Seasonal contraction and expansion causes cracks to appear in your home’s drywall. Something that will affect its appearance and expose your home to more damage.
Unfortunately, fixing such cracks isn’t simple, especially if you don’t have the right products. Besides, unlike large cracks, you can’t use tape and drywall mud to patch them.
Interestingly, there’s one simple solution that will give you incredible results. That is; using the best caulk for filling cracks in drywall. Thanks to its ability to penetrate the cracks and leave a paintable surface on drying.
Even better, this compound delivers a flexible, water-resistant coating. Not to forget that it’s ideal for filling joints, ceilings, walls, corners, etc…
Quick round-up table with our top 5 choices:
| Image | Name | Rating | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
Gorilla Adhesive for Drywall Construction |
5 out of 5 |
Check On Amazon | |
| Sashco Big Stretch Caulk for drywall cracks |
5 out of 5 |
Check On Amazon | ||
 |
Dap Elastomeric Patch and Caulking Compound |
4.5 out of 5 |
Check On Amazon | |
 |
Gorilla Heavy Duty Drywall Construction Adhesive |
4.5 out of 5 |
Check On Amazon | |
 |
Flex Shot Rubber Adhesive Sealant Caulk |
4.5 out of 5 |
Check On Amazon |
To read about our product selection procedure, visit the “About” page.
10 Best Caulk for Drywall Cracks (Reviews)
As you’d expect though, there are several kinds of caulks, but not all types adhere to drywall. So, which drywall crack caulk do you even use? Well, in this exclusive review article, we’ve selected nothing but the best caulks for filling drywall cracks.
Here they are!
1. Gorilla Adhesive for Drywall Construction
Over the years, Gorilla Glue has cemented itself as the best manufacturer of adhesives. Their products provide superior performance, yet they come at a reasonable price. Well, their Ultimate Construction Caulk is no different!
Besides, it’s considered the best entry-level caulk for newcomers to the adhesive field. Apart from being manufactured by a well-known brand, this adhesive has many exceptional qualities.
To start, it is suitable for various applications, including filling drywall cracks. On the same note, it’s ideal for use in other materials like wood, stone, fiberglass, concrete, and ceramic.
Better still, this silicone sealant can resist water and various weather elements. As such, you can either use it for outdoor or indoor projects. As an example, it provides excellent seals for doors, windows, gutters, and more.
In other words, you can use it for other things apart from fixing drywall cracks.
Also, due to its water-resistant nature, it adheres to underwater surfaces. Yet it has an instant grab formula, meaning it takes 0 seconds to adhere to the surface. Moreover, it comes in 9 oz. cartridge tube, so it’s quite simple to dispense.
Apart from the fact that this formula isn’t sandable, it doesn’t have any other drawbacks. Nonetheless, it has exceptional capabilities to adhere to surfaces and fill gaps. More notably, it guarantees a durable, strong bond that isn’t susceptible to shrinkage.
Highlighted Features:
- Instant grab
- Non-foam white formula
- Free from water & solvents (100% adhesive)
- Paintable within 15 minutes of application
- Weatherproof & water-resistant
- Resists mildew & mold growth
- Ideal for outdoor and indoor caulking projects
Drawbacks:
- Not sandable
2. Sashco 10016 Big Stretch Caulk for drywall cracks
As the phrase ‘Big Stretch’ implies, this caulk has an extremely high level of flexibility. To be precise, it can stretch more than 500% of its original size. That way, it can tolerate splitting or cracking due to movements and slides that occur over time.
Hence making it one of the most flexible caulk for filling drywall cracks. There is more to this acrylic sealant though other than its elasticity!
First, it can adhere to a wide range of surfaces including windows and vinyl siding. And you can even use it on doors, eaves, drywalls, and baseboards. Another great property is that it has excellent tolerance to UV rays.
This helps it to protect any surface from weather elements for a long time. More importantly, it’s suitable for filling gaps, giving them an eye-catchy look.
Moving on, this sealant is easy to clean up with water and emits a low odor. On top of that, it’s simple to dispense since it’s available in a convenient 10.5 oz cartridge tube. You just need a cartridge gun and you can easily apply it to any outdoor or indoor crevice.
However, it’s suitable for use in areas that regularly come into contact with water like tubs and pools. After application, this water-based formula will dry up fast. As such, you’ll not have to wait for long for the caulk to dry. Surprisingly, even with its fast-drying nature, it adheres well to the surface. And it’s quite durable & paintable.
Highlighted Features:
- Superior flexibility
- Adheres to different surfaces
- Idea for exterior & interior applications
- Suitable for repairing existing cracks
- Weather-resistant and incredible paintability
Drawbacks:
- Attracts dust and dirt, hence the need to paint over it
3. Dap 12276 Elastomeric Patch and Caulking Compound
Unlike the product we’ve checked out so far, Dap 12276 isn’t just a caulk. Instead, it’s a caulking compound that you can use to patch and repair any recurring crack in your drywall. Best of all, it’s very flexible, helping it resist cracks after application.
It’s also worth noting that this formula is manufactured in the USA. Therefore, it complies with all the country standards, making it safe to use in any state. It delivers superior performance when filling gaps in drywall.
That’s right. Like other high-quality sealants, this formula adheres to several materials. Some of these materials are; plaster, drywall, masonry, and even brick. In other words, you can simply apply it to any smooth surface that requires a flexible and permanent fill.
Regarding the packaging, Dap 12276 comes in 10.1 oz. cartridge can. This ensures that you’ll get enough caulking compound that you can use for various projects. Also, this packaging makes it extremely simple to use since you just need a cartridge gun to dispense.
Cleaning up this white compound after the application is quite simple as well. You just need some warm water and you’re set to go. However, regardless of being easy to clean up, this formula doesn’t flash paint. Instead, it has superior paintability.
Moreover, you can either use it for exterior or interior projects.
All things considered, this compound is such a great sealant for filling cracks and joints. So, feel free to use it to hide drywall cracks or joints, instead of using molding.
Highlighted Features:
- Superior flexibility and paintability
- Doesn’t crack or shrink
- Ideal for multiple applications
- Designed for smoother surfaces
- Offers a permanent fill
Drawbacks:
- Cannot be sanded
4. Gorilla Heavy Duty Drywall Construction Adhesive
As we said earlier, Gorilla is one of the most popular manufacturers of adhesives in the market. So, don’t be surprised that another one of their adhesives has made it on our list. This heavy-duty adhesive is very strong and it bonds almost every material you can think of!
To sum things up, it’s a versatile product that will fulfill all your adhesive needs.
Another thing you should know about this formula is that it’s both waterproof and durable. And it works all-weather, making it one of the most versatile adhesives out there. Simply put, you can use it for various applications, whether in indoor or outdoor projects.
Also, it forms strong bonds with foam board, drywall, masonry, mirrors, and plastics.
Regardless of its strength, this non-foam formula doesn’t emit strong smells. Instead, it has a low odor, allowing you to apply it comfortably even when using it indoors. More importantly, it’s 100% adhesive since it doesn’t contain solvents or water.
Besides, it’s incredibly strong that it will glue everything together in just 30 seconds. But if you’re planning to sand or paint over the applied sealant, you’ll have to wait for about 48 hours. Bottom line, if you want an adhesive that guarantees a heavy-duty bond, consider investing in this product. It’s a perfect option for home repair, improvement projects, and construction sites.
Highlighted Features:
- Low odor & VOC-approved
- 9 oz cartridge can
- White, non-foam formula
- Weatherproof and fast drying time
- Highly versatile
Drawbacks:
- A little difficult to apply
5. Flex Shot Mildew Resistant Rubber Adhesive Sealant
Up to this point, every caulk we’ve reviewed requires a caulk gun to apply. Well, that’s not the case with this Flex Shot rubber adhesive! Instead, you just need to flex the tip and the caulk will come out smoothly.
Even better, it includes an extension tube, which makes it easy to apply in hard-to-reach areas. This innovation reduces wastage and ensures your project comes out clean and neat. On the same note, its formula doesn’t drip or run during application.
Talking of the formula, the Flex shot adhesive features a thick texture. This allows it to fill large and small holes and cracks with ease. Not forgetting that this rubber formula provides a durable bead that can last for more than 30 years.
You’ll also note that Flex shot dries at a much faster rate than other sealants. To be precise, it just takes 20 minutes to dry to touch.
However, for it to cure fully, it will take about 48 to 72 hours. On drying, this formula will leave you with an indestructible, stretchable rubber. Also, it’s both water- and mildew resistant. Hence making it suitable for interior/ exterior applications.
These applications include sealing windows, boats, PVC pipes, gutters & roofs, baths, kitchens. Besides, it works on drywall, fiberglass, metal, wood, stone, porcelain, and more.
Even with all these great features, Flex Shot rubber caulk is quite affordable. However, it requires adequate ventilation during application since it emits a strong odor.
Highlighted Features:
- Available in 4 different colors (black, white, clean & almond)
- Completely waterproof
- Bonds seals and caulks on most surfaces
- Doesn’t run/ drip during application
- Waterproof and mildew-resistant
- Includes an extension tube
Drawbacks:
- Hard to clean up since it isn’t water-soluble
- Produces a strong odor
6. 3M Fire Barrier Sealant for All-purpose Applications
3M provides various products that meet the most demanding requirements for fire protection. One such product is the CP 25WB+ fire barrier sealant. If you apply this sealant properly, you’ll get up to 4-hour fire protection in listed and tested systems.
For that, it’s suitable for use in residential, commercial, and industrial applications. What makes this sealant so effective in fire protection?
For starters, this latex-based formula can tolerate extremely high temperatures. In its cured state, it can expand up to 3 times its initial volume when exposed to heat above 100 deg Fahrenheit. While maintaining an extremely strong adhesion to the surface.
Moreover, its ability to bond and caulk various substrates is outstanding. Some of the materials it adheres to include; wood, concrete, metal, and plastics. Therefore, you can either use it in floor or wall applications.
Getting back to fire protection, this sealant forms a monolithic seal on drying. This forms a barrier that prevents the transmission of sound, smoke, and other gases. Moreover, this helps in preventing the spread of fire during and after a fire accident.
With that in mind, applying this water-based formula is quite simple. Thanks to the convenient 10.1 oz cartridge tube it comes with. Moreover, it has a ready-to-use formula, meaning no mixing is needed.
The only issue you’ll encounter with this caulk is that it is red on drying. Thankfully, it’s paintable, so you can paint over it with your preferred color.
Highlighted Features:
- High-performance, latex-based formula
- Strong adhesion
- Repairable and re-enterable
- Paintable
- Easy to clean up & apply
- Excellent fire resistance
- Unique red color
Drawbacks:
- No cons noticed
7. Red Devil 0805 Crack Patch Premium Acrylic Spackling
Unlike most caulks, spackling compounds are both sandable and paintable. Well, this one from Red Devil is no exception. So, if you want a filler material that you can shape and mold with sandpaper on drying, it’s a great option.
Besides, this acrylic spackling meets the performance of the best caulk for drywall corners. For instance, it’s suitable for repairing cracks and holes in drywall. Besides, that’s not the only surface it adheres to! Instead, it works on other materials like bricks, stucco, wood, and plaster.
Even better, it provides exceptional results with cinder block, glass, and aluminum.
It’s also worth mentioning that Red Devil 0805 acrylic spackling doesn’t come in a cartridge tube. Instead, it’s packaged in a 163 ml squeeze tube, helping you cover all nail holes and cracks in no time. This makes it the second product on our list that can be applied without a caulk gun.
On application, this formula tends to dry up fast, so you’ve to work fast as well. Otherwise, this spackle may become hard and dry out before you get the task done. Also, make sure you stir the formula before use to get the desired results.
Overall, this spackling paste offers excellent performance, both in interior and exterior applications. More notably, it spreads smoothly and doesn’t crumble or flake during application. Therefore, you can use it to make fast drywall repairs without needing extra help.
Highlighted Features:
- Suitable for multiple applications
- Paintable & sandable
- Easy to clean up with water and soap
- Resists shrinking
- Dries up fast
Drawbacks:
- Requires priming before paint application
8. DAP White Dynaflex Premium Sealant for Drywall
DYNAFLEX 230 delivers excellent crack-proof performance and flexibility. So it’s another great sealant for filling drywall cracks. As a result, it can expand and contract without losing its seal or cracking. Besides, you’ll get a lifetime warranty from the manufacturer once you buy this sealant.
The most unique feature of this sealant though is its ability to fill large cracks and joints. To be precise, it can seal gaps that are up to 2” wide. For that reason, it’s considered the best paintable caulk for drywall cracks and holes.
Interestingly, it has incredible adhesion to various materials. Apart from drywall, you can use it on other building materials. These include; polystyrene, wood, PVC, composite trim board, and MDF. Besides, it’s easy to apply since it comes in a convenient 5.5 oz squeeze tube.
On the same note, it’s easy to smooth with the necessary tools. Not to forget that you can easily clean it up with soapy water.
Regarding the drying time, this formula takes around 1 hour to dry to the touch. But it requires at least 24 hours to cure fully. So, avoid exposing it to excess water before that duration. However, you can paint over it just 2 hours after application.
All in all, this white sealant is an excellent option for indoor and outdoor applications. More notably, it has incredible resistance to mildew and mold that are liable for harmful health impacts. All these factors will help to prevent discoloration, cracking, and shrinking.
Highlighted Features:
- 100% weatherproof and waterproof seal
- Resists discoloration, shrinking & cracking
- Easy water clean-up
- Ideal for exterior and interior use
- Paintable in 2 hours after application
- Low odor
- Superior flexibility
- Seals cracks of up to 2-inches wide
Drawbacks:
- A little pricey
9. HENKEL CORPORATION PowerGrab Ultimate Adhesive
Henkel Corp is one of the most popular adhesive brands in the world that was established in 1876. Over the years, they’ve manufactured great products including this Power Grab Ultimate adhesive. So, if you want a well-known brand that’s trusted by experts, Power Grab is your go-to product! Why choose this adhesive?
First, this formula is an incredibly strong, heavy-duty bonding agent. But its most unique feature is that it has an instant grab formula. You don’t have to wait a long time between drying since it adheres to the surface in 0 seconds. However, you can still reposition your surface 10 minutes after applying the adhesive.
Moving on, Power Grab is a highly versatile construction adhesive. It works in all weather conditions, making it ideal for indoor and outdoor projects. On the same note, it adheres to wet surfaces and can tolerate temperatures ranging from 40 to 140 deg F.
Still, on versatility, this adhesive works on any materials you can think of. It has outstanding adhesion on concrete, ceramic, drywall, metal, wood, and most plastics. Moreover, unlike most construction adhesives, it can bond 2 non-porous surfaces.
However, you cannot use this formula in marine applications or underwater projects. Other than that, it’s one of the most versatile adhesives out there at the moment.
Highlighted Features:
- Has a white color on drying
- Water-resistant
- Can be applied on wet surfaces
- Instant grab formulation
- Works in severe temperatures ranging from 40 to 140 deg F.
- Compatible with non-porous and porous materials
Drawbacks:
- Not suitable for marine and underwater applications
10. Red Devil 0779 General Purpose Construction Adhesive
Last on this list is yet another product from the Red Devil brand. But unlike the model we reviewed earlier, 0776 adhesive is a general-purpose formula. So apart from sealing drywall cracks, it’s suitable for virtually any project. Especially on surfaces that require a reliable and durable bonding agent.
You heard that right! This adhesive can handle most construction jobs out there. And since it resists weather elements, it’s suitable for landscape block and paver projects.
As for materials, it works on drywall, polyurethane, ceramic tile, slate, and hardboard. Also, you can use it on metal, concrete, masonry, plastic, foamboard, wood floors, and paneling.
Regardless of having a powerful formula, this adhesive is free from ozone-depleting chemicals. Instead, it’s made of eco-friendly ingredients, making it safe to use in any surrounding. Moreover, it guarantees excellent performance and it’s ASTM C-557 & AFG-04 certified.
On top of that, this formula doesn’t have any solvent, so it’s VOC compliant. Besides, it’s non-flammable and freeze/ thaw resistant.
Finally, this multipurpose adhesive comes in a 28 oz. cartridge tube. Therefore, you’ll get enough sealant to handle various indoor and outdoor projects.
Better still, this makes it simple to dispense since you just need a caulking gun. Moreover, it’s easy to clean up with soapy water and you can even sand it 24 hours after application.
Highlighted Features:
- Sandable 24 hours after application
- Easy water clean up
- Forms a strong bond with multiple surfaces
- Ideal for exterior/ interior use
- Eco-friendly, VOC compliant formula
- Weather-resistant and non-flammable
- Professional grade formula
- Freeze & thaw resistant
Drawbacks:
- Requires a caulking gun to apply
Drywall Crack Caulk Buying Guide
With so many caulks in the market, choosing the best caulk for sheetrock can be consuming. Hence the need to consider certain factors before you settle on a certain sealant. Some of those factors may include;
Type of sealant
Although there are many types of caulks, not every product can fill drywall cracks. That’s why you should always choose the major types of sealing agents. That is; silicone caulk, acrylic latex caulk, and rubber caulk.
Each of these products will hide all cracks and get your filling job done efficiently. However, it’s still good to understand some of their key differences.
Let’s start with rubber caulk, which isn’t so popular among DIYers. Unlike silicone/ acrylic latex caulk, this sealant isn’t good for filling drywall cracks.
Nonetheless, it’s suitable for filling cracks in brick, metal, and concrete. One of those features is that it’s paintable to match the surrounding areas. That leaves us with 2 of the most popular caulk for fixing drywall cracks; acrylic latex and silicone!
In most cases, silicone caulk isn’t paintable, but it has excellent water- and mold resistance. Also, it works on various materials including non-porous surfaces. For that, it’s an excellent option for use in areas that are regularly exposed to water.
Acrylic latex caulk, on the other hand, is paintable and available in various colors. So, if you don’t intend to paint over the dried caulk, you can always choose a color match. More notably, acrylic latex caulks are easy to clean up with water.
And they’re ideal for indoor and outdoor applications. However, avoid using it in areas that are regularly wet like bathrooms and kitchen.
Size
From the best caulks for drywall cracks above, you’ll note that the products have different sizes. Some come in 10.1 oz and 28 oz. cartridge tubes, while others are available in 5.5 oz. squeeze tube. In essence, you should choose a caulk, based on the size of your project.
For instance, if you intend to handle a small project, choose a smaller caulking or squeeze tube. This will help you save money since most caulking tubes are hard to close after use. As a result, the caulk will dry out before you use it again.
Ease of use
Drywall crack caulks should be easy to dispense and spread on the drywall. Ideally, the formula should not be too thick or too thin. This is because a very thick formula does not spread with ease. While a very thin formula will drip or run during application.
Another thing that determines how easy the product is to apply is the packaging. In general, caulks come in squeeze tubes and cartridge tubes. Luckily, both options make it easy to dispense the formula, but the latter involves the use of a caulk gun.
Versatility
Lastly, look for a caulk that adheres to other materials apart from drywall. This will give you value and makes the sealant suitable for various applications. Simply put, the best caulk should seal and adhere to many materials.
This may include; granite, wood, metal, stone, and more. On the same note, it should be ideal for handling both outdoor and indoor projects.
Caulk vs. Drywall Mud: What’s Best for Drywall Cracks?
Drywall doesn’t easily crack like plaster walls, yet it’s lighter, cheaper, and easier to install. However, it will eventually develop cracks due to various factors.
One of the most common techniques of patching those cracks is applying drywall mud. However, this can be a very tedious and expensive process. For instance, you’ve to prepare the surface and finish the surface after applying the drywall mud.
To sum things up, this will make your repair project more expensive. So, look for an alternative solution, especially when dealing with drywall cracks. Well, this is where having the best caulk for drywall comes in handy.
Applying caulk to drywall cracks is a relatively simple and fast process since you just need a few tools. Use a caulking tool to smooth the applied caulk before it dries. Alternatively, you can apply the caulk into the joint or crack with your finger.
Next, wipe down the excess compound with a clean, damp cloth and leave it to cure.
Final Words
Caulks provide the flexibility needed to fill and seal cracks or holes in drywall. Also, they ensure that the surface remains appealing to the eye by hiding unsightly cracks. At the same time, they’re versatile, making them ideal for fixing gaps and cracks in various surfaces.
Fortunately, there are various incredible options out there, and we’ve reviewed them in detail. That way, you can easily choose a product that is suitable for your drywall filling needs.
Just make sure you check out our detailed buying guide before you settle on any caulk. More importantly, check the instructions given on the cartridges or squeeze tubes before you use them.
Frequently Asked Questions about Drywall Caulks
1. Can you caulk between the wall and ceiling?
Various factors can cause a gap to develop between the ceiling and drywall. For instance, it may be caused by uneven settlement of the building over time. Luckily, you can use 1/8” of caulk bead to fix this gap.
2. Can you apply drywall mud over silicone?
Typically, drywall mud doesn’t adhere to silicone. However, an all-purpose joint compound may adhere to latex caulk.
3. Can I use caulk to fix drywall cracks?
Caulk is a flexible material, helping it to tolerate a slight settlement. Also, it bonds to various surfaces including drywall, making it a great option for fixing drywall cracks.
4. Does Flex Seal work on Sheetrock?
Flex Seal liquid rubber sealants are suitable for various indoor and outdoor projects. Thanks to its ability to adhere to multiple surfaces including sheetrock, wood, tile, glass, rubber, and more.
5. What kind of drywall caulk is paintable?
Latex/ acrylic caulk is the easiest type of caulk to paint. For that, it delivers excellent results, especially when used in indoor paint jobs.
