Best Caulk for Drywall Cracks: Top 5 for Better Repair in 2024

Last Updated on January 31, 2023

Drywall cracks are unsightly and can detract from the overall look of your home, but did you know that they can also be detrimental to your property? These drywall cracks can provide an opening for pests and other moisture-loving organisms, leading to infestations and mold growth.

Cracks in drywall are often caused by settling foundations or shifting framing. If left unattended, these cracks can cause serious structural damage, so you should use a simple solution, such as the best caulk for drywall cracks. Using this caulk is a simple and effective way to protect your home from further damage and maintain its curb appeal.

Even though purchasing caulk for your drywall cracks is a relatively inexpensive repair, only some types of caulk are suitable for some applications. Please read on to discover the top recommended caulk choices for drywall cracks, their pros and cons, and how they can help you.

Is it Recommended for Caulk to Drywall Crack?

Yes, caulking drywall cracks is a good idea, especially if you’re trying to make sure your walls look their best. Caulking is an easy and effective way to fix and prevent cracks from returning. Just be sure to use the correct type of caulk for the job.

For example, silicone caulk is best for areas exposed to moisture, like bathrooms. Cracks in the ceiling can also be repaired with latex caulk, but make sure to use a durable option that can stand up to weight and movement.

Difference Between Silicone & Latex Caulk for Filling Drywall Cracks

Most people are familiar with caulk but may need to understand that there are different types of caulk for different purposes. For example, two common types of caulk are silicone and latex. Both can be used to repair cracks in drywall, but they have different properties that make them better suited for different tasks.

Silicone Caulk

Silicone caulk (also known as rubberized silicone caulk) is flexible throughout its working life without breaking, blistering, or discoloration. Due to its durability and waterproof properties, it is typically more expensive than other caulking.

Because of these characteristics, silicone caulking is commonly used around wet environment areas such as sinks, toilets, bathrooms, and bathtubs.

Aside from that, silicone caulking is excellent for outdoor use and keeping your house dry in rainy weather because of its long-lasting nature and resistance to humidity and toughness. But one downside is silicone caulk can’t be painted and is usually only available in clear or white wall color.

Latex Caulk

Latex caulk can be used for various applications, including sealing around indoor windows and doors, covering drywall cracks in walls and floors, and even creating weatherproof seals on outdoor furniture.

If you intend to caulk an area that does not receive much water, acrylic latex caulk is a suitable choice. It may also be necessary to use colored caulk or one that can be painted. Painting applications benefit from acrylic caulk filling crevices between woodwork trim, walls, and ceiling cracks.

But these caulks are usually less expensive than silicone caulk, quickly become dry and ready for painting, and can be purchased in various colors. But one downside is it may dry out and shrink over time or when exposed to moisture.

You can find some top and recommended caulk for filling cracks in drywall below if you are interested in purchasing caulk according to your needs.

Top Silicone Caulks for Covering Drywall Cracks

Silicon caulk is ideal for sealing gaps and cracks in wet areas. It is easy to apply, bonds well to most surfaces, and forms a watertight seal that lasts for years. The following are some of the top silicone caulks for drywall cracks:

➤ Gorilla Waterproof Caulk and Seal for Drywall Cracks

Using Gorilla waterproof caulk and seal for drywall cracks can ensure moisture, air, and water stay out. Designed to be waterproof, mold and mildew resistant, this 100% silicone sealant has excellent adhesion and is relatively straightforward to apply.

Unlike some other sealants, this caulk for cracks in drywall is resistant to shrinking, yellowing, or cracking over time. The product is water-ready in 30 minutes to be used inside and outside.

This silicone sealant is also ideal for a wide range of masonry applications. It easily adheres to drywall to ensure the seal will stay secure and provide a long-lasting waterproof seal.

How Can this Product Help You?

Gorilla drywall caulk and seal can help to seal water, air, and moisture from getting through drywall cracks, thereby reducing moisture and air infiltration in your home or office. This caulk can help provide a robust and long-lasting seal, making it appropriate for interior and exterior applications.

It will protect your indoors from water damage and help prevent microbial buildup. This caulk provides flexibility that allows it to stay in place without cracking over time, ensuring that your drywall will remain moisture-free for the foreseeable future.

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➤ ZERED Clear BioSeal Waterproof Silicone Sealant for Drywall

ZERED Clear BioSeal Waterproof Silicone Sealant is an excellent product for repairing drywall cracks. It is a 100% silicone sealant that is shrinking and crack-proof, suitable for areas prone to expansion or contraction due to temperature fluctuations.

This sealant is also waterproof, thus allowing it to be used in water-prone areas. It does not emit any odors or smells, so you will not have to worry about unpleasant odors while fixing the cracks in your drywall.

As well as maintaining flexibility, the material is soft but dense enough to adhere well to walls. It is a vibration-resistant sealant, so it will not be affected by any vibrations that may occur nearby.

How Can this Product Help You?

ZERED silicone sealant can be used in drywall cracks and areas constantly exposed to water, such as kitchens and bathrooms. This sealant resists shrinkage and cracking and can endure extreme temperature fluctuations.

The sealant is flexible and maintains its flexibility over time, so it is soft but strong density, making it adhesive and capable of withstanding vibration from materials. Aside from that, it does not emit any odor, so you will not be bothered by it while trying to repair the cracks in your drywall.

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➤ Gorilla Clear 100 Percent Silicone Sealant Caulk for Drywall

If you’re looking for a quality silicone caulk that can be used on drywall cracks, look no further than Gorilla Clear 100 Percent Silicone Sealant Caulk. There is no need to worry about water damage when using this sealant since it is 100% waterproof.

This product is weatherproof, which means it can withstand all weather conditions. It won’t shrink, turn yellow or crack with age, so you can use it to seal wall cracks and keep moisture out.

The sealant is ideal for sealing out air and moisture from drywall cracks and other damaged surfaces. As it adheres quickly, it won’t break down due to weathering. Besides being easy to apply, it has a 30-minute water-ready time so that you can use the space immediately.

How Can this Product Help You?

Gorilla clear silicone caulking can help to seal drywall cracks and prevent water and moisture from seeping in. This waterproof sealant adheres to drywall crack surfaces easily and provides a barrier that won’t rip, tear or shrink over time.

With the ability to withstand extreme temperatures, this caulking can help protect your home in any weather. Due to its high flexibility, it will not break as it ages, and its clear finish will not yellow over time.

Whether you’re caulking around windows and doors or sealing drywall cracks, this product is a simple solution to help you

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Recommended Latex Caulks for Drywall Cracks

Latex caulk is a common household repair material used for tasks such as filling drywall cracks. It is commonly used to seal cracks and gaps around doors and windows, preventing drafts and saving energy.

The followings are two recommended latex caulk for cracks:

➤ GE Siliconized Acrylic Latex Caulk for Drywall Cracks

GE siliconized acrylic latex caulk for drywall cracks provides excellent caulking and sealing capabilities. Under different weather conditions, this product remains shrink-proof and crack-proof, ensuring extreme durability and flexibility.

Properly curing this sealant can prevent mold and mildew from growing, which makes it appropriate for indoor and outdoor small projects.

Due to its strong adhesive properties, the compound is easy to apply and convenient. The caulk is paint-resistant and highly bondable for indoor drywall with low odor and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). After drying for 20 minutes or less, the caulk can be painted with oil-based and latex paints.

How Can this Product Help You?

GE Siliconized Acrylic Latex Caulk for Drywall Cracks is a fantastic product to help seal and protect your walls from water damage. It is also resistant to the growth of stain-causing mold and mildew, making it the ideal choice for interior & exterior drywall applications.

This paintable drywall caulk is simple to apply and adheres smoothly to drywall, making it a suitable product for painting. With this weatherproof sealant, you are guaranteed long-lasting and dependable durability.

This drywall crack filler’s high adhesion and flexibility will ensure a long-lasting seal and dependable performance under varying conditions.

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➤ BROUYOUE Wall Mending Caulk for Drywall Cracks

BROUYOUE Wall Mending caulk for drywall cracks can be used anytime and saves construction time, which makes it convenient for household use. It is a fast and simple method of applying caulk to patch drywall. Using water as the primary ingredient, this agent is non-corrosive and safe for all.

Although the caulk dries quickly and efficiently, it is relatively simple to apply. It dries completely within 4 hours, and you can apply it to drywall walls, trim molding, and interior doors in your home.

In addition to being self-adhesive, this product also has a high viscosity and can be used to repair and seal walls for a professional-looking appearance.

How Can this Product Help You?

This BROUYOUE Wall Mending caulk will help you patch up and protect drywall cracks or holes of any size. Its water-based formula is safe to use, and its non-corrosive ingredients make it ideal for use around children and adults alike.

Due to its rapid and efficient drying time, it can be used for quick and easy wall repairs. It’s also self-adhesive, so you don’t have to worry about getting messy while applying.

The drywall crack repair caulk comes with a scraper, so you can level out the caulk on the drywall after applying it. This ensures a smooth, aesthetically pleasing result on every surface.

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 Comparison Table for the Best Caulk to Fix Drywall Cracks

Product	Material	Water Resistance	Color	Drying Time	Item Weight
Gorilla8060002	Silicone	Waterproof	‎White	30 Minutes	12.5 Fluid Ounces
ZEREDBSKB-C	Silicone	Waterproof	Clear	30 Minutes	10.1 Fluid Ounces
Gorilla106464	Silicone	Waterproof	Clear	30 Minutes	7.36 Fluid Ounces
GE SealantsMAP310WT	Latex	Water Resistant	White	20 Minutes	10.1 Fluid Ounces
BROUYOUEWall Mending	Latex	Water Resistant	White	4 Hours	4.2 Fluid Ounces

Is it Better to Use Latex or Silicone Caulk on Drywall Cracks?

Latex and silicone caulk are good options for drywall cracks, but as mentioned earlier, silicon caulk is the preferred choice for wet areas as they are more water & moisture-resistant. These caulks are generally more flexible and durable and can last longer withstanding extreme temperatures.

Latex caulk is better suited for non-wet areas, such as interior drywall. These caulks are more accessible to apply than silicone and dry faster, making them ideal for ceiling or quick indoor drywall repairs. But, they are not as long-lasting & water-resistant compared to silicones.

So if you are working on the drywall in wet areas, then it is recommended to use silicone caulk. It will give you better protection from water and moisture damage in the long run. For indoor drywall repair, either type of caulk can be used depending on the job.

How to Choose the Best Caulk for Drywall Cracks?

When it comes to caulking drywall cracks, there are a few things you need to keep in mind to choose the proper caulk for the job:

Application Area

When choosing a caulk for drywall cracks, the first step is determining where the crack is located. If it’s in an area that gets wet, like around a sink or shower, you’ll want to choose a waterproof caulk like silicone caulk. For cracks in other areas, any type of caulk will do.

If you fail to choose the right caulk for a wet area, you risk compromising the water-resistant properties of that space. So make sure to choose wisely.

Types of Caulk

Once you’ve identified the application area, it’s time to decide on a type of caulk based on its ingredients and properties.

If you’re looking for a stronger fix, try using clear silicone caulk. It’s easy to apply and dries moderately, making it a great option for small holes. But remember that silicone caulk is not paintable, so it may stand out if you have colored walls.

For large holes or gaps, latex caulk is a better option. It’s more forgiving than silicone caulk, so it’s easier to work with, and it can be painted over once it dries. But latex caulk is not as waterproof, so wait until it sets before painting.

No matter which type of caulk you choose, be sure to read the instructions carefully before beginning your project.

Durability

When it comes to repairing holes & cracks, durability is key. A good quality caulk will last longer and can withstand extreme temperatures without cracking or deforming.

Choose a product with a longer shelf-life and high-performance ratings. Also, look for a caulk that is mold and mildew-resistant, as this will help keep your walls protected from further damage.

Quantity of Caulk

Once you’ve selected the right caulk for your project, it’s important to get enough of it. Measure the crack and buy more than you think you need in case some of it gets wasted during application.

Hairline cracks can usually be sealed with acrylic caulk, while large holes may require foam insulation backing to stabilize. It’s also a good idea to check the expiration date before purchasing a fresh tube of caulk, as old caulk can dry out and be less effective.

Drying Time

The drying time of the caulk is also an important consideration. Acrylic caulk typically dries within 4 to 24 hours, while silicone caulk can take up to 12 to 48 hours to fully cure. If you need to use the repair area immediately, acrylic caulk is the better choice.

But, if you can wait a day or two, silicone caulk will provide a stronger and more durable repair. Caulk should be selected to dry within less time if children live close to your working area. Ultimately, it just depends on your needs and preferences.

Waterproofing

Caulking is integral to waterproofing your home, but knowing which type of caulk to use for each job can be confusing. Use a caulk labeled as waterproof to prevent water from entering your wall.

Silicone caulk is the most popular option because it can resist heat and water, making it ideal for areas like showers or sinks. But remember that silicone caulk cannot be painted over, so if you have colored walls, latex caulk may be the better choice.

No matter what type of caulk you choose, read the instructions carefully and give it plenty of time to dry before painting or sanding. If done correctly, caulking is a great method for preventing water damage and drafts while adding a touch of beauty.

Reasons Why You Should Caulk Drywall Cracks?

Most people know that small cracks can be unsightly, but many don’t realize that cracks can also lead to serious problems. Here are just a few of the reasons why drywall cracks need to be caulked: 

Caulking prevents water damage: Cracks in walls are often the result of water seepage, and if left unchecked, these cracks can cause serious water damage. By caulking, the cracks will create a barrier preventing water from seeping through.

Caulking keeps bugs out: Insects are attracted to moisture, so if you have any cracks in your walls, there’s a good chance that insects will find their way in. Caulking will help to seal up these entry points and keep bugs out.

Caulking helps to prevent mold: Mold loves damp environments, hence if your house has cracks that allow moisture to seep through, you could be at risk for mold growth. Caulking will help to create a barrier against moisture, preventing mold from taking hold.

Caulking improves appearance: Caulking drywall small holes & cracks can enhance the appearance of your walls and make your home look more polished. If you’re planning on selling your home, caulking the hairline cracks is a great way to boost curb appeal.

When Should You Not Use Caulking on Drywall Cracks?

Most people caulk their drywall cracks to prevent moisture and pests from entering their homes. Unfortunately, there are some moments when caulking should be avoided.

When the crack is actively leaking water: In this case, the caulking will simply wash away and must be replaced regularly. So wait before applying caulk until the leak has been fixed.

When the crack is too large or too deep: If the crack is more than a quarter inch wide or deep, caulking will not do the trick. You’ll need to use a different repair method, such as patching the area with a joint drywall compound or filling it with epoxy.

When the crack is located in a high-traffic area: Caulk is not very durable, so it’s not ideal for fixing drywall cracks in high-traffic areas. These areas are better suited for patching or epoxy repairs.

When the temp changes: Caulk can become brittle and crack in fluctuating temperatures, so it’s best to avoid using it in areas where the temperature varies widely (such as near windows or doors).

When the drywall crack is still wet: If the drywall crack is filled with water, caulking will simply cause the water to become trapped, which can lead to mold growth. Also, caulking will not bond well to wet surfaces, so likely, the repair will not last long.

How Can You Properly Maintain Your Caulked Drywall Crack?

If you have a drywall crack that is filled with the best caulk for drywall cracks, periodically check the caulked crack to determine if it has shrunk or if there are any cracks in the caulk. You can do this by running your finger along the crack. If you feel any cracks in the caulk, you will need to apply more caulk to the area.

It is also advisable to verify that there has not been any accumulation of dirt or debris on the caulked drywall crack. If you see any dust, you should remove it with a soft brush. Also, you need to inspect the caulked drywall crack for any gaps or voids. You should caulk the area again if you see any gaps or voids.

Regularly checking and maintaining your caulked drywall cracks will help ensure that the caulk is doing its job and keeping moisture and pests out of your home.

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