How to Caulk Around Windows on a Brick Home

eHow may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. Learn more about our affiliate and product review process here.

Things You'll Need

  • Clean household rags

  • Utility knife

  • Caulking gun

  • Caulk

  • Putty knife or plastic scraper

  • Caulk remover

Image Credit: Jupiterimages/Creatas/Getty Images

Caulking windows is an effective means of reducing heating and cooling costs. There are two types of caulk: silicone or latex. Silicone is best where cracks expand and contract with changing temperatures, but can be harder to apply and clean up. Latex is best where the seams do not change with varying temperatures. Caulking windows on a brick home yourself can seem like a daunting task, but it is actually quite simple given a little knowledge and the right tools. Everything you need is available at your local hardware store.

Advertisement

Step 1

Choose a caulking color that nearly matches the trim of your windows. A clear caulk blends with all house and trim colors.

Video of the Day

Step 2

Remove the old caulking from the seam where the window and wall meet. Use a plastic scraper to loosen the caulk.

Advertisement

Step 3

Install the caulk tube into the caulking gun by releasing the handle and inserting the tube of caulk. Push the handle all the way up against the tube.

Step 4

Cut the tube opening so that the bead of caulk is no bigger than a 1/8 to 1/4 inch in size.

Advertisement

Step 5

Start caulking at the top of the window and pull the gun down at a even speed, applying even pressure as you go.

Step 6

Use your finger or a spoon dipped in soapy water to smooth the caulking; this forms a uniform surface and tight seal.

Advertisement

Video of the Day

references

Report an Issue

screenshot of the current page

Screenshot loading...