Best Caulk for Stainless Steel: A Comprehensive Guide
If your stainless steel sink or dishwasher is showing signs of age, you may need to do some caulking to close any gaps and prevent moisture from getting inside. We’ve found that the best caulk for stainless steel is silicone that’s rated to withstand high temperatures (up to 500°F) so it can form a watertight seal around a sink drain. Here are the best silicone caulk products for your job.
| # | Name | Preview | Rating | Action |
| 1 | Gorilla Waterproof Caulk & Seal 100% Silicone Sealant, 10oz Cartr |  | 9.6 | |
| 2 | Caulk Cap CCY-2, 2-Pack, Yellow, 2 Count |  | 9.5 | |
| 3 | Red Devil 0405 Duraguard Kitchen & Bath Siliconized Acrylic Caulk |  | 8.7 | |
| 4 | Dap Inc 18152 6 Pack 10.1 oz. Alex Plus Acrylic Latex Caulk Plus |  | 8.6 | |
| 5 | Gorilla Waterproof Caulk & Seal 100% Silicone Sealant, 10oz Cartr |  | 8.5 |
Methods We Used to Analyze
First, we sealed the edges of a few test pieces with each caulk. We ran our finger along the edge and then pried the caulk off with a flat-edge screwdriver. We also checked for any residue left behind by each caulk.
To see how flexible each caulk was, we used a small putty knife to slide the caulk from the top edge down to the bottom of the door frame—a task that requires a great deal of flexibility. We also tested how easy it was to smooth out any imperfections by slowly applying pressure along the caulk, starting a few inches below the top of the door frame and moving down toward the bottom.
We then placed the caulk between two stainless-steel test plates (each about 1 foot long by 4 inches wide) and pried them apart to see how strong each caulk was at preventing leaks between two flat surfaces. To check for any leaks, we simply pushed the plates together and checked for any gaps or other problems.
Finally, we used a heat gun to heat up a roughly 2-foot section of each caulk, checking to see if it started to sag or get sticky as it melted.
Gorilla Waterproof Caulk & Seal 100% Silicone Sealant, 10oz Cartr
Why Should You Invest in It
If your project involves sealing stainless steel (for example, sealing a stainless steel refrigerator), we recommend Gorilla Waterproof Caulk and Seal. This calk is designed to maintain a watertight seal in the harshest conditions, even when exposed to saltwater for extended periods of time.
It also cures completely in only 30 minutes, so you can use it to seal a leaky pipe overnight. The calk is rated for use indoors and outdoors, in all weather. It’s 100% waterproof, resists mold and mildew, and never yellows, shrinks, or cracks over time.
It comes in both clear and white (you get two cartridges in the box), and you can buy it in bulk. We recommend this calk for a wide variety of projects, including sealing a stainless steel refrigerator or freezer; sealing around a leaky window, door, or pipe; sealing around kitchen and bathroom plumbing; and sealing in a gutter.
It’s also great for sealing around an underwater pipe, a marine application (like a water pump), or even a vehicle.
Caulk Cap CCY-2, 2-Pack, Yellow, 2 Count
Why Should You Invest in It
The Caulk Cap CCY-2 is a simple yet effective tool: It seals down a new tube of caulk, and the built-in puncture mechanism gets the job started. We’ve tested a lot of caulk caps, and this one provides the best balance of features at a reasonable price.
But, like other caulk caps, it doesn’t seal the tube airtight, so you’ll need a separate clamp to get the job done right. The Caulk Cap CCY-2 is also nonstick, which makes it easier to clean after use.
It’s a small detail, but it does make a big difference. This caulk cap also lets you use an expensive specialty caulk without having to buy a new tube every time.
Red Devil 0405 Duraguard Kitchen & Bath Siliconized Acrylic Caulk
Why Should You Invest in It
The Red Devil 0405 Duraguard Siliconized Acrylic Caulk is the best choice for stainless steel because it’s the easiest to apply and it’s good at resisting discoloration over time.
It’s also very good at adhering to many kitchen and bathroom surfaces. The straw-like applicator tip makes it simple to create a professional-looking repair. It’s also the easiest to clean up, since it’s water-soluble.
The fact that it’s paintable means it can be matched to any desired color.
Dap Inc 18152 6 Pack 10.1 oz. Alex Plus Acrylic Latex Caulk Plus
Why Should You Invest in It
The Dap Alex Plus All Purpose Acrylic Latex Caulk Plus Silicone (18152) is a great all-purpose caulking option. In our tests, it provided an airtight, waterproof seal with less shrinkage than other caulk we tested.
It’s paintable in 30 minutes, it’s inexpensive, and it doesn’t shine through or discolor paint finishes like most other caulks do. It’s also easy to apply and tool, low in odor, and water cleanup is a breeze. The company’s website has helpful instructional videos that explain how to install the product properly.
We’ve used it for multiple projects over the last couple of years and have had no problems so far. One test panel member told us that Dap Alex Plus was the best caulk she’d ever used.
Gorilla Waterproof Caulk & Seal 100% Silicone Sealant, 10oz Cartr
Why Should You Invest in It
The Gorilla Waterproof Caulk and Seal 100% Silicone Sealant is a great choice for sealing all sorts of gaps in your home. It’s formulated to be 100 percent waterproof, and it dries clear in 30 minutes to create a clear and tough barrier.
The clear version of this caulk is all-weather, so you can use it indoors and outdoors, and it won’t yellow, shrink, or crack over time. The white version has the same great waterproofing, but it won’t do as well in high-humidity environments.
If you want, you can buy the white caulk in either a 10- or 30-ounce cartridge.
Things to Keep in Mind
We talked to experts, read reviews and guides, and looked for recommendations from staff at steel mills, but we also drew on our own experience. We considered the following criteria:
Ability To Bond To Stainless Steel
Caulk should ideally be formulated to bond well with stainless steel. That means it should have some amount of zinc or zinc chloride in it.
Zinc acts as a catalyst to help other chemicals bond with stainless steel. But too much can make the caulk brittle. Zinc chloride, which is toxic when inhaled, is more effective at binding but also more hazardous.
Caulks that are not designed specifically for stainless steel may still bond if you apply enough force. This type of bonding is technically known as adhesion and often happens accidentally with regular silicone sealant.
The ability to bond well with stainless steel helps a caulk last longer, look better, and perform its function better—it’s not just about aesthetics.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What type of caulk is best suited for use on stainless steel?
Siliconized acrylic caulk is the best type of caulk for use on stainless steel.
Does the caulk need to be specifically formulated for use on stainless steel?
Yes, the caulk should be specifically formulated for use on stainless steel in order to ensure proper adhesion and protection.
What features should I look for in a caulk that is best for use on stainless steel?
When choosing a caulk for stainless steel, you should look for one that is waterproof, UV-resistant, flexible, and able to withstand extreme temperatures. It should also be compatible with the type of stainless steel you are working with. Additionally, you should look for one that is paintable and provides an airtight seal.
Are there any special techniques required to properly apply caulk to stainless steel?
Yes, there are some special techniques required to properly apply caulk to stainless steel. First, the surface must be clean and free of any dirt, dust, or debris. It is best to use a stainless steel cleaner or a mild detergent and warm water to clean the surface. Next, a high-quality silicone caulk should be chosen for the job. It is important to use a caulk specifically designed for use on stainless steel, as regular caulk can cause corrosion. Make sure to cut the nozzle of the tube at a 45° angle and use a steady pressure when squeezing the caulk onto the surface. After the caulk is applied, it should be smoothed with a damp cloth or a caulk tool. Finally, the caulk should be allowed to cure for the length of time specified on the label before coming into contact with water or moisture.
Are there any special considerations that need to be taken into account when using caulk on stainless steel?
Yes, there are some special considerations to keep in mind when using caulk on stainless steel. It is important to use a caulk that is specifically designed for stainless steel as regular caulk may not adhere properly. Additionally, it is important to thoroughly clean the stainless steel surface before applying caulk to ensure a strong bond. Finally, it is important to ensure that the caulk is applied in even layers and smoothed out to prevent any gaps or air pockets.
