Handy Helpful Blog

Drafts around windows can significantly affect your home’s comfort and energy efficiency. Proper caulking is an essential step in sealing out the cold, reducing energy bills, and keeping your interiors cozy. Here are our top tips to ensure a professional job every time.

1. Choose the Right Caulk

Selecting the appropriate caulk is crucial. For windows, use a high-quality, paintable exterior caulk that is weather-resistant. Silicone or polyurethane caulks are excellent choices as they offer durability and flexibility.

2. Clean the Surface

Before applying new caulk, clean the surface thoroughly. Remove any old, cracked caulk using a putty knife or caulk remover. Clean the area with soap and water, and let it dry completely. This ensures that the new caulk adheres properly.

3. Tape the Edges

For a clean, professional finish, apply painter’s tape along the edges of the area you’ll be caulking. This helps create straight lines and prevents the caulk from spreading onto unwanted areas.

4. Cut the Caulk Tube Properly

Cut the tip of the caulk tube at a 45-degree angle to match the size of the gap you’re filling. A smaller cut is often better as it gives you more control and reduces waste. Load the tube into a caulk gun.

5. Apply Steady Pressure

Apply the caulk in a smooth, continuous motion, maintaining steady pressure on the caulk gun. Aim to fill the gap completely, avoiding gaps and bubbles. If you’re new to caulking, it can help to practice on a scrap piece of material first.

6. Smooth the Caulk

After applying the caulk, smooth it out with a caulking tool or your finger dipped in water. This ensures the caulk adheres well and creates a neat, professional finish. Remove the painter’s tape before the caulk dries.

7. Let It Cure

Allow the caulk to cure fully according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually 24 hours. Avoid touching or painting over the caulk until it’s completely dry to prevent smudging and ensure maximum adhesion.

8. Inspect Regularly

Inspect your windows regularly for signs of wear and tear. Seasonal changes can cause caulk to crack or pull away from the surfaces. Recaulking as needed keeps your home well-insulated and energy-efficient.

9. Consider Professional Help

While caulking can be a DIY task, hiring professionals ensures a flawless finish. At Edward’s Enterprises, our skilled team handles all your caulking needs with precision and care, ensuring your home stays draft-free and comfortable year-round.

Keeping your windows properly caulked is an easy yet effective way to enhance your home’s insulation and comfort. Whether you choose to tackle this project yourself or prefer to leave it to the experts, these tips will help you achieve the best results. For more home improvement advice or professional services, reach out to Edward’s Enterprises today

Ready to make your house warm and energy efficient for this upcoming winter? Contact us today to get started!