Caulking and Sealing Your Home: Where and When to Do It

Start with the obvious spots: the seams around window and door frames, where walls meet baseboards, and where different materials join, like brick to wood or concrete to siding. These are the most common entry points for water.

Also check exterior penetrations: pipes, cables, vents, and hose bibs that pass through your walls. Inside, look at bathtub edges, shower surrounds, and the base of toilets. Any gap or crack can let moisture in, leading to rot and mold.

• Window and door frames
• Baseboards and trim
• Pipes and cable entries
• Bathtub and shower edges
• Exterior vents and hose bibs

Before applying new caulk, remove all old, loose material. Use a putty knife or a special caulk removal tool. Clean the area with a solvent or mild detergent, then let it dry completely. Any moisture or dirt will prevent a good seal.

For the right adhesion, work in moderate temperatures, usually between 50 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. If the surface is too cold or too hot, the caulk may not cure properly. Read the label on your caulk for specific temperature and drying instructions.

Cut the nozzle of the caulk tube at a 45-degree angle, matching the bead size you need. Load the tube into a caulking gun and apply steady pressure as you move along the joint. Keep the tip at a consistent angle to form a smooth, continuous bead.

After applying, smooth the bead with a wet finger or a caulk finishing tool. Wipe away excess immediately. Do not paint over silicone caulk; if you need to paint, choose a paintable type. Allow the caulk to cure fully before exposing it to water.

• Cut nozzle at an angle
• Apply in one smooth pass
• Smooth with wet finger
• Wipe excess quickly
• Let cure fully before water