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The Handyguys discuss the the energy saving task of caulking windows.
Announcements
Before we discuss caulking windows we would like to remind our listeners and viewers of our recent video production on replacing a flush valve. In addition, we will be re-doing our “Fixing a Dishwasher” video in High Definition for additional clarity on the repair process. We hope to do a video showing some caulking techniques in the near future too.
Window Caulking
Handyguy Paul was asked by a friend “where do you caulk a window?”. That’s a pretty broad question. Is the window wood, vinyl or aluminum? Do You want to caulk it for aesthetics or because of drafts? We will assume drafts. Also, what is the siding material? new replacement windows in old frames? There are a lot of variables. We ramble on in the podcast discussing different places we caulk.
Vinyl windows and vinyl siding
Click to see a full sized image. Image © Andersen Corporation
Vinyl windows, if installed correctly shouldn’t need to be caulked in too many places. Caulking on the interior is mainly for aesthetics. You will caulk where the drywall meets the frame or the casing meets the frame. You can use some painters caulk on the inside where the window meets the casing or the drywall. If it was installed correctly there shouldn’t be a draft coming from this area.
Wood windows with wood siding
Click to see full sized image
These windows require a lot more maintenance. All gaps should be re-caulked. If caulking after painting or if you have natural wood, you use a clear caulk. If caulking before painting you should use paintable caulk rated for exterior use.
Replacement windows
Click to see a full sized image. Thanks to Champion Windows for providing this image.
Replacement windows are installed in existing wood frames. The windows come as a unit and should be caulked properly when installed. In situations with replacement windows, you have the area between the new window and the existing frame to keep caulk maintained as well as around any old trim.
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Over the past few months my electric bill has been going up, and this winter it hit a high point. A friend told me that it might be time to replace my windows. I’m hoping that there would be a cheaper option. Would re-caulking my windows be a good step to take before replacing my entire windows, or just a waste of time and money?
It would depend on the age of the windows, the age of the house, the type of glazing on the windows as well as how well your house is insulated. For example, if you have old single pane glass but have storm windows but no attic insulation then I would add insulation not do new windows. If you have gaps outside definitely seal them. If you house is well insulated but has old single pane windows with no storms then yes replacement windows may make your home more comfortable.