How to Seal Window Frames from Moisture
A proper seal on a window frame is an important part of keeping your energy costs low and effectively insulating your home from heat, cold and moist weather conditions. Window frames often develop cracks and leaks over time and regular application of a sealant will help keep them from becoming ineffective barriers to the elements. Be sure to apply the correct type of caulking to seal window frames from moisture. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Incense stick
- Putty knife or stiff brush
- Screwdriver
- Caulking gun
- Caulk
- Clean, damp cloth
Instructions
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Find cracks and leaks in your home on a cool windy day by turning off all fans, furnaces and closing all windows and doors. Pass a lit incense stick around all edges of windows to discover any leaks. If the smoke is pushed either inside of the house or sucked out, this is an area of leakage.
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Remove any existing caulk and paint by scraping it out with a stiff wire brush, screwdriver or putty knife. Thoroughly clean the area of any dirt, debris or residue. Be sure it is completely dry before applying the caulk.
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Apply the new caulking when the outdoor temperatures are above 45 degrees Fahrenheit--on a dry day. Applying during high humidity conditions can cause the caulk to crack and swell with the moisture. Caulk will only set properly during warmer temperatures.
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Load the caulk gun and cut a 1/4 inch angled slit on top of the tube. Hold the caulking gun at a consistent angle when applying--a 45 degree angle works well when getting into deep cracks. Begin at the top and work down on vertical surfaces. Caulk should immediately sink into the crack as it comes out from the gun or tube.
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Apply the caulking to cracks and holes in a continuous stream, free from bubbles. Try not to stop and start when applying it to a crack
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Push any caulk that has oozed out of the crack back in with a putty knife. Be sure to caulk gaps that are in between the siding and openings. Clean any excess caulking off with a damp cloth before it dries. Reapply if caulk shrinks into holes. Allow to thoroughly dry for 24 hours.
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Tips & Warnings
If using a caulk gun, release the trigger before you pull the gun away from the crack to avoid over-application. If possible, purchase an automatic release caulk gun.
Be sure to purchase caulking that can be painted over.
Damage can occur when applying the wrong type of caulk to vinyl window frames. Be sure to used caulk that is recommended by your window manufacturer.
