Guide to Caulking a Window

Drafty old windows often require resealing because the caulk used around the window is old and has crumbled out of the window. It is a good idea to replace the caulking compound as soon as possible. This stops heat loss in the winter and hot air coming into the home in the summer. Ultimately, saving hundreds of dollars on the home owners' energy bill.

Replacing Window Caulk

Now, let's discuss the caulking gun and how to properly use the home repair tool. Many home repairs about the house need an adhesive sealant. So, they need a product that seals a joint or opening securely. Some of these sealants are called caulking or joint sealants and they are sold in long tubes. In order to apply the sealant properly you need a special tool. These tools are called caulking guns. Now, in order to caulk the window properly make sure you have a caulking gun, caulking compound, gloves, and a few rags on hand.

Step One - Take the caulking compound in the tube and cut off the tubes plastic tip or nozzle. Remember that the size of the opening is what determines the size of the caulk bead dispensed from the tube. If you want a thin bead around the window cut a thin opening. If you want a wide bead around the window then cut a wider opening.

Step Two - Now take a long nail and insert into the tube plastic tip opening or nozzle and then remove the nail.

Step Three - Take the caulking gun and pull back the plunger and set the caulking tube into opening in the caulking gun.Make sure the caulking tube is in the dispenser properly.

Step Four - In order to dispense the caulking compound you must press the caulking gun trigger. The caulking compound will continue to flow out even after you release the trigger because of the buildup of internal pressure in the tube.

Step Five - Make sure that all old compound has been removed from the window. Use an old putty knife or butter knife to remove the caulk. Use a damp rag to clean around the area where the old caulk was removed. Let dry.

Step Six - Now take the caulking gun and seal the entire window frame with the caulking compound. Use latex caulk if you plan on painting over the compound. Apply a line of caulk around the windows with light pressure. Use a finger to smooth the bead of caulking compound firmly in place. And give it a clean and professional finish.

Source:A Step-By-Step Guide Do It Yourself Home Improvement, 2006, DK Publishing