"Maybe it's just me being frugal, but sometimes simpler is better... especially if you're careful and patient."
I completely agree with your point about simplicity. When I renovated my own kitchen last year, I initially went the tape route because that's what I'd always seen recommended. But honestly, it turned into a bit of a mess—adhesive residue, uneven lines, and way more frustration than I bargained for. Eventually, I switched to a silicone smoothing tool similar to yours, and the difference was night and day. Not only did it save me time, but the results were far cleaner and more professional-looking. Sometimes the simplest tools really do yield the best outcomes, especially when you're patient enough to work carefully. Glad to hear someone else had a similar experience!
Interesting points here, but I'm curious—did you find the silicone tool worked better because of the technique itself, or was it more about the quality of the silicone you used? I've noticed that even with simpler methods, the materials can make or break the outcome. Had a similar issue when installing my bathroom vanity... cheaper silicone ended up being a nightmare to smooth out, but once I switched brands, it was surprisingly easy. Wondering if others had the same experience.
"cheaper silicone ended up being a nightmare to smooth out, but once I switched brands, it was surprisingly easy."
Yeah, totally agree with this. When I redid my kitchen backsplash last summer, I thought I'd save a few bucks on silicone—big mistake. It was lumpy and dried weirdly fast, making the whole smoothing process frustrating. Switched to a slightly pricier brand halfway through and the difference was night and day. Technique matters for sure, but honestly, investing a bit more in quality silicone made everything so much easier...lesson learned the hard way!
Yeah, silicone quality can definitely make or break the job. Learned this myself when I did our bathroom vanity last year. Thought I was being smart by grabbing whatever was on sale—ended up with a messy, uneven line that looked like my kid did it. Switched to a better silicone after scraping off the mess, and it went on smooth as butter. Technique helps, sure, but good silicone just cooperates better.
Speaking of smoothing silicone, has anyone tried those silicone smoothing tools they sell at hardware stores? I've always just used a wet finger (old-school method), but I keep seeing these tools around. Wondering if they're worth it or just another gimmick that'll end up in my junk drawer...
I've tried those smoothing tools a couple times, and honestly, they're pretty decent. Less messy than the finger method for sure. But I still end up touching up corners by hand anyway. Curious if anyone else finds them awkward in tight spaces?
