Use painter’s caulk in wood trim joints that have cracks and openings

Question:

I am completing some interior painting projects and have had problems in the past with painting the wood molding between the wall and the ceiling. When there is a small gap between the wood and the ceiling it shows up as a large black line or gap. I have tried to spackle these gaps in the past with no success. What will work?

Answer:

I like to use painter’s caulk in wood trim joints that have cracks and openings. Painters caulk is easy to use – usually a water based product. Don’t use silicone caulk because it may not hold paint.

To fill the joints, simply apply a small bead of caulk. I like to smooth the caulk with my finger dipped in soapy water. You can create a smooth joint that is easy to paint and will move as the wood expands and contracts to eliminate future cracks.

I also use caulk for small cracks in plaster and drywall and to caulk corner joints that have opened up. On a textured wall I will poke, rub, dab, slide, and otherwise manipulate the caulk surface to match the texture.