How Often You Should Be Caulking Exterior Doors And Windows

There are so many unnecessary home maintenance projects that you don't actually have to do. However, caulking is certainly not one of them. In fact, it's one of the simplest ways to protect your home from water damage, drafts, and energy loss. Over time, the sealant around exterior doors and windows wears down, creating gaps that allow moisture and air to seep in. When you ignore deteriorating caulk, you're simply creating an opportunity for mold, rot, and higher energy bills.

Many homeowners think caulking is just cosmetic, but it's actually a functional part of your home and should be checked once a year and refilled as needed. When done properly and consistently like this, your heating and cooling systems don't have to work harder than necessary since caulking gets rid of drafts. Caulking also seals gaps that would otherwise allow rain and humidity to seep into walls, potentially causing structural damage. When the material of your doors and windows is protected from moisture, it lasts longer. Additionally, caulking blocks small entry points that insects and rodents could use to get into your home.

Some sources say that caulking lasts an average of five years. However, how often you actually need to replace the caulk depends on several factors. The first is the general climate in the area where you live. If you live in an area with extreme temperatures, high humidity, or frequent storms, the caulk may wear out faster than usual. There's also the factor of the type of caulk you choose to use. Naturally, higher-quality materials last longer and silicone caulks tend to last longer than latex caulks. 

Even with these guidelines, the most reliable way to tell it's time for a recaulk is by checking for any visible sign of wear. You should recaulk as soon as you notice cracks or splits in the material. It's good practice to occasionally take a look at the areas around your doors and windows. Do you see any areas where the caulk has pulled away from the surface? Are there sections that feel hard or crumbly instead of flexible? In some cases, you'll notice that there are gaps where you can see daylight coming through. And, if this coincides with a sudden increase in your energy bill, well, that's the sign you need to get caulking.

You want to work in mild temperatures, sometime between spring and fall. That's because caulk takes a while to dry. Of course, there are ways to speed up the process, but generally, you don't want heavy rain, extreme heat, or moisture from snow to disturb the bonding process.

Next, you have to choose the right caulk for the job. Silicone caulk is highly recommended for exterior projects because it lasts longer than the other options. However, if you're a beginner, you might want to opt for acrylic latex caulk with silicone because it's easier to work with. Nonetheless, before you choose a product, make sure it's labeled "exterior" and "waterproof." Also, go with "paintable" options if you want to match your home's color scheme.

Additionally, you'll need to learn how to use a caulking gun before you begin. If you're removing moldy caulk, some bleach or vinegar will come in handy. And, if the gap you're trying to fill is very large, you may need to insert some foam backer rods first for extra support. In fact, that's one of the ways you can make your exterior caulk last longer. Overall, taking the time to properly and regularly caulk your exterior doors and windows is a small price to pay to keep your energy bills low and keep your home safe from annoying rodents and the elements.