How to caulk between wall and skirting?

maro

hi I’m trying to caulk the gaps between the skirting board and the wall and I know that I’m only supposed to get it in the gaps and not on the skirting board itself or the walls, but I’m finding it quite hard to avoid . Even when I wipe it off there will still be a little bit left on the skirting board and the wall. If I wiped too hard and I end up removing some of the caulk in the gaps!. And I’m wondering how accurate do I have to be because it is the paintable sellys no more gaps and I thought that should be fine, but now I’m a bit worried.

also this is the third time I’m going over it. my third layer of bead. it keeps drying and then looking like it’s sinking and I’m afraid it will create a dust trap. 
does anyone have any tips?

thank you!!!!

MitchellMc

A little bit on the skirting and wall is fine, especially if you'll be painting afterwards, @maro. I'd wait 24 hours for the existing caulk to dry fully. That will give you a stable base to apply your final coat over. Lay a decent-sized bead along the area, then spritz it with some water with a little dish soap added. Take your wet finger or a silicone caulking tool and drag it across the surface, smoothing the caulk out and creating a nice cove transition. The soapy water is what prevents the caulk from being dragged out. If you haven't been wetting your finger, you'll love how easy it is once you do.

If this gap is quite large, you can push some backing rod into it around 5mm below the surface to help prevent your caulk from sinking.

Here's a helpful guide: How to apply silicone sealant.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell