If you feel especially motivated to lower your heating bill this winter, consider a caulking project to reduce the amount of cold air that gets through your door or window frames.àIf you do it right, your house will be noticeably less draughty and youâÂÂll like the change in your heating bill as well. First, inspect the frames around your windows and doors on the outside and inside, especially in communal living areas where youâÂÂll be spending a lot of time.àLook for draughty areas or areas where the previous caulk has peeled away. Make sure you choose a nice, warm day for caulking. Read the package on the caulk you buy as to what temperature it must be outside so it firms up well.àGenerally, itâÂÂs in the area of 50 degrees. Clean and dry all areas to be caulked with a damp sponge and dry towel. ItâÂÂs best to use the same type of caulk that already exists on the window frame; however, if you donâÂÂt know for sure, bring a sample to the hardware store to see if they can help you identify it.àMost caulks are polyurethane, polysulfide or silicone. Silicone usually canâÂÂt be painted, but you can buy certain types of silicone that is made paintable and provides you with a nice water-tight and air-tight seal.ÃÂ
YouâÂÂll be using your utility knife for two purposes. YouâÂÂll use it to trim away any decaying old caulk and to cut the end off the caulk after itâÂÂs in the caulking gun. Cut a hole in the nozzle of your tube of caulk about the size that you want your bead to be.àMost professionals cut the nozzle opening at a slant. Lay your bead in the vacant areas and use your tool or your finger to smooth out the bead so it blends in with the existing caulk.àIt may change color slightly as it dries. After youâÂÂve covered all areas and after itâÂÂs dried, go ahead and paint it the same color as the rest of the house or trim, depending on what has been done with the previous caulking.àOriginally contributed by localcontractorbids.com but it would appear this site is no longer online. |