Window caulking is the process of sealing off cracks around a window with a waterproof sealant. Well-Done caulking protects your home from moisture intrusion, heat leakage and entry of insects and ants.
A professional painter knows the fact that painting and caulking go hand in hand. Be sure to start the painting work after filling all the cracks and gaps.
Mostly used at door frames and windows, caulking can be used to seal the other parts in the exterior of your house. The most common areas are
Most of the homeowners do caulking in the winter season to avoid the loss of heat energy generated from the heaters. Caulking is also ideal for fall temperature conditions. If you are working on saving energy in winter, start the process before winter commences.
Caulks are available in different varieties. The most preferred is the latex or silicone caulk. Latex is easy to remove, and silicon withstands extreme temperatures. If the homeowners tend to remove the caulk frequently, then latex is the best choice.
Apply new caulk after removing the existing caulk. Another option is just filling the gaps that are present and leaving the present caulk as it is. Always use a caulk gun to apply the caulk. Caulk is applied in the gaps by holding the gun at 45-degree angle. You should be sure to cover all the gaps and areas where air can seep through.
When it comes to selecting the caulk always go for the best one, you get the caulk quality for the amount of the money you invest. Right caulk is essential to keep your house safe for many months or years. Silicon caulk is one of the options, and when mixed with latex, will last over 20 years and are waterproof, flexible, shrink-proof. But the main drawback is that silicon caulk cannot be painted and releases strong odor after drying. Polyurethane caulk will last long, can be painted over and adheres well and is a standard option for exterior window caulking.
Caulk tends to harden as it ages, usually breaking away from its surface allowing moisture to accumulate beneath. Without removing old caulk, you have the risk of leaving damp on the surface of the window. Use a putty knife or sharp tool to remove it. To remove the extra caulk apply the caulk removing the gel, wait for two hours and remove the caulk easily.
You’ll need a good quality caulking gun to apply caulk accurately. When shopping or a caulk gun, look for a model that has a comfortable grip and a smooth plunger rod. Inexpensive caulk guns tend to apply caulk unevenly and make the job messy.
Don’t be tempted to add more caulk on small and thin gaps. More caulk in the gaps will look odd and also effects the painting job.
This critical step ensures your job looks neat and professional. Your hand is the best tool to use for smoothing. After applying a bead of caulk, run your finger along the bead to ensure it fills the gap. Dip your finger in soapy water to ensure that caulk does not stick to your skin. We can also use an ice cube to do the smoothing process.
Window Caulking is one of the simplistic and most candid ways to improve the energy efficiency of your home. To get the most efficient caulking for your home and windows contact our experts at Executive Touch Painters on 416-410-0164 or via online.
