Time to Break Out the Caulking?

Before the cold weather hits this season, it is time to check your windows to see if they need any caulking. Caulking is a quick fix that you can do in just an hour or two to fill in the smaller holes and gaps that you may find in and around your windows.In most cases you can do this home maintenance project on your own, but there are some situations that you may need to call in professional help.Why Should I Be Concerned About Holes and Gaps in my Windows?Holes and gaps in and around your windows let the cold air in during the winter months. It also lets the heated air inside your home escape to the outside. Both of these types of air exchanges are bad because it makes your heater have to work too hard to keep your home comfortable.And an overworked heater means a large monthly utility bill.What Caulking Should I Use?Talk to the people at your local hardware store as to the best caulking to use for your home and for the upcoming temperatures. Caulking is best applied before the cold weather gets here, but there is special caulking that is designed to be able to be applied in freezing temperatures.Is There Anything Special I Need to Do Before Applying the Caulking?Yes, there are steps that you need to take before you apply the caulking.First, remove any old caulking from the area. You never want to apply fresh caulking over old caulking or you may not get the seal you need.Second, wipe the area down with a clean cloth. Under no circumstances should you use a pressure washer or garden hose to clean this area. The whole point of this is to fill a hole, so don’t go spraying water in the hole and then sealing it. That is just asking for additional damage to be done to your home or windows.What if the Caulking Doesn’t Work on My Windows?First, if the caulking doesn’t stick or you are having issues applying it, check to make sure that you read the directions on the tube correctly. Second, if you still can’t get the caulking to work contact a professional to come complete the project for you.Third, if you find yourself caulking your older windows more than every year or two or the holes and the gaps you find are too big to be able to fill with caulking, then it may be time for you to call us about new replacement windows.