with any cartridges.
Note! The best option is a skeleton pistol. It costs a little more, but is more durable.
But how to choose the right option? Let's get a look.
Features of choosing a sealant gun
The most important criterion is volume future work. If you only need to process a couple of joints, you can safely purchase a skeletal tool. And if you have a more complex task ahead (such as, for example, repairing an entire home), then buy a tubular-type pneumatic tool.
When only accuracy and speed of work are important, the best option is a battery-powered or mains-powered tool. Directly at the time of purchase, see how convenient the gun is for you personally, and whether the elements will interfere with operation.
AND Special attention Pay attention to the hook itself: see if it is fixed tightly enough, what it was made of, etc. Finally, if we talk about specific brands, then, of course, give preference only to trusted manufacturers who have already earned trust.
As you can see, there is nothing complicated about how to use a sealant gun. All you need is the right tool, a quality mixture, a little practice and, of course, a good step-by-step instruction. You have already found the last one - here - so all that remains is to go to the store to buy it.
And finally, another useful video. Good luck with your work!
Video - Using acrylic sealant
There are special devices for performing various construction works. Their use can significantly speed up the entire process, as well as significantly improve the quality of the operations performed.
Sealant guns allow you to quickly and efficiently seal seams. In this case, the composition is applied carefully, without loss or contamination.
How to insert sealant
The device for applying sealant has external resemblance with a pistol, that's why they called him that. There is a wide variety of models, but they are all easy to use. The sealant is squeezed out of the container using a piston. It is activated by a trigger.
It’s not difficult to start working with sealant using a gun. To do this you need to do the following:
- the metal pin is released; to do this, you need to press the latch against the handle;
- a cylinder with sealant is installed in the resulting space;
- The cartridge spout has a special marking. It must be cut along the line that will allow you to obtain the required thickness of the sealed layer;
- on last stage a metal piston is inserted; to do this, you need to move the latch again. The piston should be used to pierce the cylinder, pressing it all the way.
After this, the gun will be ready for use. Many models of devices have instructions that describe in detail how to prepare them for use.
After the sealant bottle is inserted into the device, you can begin to work. To do this, you just need to pull the trigger. As a result, the piston moves the mass forward and squeezes it out through the spout.
The technician directs the cartridge nozzle in the desired direction, pressing the trigger, and fills all the cracks with the compound. The gun must be cleaned after use. The used cartridge is removed, the device itself is washed and dried.
Sealants are available in standard size containers that will fit any gun. When purchasing a device, you must first pay attention to the ease of use of the gun.
It is best to choose a lightweight model, since you will have to hold it with one hand. The handle and trigger should be positioned as comfortably as possible for your hand. If using a sealant gun is inconvenient, it will be difficult to achieve beautiful and even seams.
Watch the video on how to use a sealant gun:
