Window caulking

1. Window Caulking Window caulking is a relatively inexpensive way to reduce your energy bill and prevent environmental damage to your home. Before caulking, you will need to determine your need for caulk. If you need it for weatherproofing purposes, you will need a compound for that purpose. You will want to find the larger leaks and attack them first. Pay close attention to the instructions on your caulk and make sure that you have plenty. While you certainly do not want pools of caulk, you cannot afford to skimp either. Caulking Window Interiors for Aesthetics On many windows, caulking between glass panes provides a classic appearance--and yet it is largely unnecessary. The caulk between the glass and the frame looks good and provides the illusion of warmth, but it does nothing to keep out wind, rain, or drafts. Because most windows fit tightly together, there is no need for caulk. If you want the aesthetic effect the service provides, you can simply add painter's caulk to your windows. Special Concerns for Replacement Windows Caulking for a replacement window is optional because they are typically well-sealed from within. To ensure this, they do need to be sealed around the frame where the window fits the wall opening. While windows do come in standard sizes, the original opening was cut for another window. Making sure that the caulk properly fills the empty space is vital for the health of your home. Where to Avoid Applying Caulk The caulking gun is fun, right? However, using it too much can cause a problem with moisture. Caulking not only prevents moisture from getting in, but it also prevents it from getting out. This is a difficult balance, so if you feel that you need guidance, call a professional. If moisture becomes an issue it can lead to mold and wood rot, so professional help is a good thing. You should always avoid caulking above the frame of the window. It does not matter the type, shape, or size of the window you have installed. The top of the window is known as the drip edge. The drip edge has one job: to carry snow and rain away from the windows and siding. If you close this joint off with caulk, moisture will become trapped behind the frame and, even worse, the edge of the siding. This is really bad for the exterior walls and window frames of your house.

2. When to Caulk The best time to caulk is before you need to caulk. You will have better results by not feeling rushed and it gives you time to work out any issues. Now, knowing the ideal conditions for caulking is a different matter. You will want it to be above 45 degrees and dry. This means you need to know your climate. If you live in a place where there is only one warm, dry month out of the year, plan ahead. A professional will have tools and tricks of the trade to cheat weather restrictions, but for a DIY job, stick with fair weather. Articles Source : http://odonnell-green.com/window-caulking/