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What is Window Caulk?
Window caulk is a type of caulking that is used to insulate windows. As with most other types of caulking, window caulk's main purpose is to prevent any air from seeping into, or out of, a building. Window caulk can be made from many different materials including silicone, poly-sulfides, acrylic-latex, butyl rubber, neoprene, and many others.
The most important thing to look for when purchasing window caulk is a caulking material's lifespan. While some types of caulking will only last for three years, other types may last more than ten years. In addition, be sure that the caulk you choose will adhered to the type of window frame that you have. Some substances only adhere to wood surfaces, while others may only stick to metal. Since different metals, and other window materials, expand and contract at varying rates, selecting a caulk that can withstand these temperature changes is crucial. Otherwise, caulk will simply peel off of a window frame resulting in reapplication.
Purchasing caulk that comes with some type of application tool is also important. Caulking guns make applying caulk to any surface simple and efficient, but using a trowel to apply caulk may result in a insufficient and messy job. Also, be sure to purchase the amount of window caulk that you actually need -- leftover caulk that is not used right away may dry quickly.
When applying any kind of caulk, it's important to stick to package directions. Caulk should not be applied when the outside temperature is below 40°F (4ºC). While applying caulk, try and create a steady stream of caulking material. This way, the caulk will not be applied in chunks, which can create a messy look. Before any caulking can be applied, be sure to remove any older caulk that may be stuck to a window. Attempting to apply new caulk over older caulk is often difficult and ineffective. On occasion, caulk may shrink. If this occurs, you will have to remove any existing caulk, and apply new material.
Most hardware stores and home improvement stores sell window caulk. You may also be able to purchase large quantities of caulk by shopping online or in specialty stores. Industrial strength caulk can also be purchase through specialty retailers. By keeping the above information in mind, you should be able to choose a caulk that will keep cold air out, warm air inside, and last a long time.
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![Window caulk in a caulking gun.]()
Window caulk in a caulking gun. -
![Window caulk is used to insulate windows.]()
By: dbrusWindow caulk is used to insulate windows.
Discussion Comments
Drentel - Thanks for the tip. We will definitely consider the rope caulk next time. Has anyone else tried rope caulk in place of the other types of caulk for windows?
Sporkasia - I have never used a trowel to apply window caulking. However, I imagine the process could get messy. The caulking guns work well, but you still need a bit of touch to get the caulk put on evenly and still get all the little cracks filled in.
There is another option I discovered when I was helping a friend winterize his home for the season. It's called rope caulk and it is packaged in a box. The caulk comes in a circle, wrapped around itself. You can peel the caulk and tear strips in the lengths you need.
Another good feature about this caulk is it is easily divided into thinner strips when needed. The strips are easy to apply. You just lay them along the openings and then fit/mash them into place. They can also be easily removed when you no longer need them.
After moving into a new house, which was actually a very old house, we discovered that the structure was not well insulated. One of the main places we were losing heat was around our windows. Just looking at the windows, we didn't notice the small openings around them, but we definitely felt the air on cold days and nights.
We went to the hardware store and bought caulk, which we applied with a trowel. Have you ever tried to caulk a window with a trowel? This was a bad idea. We made a mess, but we did fill the gaps around the windows, so the job was a success--just not pretty. Next time we'll use a caulking gun.
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