The cracking is likely caused by shrinking of the water based caulk, this moves the inflexible paint more than its able and it cracks. There is no legislation on how much a caulk can shrink but there is on sealants.
The very short answer is, “No, you cannot paint over silicone”.
In order to fix this problem, you may need to use a different type of caulk or even just apply a wider bead of caulk. Similarly, it's not uncommon that the gap isn't wide enough. In this case, you may need to use a thinner bead of caulk or even just apply more pressure while smoothing it out.
Most caulks state that they can be painted or sprayed over in 1-2 hours. However, if you aren't in a rush, we'd give the caulk 24 hours to dry. This allows it to dry completely and really fill in the crack. It will also allow you to refill any of the caulked areas that have sunk as they dry.
You also need to consider if you will be painting over the caulk, because caulk made with silicone does not provide a suitable adherable surface, which is why it needs to be primed before being painted.
Alex Plus All Purpose Acrylic Latex Caulk Plus Silicone is an excellent choice for these projects. It has siliconized additives to provide outstanding flexibility and strong adhesion to a wide variety of surfaces without cracking or chalking.
If it's cracked, peeling, or otherwise in bad shape, it's best to remove it entirely before applying new caulk. This will help ensure a tight, water-resistant seal.
Cut the Caulk Tube at the Right Angle
This angle creates a small opening that allows for more precise application and better control over the flow of caulk. Additionally, cut the tip to match the size of the gap or joint you are caulking, ensuring that the bead of caulk fills the entire space without excess.
Silicone also tends to leach plasticizers, the compounds that allow it to stay flexible. This occurs after the silicone cures and interferes with nearby paint's ability to adhere to other porous substances like siding. All in all, silicone makes painting a no-go.
Wipe denatured alcohol over the caulk.
Part of the reason paint won't stick well to silicone is because of how smooth the silicone is. Denatured alcohol will act as sandpaper to roughen up the surface of the silicone. Pour the alcohol onto a rag and wipe it over the surface of the silicone caulk.
It is a two component translucent clear platinum-cure silicone that is used to make a base for color pigmenting. Once the desired color is attained, Psycho Paint™ is thinned with a solvent.
For painting purposes, a quality latex caulk or siliconized latex caulk is the best choice. Sometimes referred to as "painter's caulk", these caulks are ideal for sealing interior windows, doors, and trim, and for filling small cracks and holes in drywall or baseboards.
There are a few reasons why this occurs, but the cracking is mainly due to the paint adhering to the caulk, and stretching as the caulk bead shrinks and cures. As paint technologies have evolved, manufacturers have introduced an array of products with enhanced attributes, catering to various application needs.
Load the tube into a caulk gun and apply even pressure on the trigger. Hold the gun at a 45-degree angle and start caulking in a steady motion. Use a caulk smoothing tool, such as a caulk finishing tool or a damp finger, to smooth the caulk bead before it starts to dry.
As the caulk dries, it shrinks and causes the paint film to stretch and crack. Applying caulk when the air, surface, or caulk temperature is below 40 degrees F, and the caulk is not designed for these conditions. Caulking joints in excess of 1/2" in width or depth.
Nothing sticks to silicone – not paint, not new caulking products. Not even silicone will stick to itself.
Should You Remove the Old Caulking Before Caulking and Painting? Yes, removing old, deteriorated caulk before applying new caulk and painting is recommended. Old caulk is unsightly and ineffective in protecting your home's interior from the elements.
The overarching reason why new caulk should never be installed over old caulk is because it simply does not produce long-lasting results. The reasons why depend on what has happened to the previous caulk line. In the case of caulk that has gotten moldy, recaulking over this material will not stop the mold problem.
Yes, we suggest that you use a caulking tool if you're looking for professionalism and an excellent finish in your work.
Using a Shellac Spray Primer
Buy a can that says it is a shellac spray primer for any surface. Shellac spray primer will stick to just about anything, so it is the best primer to use to cover up silicone caulk to get it ready to paint over.