How to use interior frame silicone sealant

[VegemiteSandwich]

Here's hoping this is an easy question!

The last job in the latest project is to fill the gap between the wall and the windows (uPVC). I removed most of the sealant when I removed the wallpaper - the windows are a newer addition than the wallpaper and Anglian-sodding-windows put frame sealant over the top of the wallpaper.

Anyway, there remains a small gap and I thought it'd be a quick job before dinner.

For some daft reason I thought I'd read the instructions. It tells me to use masking tape and (shock!!!!) "do not use a wetted finger". I thought I'd apply it in much the same way I would caulk???

What we have is "home base Exterior and interior frame silicone sealant". I must admit I'm a bit of a snob about homemade products, but the husband picked it up, it is at least white as requested and I'm sure it doesn't really matter.

So do I really need to follow the instructions? I don't use masking tape to paint, do I really need I for sealant?

 

[gregers]

no not really,but it depends on how steady you are when you do the run,when i use any kind of sealant i cut the nossle at about 45 degrees and then when the run is complete if i have to will just wet my finger and run it down gently.

 

[DHFrames]

If you want a neat finish then use masking tape!
5 sec job

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• DHFrames
• 2 Mar 2014
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• DHFrames
• 2 Mar 2014
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• DHFrames
• 2 Mar 2014
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[rjm2k]

If it's between plaster and the frame I prefer to use polyfilla rather than silicone as you can paint right up to the frame and less likely to go mouldy

 

[VegemiteSandwich]

Thanks everyone, I appreciate your advice.

I did use masking tape in the end, and I'm happy with the result, it looks fairly neat. Also, a wet dinner knife gave a nice finish without having to lick my fingers (which invariably results in me eating the stuff).

I think if I had the same situation again I'd consider using something different, doing it first and then painting over it. Though hopefully I won't have to worry - this room was wallpaper-tastic. The others "only" have feature walls and such like.