Why caulking windows

Apply a caulk softener two hours prior to pulling old caulk off with the use of a putty knife. Remove as much as possible so the new caulk will adhere well. Then, apply the caulk. Polyurethane generally works well, but there are many kinds to choose from. Follow these steps for a good seal:. Contact us to learn more about keeping your home energy efficient and free of air leaks.

Follow these steps for a good seal: Cut the tip of the caulking tube at a 45 degree angle. A few drops of water here and there can work their way in between walls, where they can create serious problems that can be quite expensive to fix.

Sealing windows is also a good way to prevent excessive moisture from collecting and causing mildew. Any moisture that builds up around windows can encourage bacteria to grow. In hot kitchens or bathrooms, steam can accelerate this growth. Mildew and mold can cause significant health problems , particularly to those who have allergies, asthma or other respiratory conditions.

In addition to compromising health, mildew can ruin paint, furniture and even the windows themselves. Caulking interior windows can stop insects from making their way inside a home. Small bugs often take advantage of tiny gaps around windows to enter a home in search of food and more comfortable temperatures.

Low humidity is important during application to prevent cracks from swelling with moisture. Warm temperatures are also necessary so the caulk will set properly and adhere to the surfaces. Selecting Caulking. Dry cloth if immediate; mineral spirits or naphtha. Little or none. Good to excellent. High Flexible: cured silicone allows stretch of joints up to three times normal width or compression to one-half the width. Silicone: Construction Seals most dissimilar building materials such as wood and stone, metal flashing, and brick.

High Permits joints to stretch or compress. Polyurethane, expandable spray foam Expands when curing; good for larger cracks indoors or outdoors. Solvent such as lacquer thinner, if immediate. None; expands quite a bit. Moderate to high. Water-based foam sealant Around window and door frames in new construction; smaller cracks. High Takes 24 hours to cure. Cures to soft consistency. Water-based foam production does not produce greenhouse gases.

Will not over-expand to bend windows new construction. Must be exposed to air to dry. Not useful for larger gaps, as curing becomes difficult. Butyl rubber Seals most dissimilar materials glass, metal, plastic, wood, and concrete. Mineral spirits or naphtha. Latex Seals joints around tub and shower. From good to excellent. By sealing the gaps around your windows, you can avoid the need for toxic sprays and insecticides to get rid of these insects.

When your windows are not properly caulked, you can experience structural damage, higher energy bills and mold infestation, among other problems. Here is a look at some of the other issues that may occur.

When caulk around the outside of your window pulls away, it can allow water to seep into the drywall or plaster. In the case of storms, wind can drive rain into gaps of all sizes and severely compromise the paint. Caulk can be thought of as a cushion between a window and its frame. When this cushion is not fully intact, the glass in your window can become loose and rattle.

If you see the flame bend, this indicates air is pushing through your windows from outdoors.