Keeping a house well painted is an essential part of any home maintenance program. Windows and doors present a particular challenge with their architectural details. Keeping windows well caulked not only preserves their beauty and usefulness, but it also contributes to energy savings and makes painting a breeze. Knowing the proper way to caulk window trim before painting can save time, materials and labor. Keep a few essentials in mind.
Instructions
Prepping the Window
1. Scrape any loose or peeling paint and old caulk from the window frame using a putty knife or paint scraper. Pay special attention to the outside edge between the siding or brick and the window trim, also known as casing.
2. Wash the window and frame using a solution of dish detergent or vinegar and warm water to provide a good bond for the caulking. Wait until the window dries before proceeding for best results.Check the window for proper function, and make any repairs or adjustments before applying new caulking.
3. Choose the right caulk for the job. If the window will be painted, use painter's caulk. For stained wood, vinyl, steel or aluminum, choose an outdoor-rated silicone caulk in the color closest to your window color for a good blend.
4. Use a medium-weight caulking gun. This saves money and provides you with a quality tool you can use again and again. The lightweight, cheapest models are generally more trouble than they are worth, especially for the inexperienced DIYer.
Caulking the Window Trim
5. Cut the caulking tube with a built-in cutter--located in front of the trigger--at an angle to provide an opening the size of the average gap. Open the tube by poking a built-in probe, typically located underneath the barrel, through the nozzle and into the tube. Squeeze the trigger until caulking rises in the nozzle.
6. Use foam caulking rope to fill any large gaps between the house wall and the window trim. These areas may require additional layers of caulking to cover completely. Cut the rope to length, and press snugly into the gap.
7. Apply caulk with a steady, even motion. Place the nozzle into the gap, and drag the tip of the gun, squeezing steadily on the trigger. Leave enough caulk to fill the gap and bead up a little. Work the caulk into a smooth even joint with a wet finger. Use a damp rag to remove any excess caulk from the surface surrounding the gap.
8. Caulk any cracked or missing glaze in the corners of window panes using a siliconized latex glazing caulk. This comes in a variety of colors. Choose a color closest to your paint to avoid painting onto the glass. Scrape loose glaze, and remove any dust or debris. Apply a thin coat over the damaged glaze, smooth with your finger, and wipe the excess with a damp rag.
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