A gap around the sink, a leaking joint at the edge of the bathtub or a draughty window frame are some of the most common small repairs at home. In most cases the fix is a fresh line of silicone, and the tool that makes it easy is a caulking gun (silicone gun). This guide explains what a caulking gun is used for, how to choose one, and step by step how to apply silicone for a clean, neat finish.
1. What is a caulking gun used for?
A caulking gun holds a standard sealant cartridge and pushes the material out in a steady, controlled bead every time you squeeze the trigger. Around the home it is useful for:
- Sealing the joint between the sink or worktop and the wall in the kitchen.
- Re-sealing the edges of bathtubs, shower trays and washbasins.
- Filling gaps around window and door frames.
- Installing glass and fixing panels with sealants and cartridge adhesives.
2. How to choose the right caulking gun
Body strength
A metal body handles the pressure of thick sealants without bending, which keeps the bead even.
Cartridge fit
Make sure the gun fits standard silicone cartridges, the type you find in most hardware shops.
Trigger and release
A smooth trigger reduces hand fatigue, and a release mechanism lets you stop the flow quickly so silicone doesn't keep oozing out after you finish.
3. Two caulking guns we recommend
TOTAL professional caulking gun
The TOTAL Professional Caulking Gun 9" (230mm) THT21809 is from the Super TOTAL series for heavy-duty use. It has a robust metal body, an easy-to-squeeze trigger and fits standard 55mm diameter cartridges, which makes it ideal for silicone, sealants and adhesives, including sealing gaps and installing glass or sinks.
Manual metal caulking gun
For everyday jobs around the house, the Manual Silicone Caulking Gun has a durable metal construction, an ergonomic handle and a pressure mechanism with a quick-release trigger for consistent sealant flow. It fits standard silicone cartridges.
4. Which one should you pick?
- Frequent use or thicker sealants: the TOTAL THT21809 from the heavy-duty Super series.
- Occasional home repairs: the manual metal caulking gun is a practical everyday choice.
- Either way: both fit standard silicone cartridges.
Browse more in our hand tools collection or see every TOTAL product in the TOTAL tools collection.
5. How to apply silicone with a caulking gun, step by step
Remove the old silicone and clean the surface
New silicone won't stick well on top of old, dirty or mouldy silicone. Scrape the old bead off completely, then clean and dry the joint. The Multi-Purpose Window & Floor Scraper is designed to remove adhesive residues and stubborn dirt from glass, ceramics and flat surfaces.
Cut the nozzle at an angle
Cut the cartridge tip at about 45 degrees. Start with a small opening, since you can always make it bigger but not smaller. A compact cutter like the 4-in-1 Multi-Purpose Utility Cutter with its retractable blade does the job neatly.
Load the gun
Pull the plunger rod all the way back, place the cartridge in the gun, then push the rod forward until it touches the base of the cartridge.
Apply one steady bead
Hold the gun at an angle to the joint and squeeze the trigger gently while moving at a steady speed. Try to finish each joint in one continuous movement for an even line.
Smooth and let it cure
Smooth the bead with a wet finger or a smoothing tool, wipe away any excess immediately, then leave it to dry for the time recommended on the cartridge before using the sink or shower.
6. Safety and tips
- Wear work gloves to keep silicone off your hands, and work in a well-ventilated room.
- Use masking tape on both sides of the joint if you want perfectly straight edges, and peel it off while the silicone is still wet.
- Release the pressure after every joint so the silicone stops flowing.
- Choose a silicone suitable for wet areas when sealing kitchens and bathrooms, and always follow the instructions on the cartridge.
Frequently asked questions
Can I put new silicone over the old one?
It's not recommended. New silicone sticks poorly to old silicone, so remove the old bead and clean the joint first for a lasting seal.
Why does silicone keep coming out after I stop?
Because the rod is still pressing on the cartridge. Use the release on the gun right after each joint to relieve the pressure.
Does a caulking gun only work with silicone?
No. It works with other sealants and cartridge adhesives that come in standard cartridges, like the ones the TOTAL THT21809 is designed for.
Order your caulking gun from EQUIPE
Get your caulking gun and the tools you need for a clean finish in one order. Pay cash on delivery, with shipping to all Egyptian governorates in 2–3 business days and returns within 14 days. Need help choosing? Message us on WhatsApp at 01124686343 or email sales@equipe-eg.com.