Do You Know How to Caulk Windows?
Regularly sealing the frame of your windows will prevent air leaks. Over time air bubbles in the window caulking pop and give way to AC and heat escaping. These leaks can cost you money in the long run. Caulking your windows means sealing your window to stop the air or moisture from entering your home. Here are some tips to help you properly caulk the windows of your home.
Choosing the right Sealant
You must find the type of sealant that works best with your window seal. Materials such as latex, polyurethane, acrylic, and silicone are great for windows. The best option depends on your type of window frame.
- For wooden window frames, latex works best. You may need to reinforce latex with polyurethane on the exterior.
- Polyurethane works best when applied to PVC, wood or fabric surfaces. For the wooden windows, reinforce any window seal with this versatile material.
- Acrylic sealants are optimal for aluminum, wood, concrete, and steel. Acrylic seals out UV rays and heat. Use this on smaller windows instead of large windows. Acrylic does not have a lot of resistance to movement.
- Silicone is optimal for wood, aluminum, ceramic and natural stone. It is recommended you apply it when your window is dry. Try to avoid using it on low-grade joints.
Properly Caulking your Windows
- Start by ensuring your conditions are optimal for caulking. A dry, warm environment is ideal for caulking windows. You don’t want the temperature to be too high because aluminum and steel will be hot to the touch. Try to wear a mask to avoid inhaling fumes.
- Use a knife or boxcutter to cut up an old caulk in the window.
- For extra residue, remove with a sponge and rubbing alcohol.
- Clean your window frame with a paper towel or lightly moistened sponge. Wipe away the moisture and allow it to dry.
- Line walls with painter’s tape to keep the caulk from caking on the wall.
- Cut the tip of your sealant tube at a 45-degree angle. Slowly slide the open side of the tube tip across the window’s seal.
- Press your gloved thumb along the caulk to ensure there are no bubbles. Slowly remove the tape from the frame at a 45-degree angle.
Once you have finished your caulking project, check the window’s seal to ensure that your caulk dried correctly. On a windy day, feel alongside the edges of the seal to see if you can feel a draft. For other DIY projects or home maintenance projects, check out our other blogs here on Atlantic Foundation’s website.