Performance Standard: HBR article 5-2 Click icon to view book 
Sealants and caulks used in sealing cracks, joints and openings may shrink, crack and fall out due to the natural movement of wood products and due to weather changes.
Notes
Caulking is used to keep water from entering where it is not wanted. Outside your home caulking can be used at wood trim, windows, doors and electric and cable penetrations. Inside your home caulking is used at painted trim, countertop backsplashes, as well as around tubs and showers.
Time and weather will shrink and dry caulking so that it no longer provides a good seal. As routine maintenance, check the caulking and make needed repairs. Caulking compounds and dispenser guns are available at hardware stores and home centers, such as Home Depot or Lowe’s. Read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to be certain that you select an appropriate caulk for the intended purpose.
Homeowner Maintenance Information
Colored Caulk – Colored caulking is available at some hardware stores and home centers. As with any colored material, dye lots can vary.
Some stores, such as ACE Hardware, now offer in-store custom made colors.
Paintable Silicone Caulk – Paintable silicone caulking is appropriate for an area that requires painting, such as along the stair stringer or where wood trim meets the wall.
Silicone Caulk – Straight silicone caulk will not accept paint; it works best where water is present, for example, where a tub or shower meets tile.
Grouting Caulk – This caulk has sand mixed with colored silicone to emulate course tile grout and can be used effectively to caulk cracked tile backsplash grout. Look for it in the tile section of your hardware or home center.
BUILDER Limited Warranty Guidelines
BUILDER will re-caulk, one time only, any area that requires correction to prevent leakage. This correction will take place, if necessary, only during the warranty period. Homeowner should maintain caulking throughout the life of the home.
See these sections also: Countertops, Ceramic Tile, Siding, and Moldings & Trim.
