How to Clean and Caulk New Windows

Once your new windows are installed properly, make sure they're adequately protected from the weather. Clean and caulk the exterior frames of your windows to prevent any air or water from leaking into the house. Use quality materials and caulk for a professional finish.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Lacquer thinner
• Rag
• 1 caulk tube for a medium size window
• Caulk gun

1. Use a lacquer thinner to wipe down the frame of your window. Wipe away scrapes, marks and any debris left over from the installation process.

2. Choose a polyurethane caulk that stays flexible and adheres tightly to a vinyl or wood surface.

3. Load the caulk into a caulking gun for easier application around the window and in the cracks of the frame.

4. Start on one side of the window, and work your way around the entire frame making sure to fill all cracks between the window frame and siding.

5. Squeeze the trigger of the caulk gun slowly to spread an even amount of caulk in a continuous line along the cracks.

6. Smooth the caulk with a finger. This can be done for appearance sake, but it's not required. Completely caulk and cover all cracks.

7. Stop caulking in corners, or at the end of a seam, by pusing the caulk nozzle into the crack and letting up on the trigger as you twist the gun and pull away.

Tips & Warnings

• Pick out a caulk that is guaranteed to last for a long time. While a less expensive caulk might be tempting, it can require replacement or repair in only a year or so.