How to apply caulking
Weatherizing reduces your home’s energy use. It not only blocks air leaks effectively, it prevents moisture from getting into insulation or the building envelope.
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Time: 1 hour -
Difficulty: 2/5 -
Investment: $low -
Yield: $$$high
Caulking: A worthwhile project!
Reasons to apply caulking
Did you know that heating accounts for over 50% of your annual electricity bill? To save more without sacrificing comfort this winter, try our caulking tips.
How to apply caulking
Most air leaks are around windows, so it’s important to check them. In this tutorial, you’ll learn how to caulk your windows.
What you need
- Caulking gun
- Caulking compound (such as silicone)
- Rag
- Bowl of soapy water
- Foam backer rod or foam rope (if necessary)
- Lit candle or a thin sheet of paper (if necessary)
- Other tools (if necessary)
Important concepts
- Be sure to choose a good quality caulking compound well suited to the task. Cheap compounds are often difficult to apply and lack durability.
- Follow the instructions on the cartridge and check what you need for cleanup (water or special solvent).
- While you are caulking your doors and windows, take the opportunity to add or replace weather stripping and gaskets as necessary, to eliminate air leaks as much as possible.
- Remember that a building needs some fresh air coming in. If you think your house may have problems in that area, consult a heating system specialist.
- lit candle or a thin sheet of paper (if necessary)
- Do your caulking in dry weather, preferably. Do not try to caulk in an area where the temperature is below 5°C (41°F). The compound will become stiff and difficult to work with.
- Purchase enough caulking. One standard-sized tube will make a bead 6 mm (1⁄4 in) wide and 7.6 m (25 ft) long.
Special instructions for particular leaks
Here are some practical tips on sealing the most common air leaks.
Did you know?
Up to 25% of your home’s heat may be escaping. All together, air leaks could amount to a hole the size of a basketball! Fortunately, caulking is a cheap solution.