Calking: meaning, definitions and examples

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calking

 

[ ˈkɔː.kɪŋ ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

construction material

Calking refers to a material used to seal joints or seams against leakage in various structures and constructions. It can be made from various substances, including rubber, plastic, or metal, and is typically used in building maintenance, plumbing, and shipbuilding. Calking prevents water and air from entering gaps or holes, ensuring structural integrity and improving energy efficiency. It can also serve aesthetic purposes by providing a neat finish to surfaces.

Synonyms

caulking, filler, sealant.

Examples of usage

  • The contractor used calking to seal the windows.
  • Make sure to apply calking around the bathtub to avoid leaks.
  • Calking is essential in waterproofing structures.

Translations

Translations of the word "calking" in other languages:

🇵🇹 calafetação

🇮🇳 सीलन

🇩🇪 Abdichten

🇮🇩 pemasangan sealant

🇺🇦 заповнення швів

🇵🇱 uszczelnianie

🇯🇵 コーキング

🇫🇷 calfeutrage

🇪🇸 sellado

🇹🇷 sızdırmazlık

🇰🇷 코킹

🇸🇦 إغلاق

🇨🇿 těsnění

🇸🇰 tesnenie

🇨🇳 密封

🇸🇮 tesnjenje

🇮🇸 þétting

🇰🇿 жабулау

🇬🇪 მჭიდროება

🇦🇿 sıxma

🇲🇽 sellado

Etymology

The word 'calking' has its roots in the Old Norse word 'kálkr', which referred to a type of filling material used for sealing. Historically, it was widely employed in shipbuilding to prevent water from entering the hulls of boats and ships. Calking has been a crucial part of maritime construction since at least the Viking Age. Over time, the practice spread to building and architectural applications, adapting with advancements in materials and techniques. In the 19th century, the introduction of synthetic materials revolutionized calking, making it more durable and effective. Today, calking is integral to modern construction and maintenance, used in both residential and commercial projects.