Caulk Around Windows Vinyl Siding

And i m curious do i caulk between the j channel and the window frame on the outside.

Caulk around windows vinyl siding.

Whether you are repainting replacing a window or replacing the siding on your house the caulking around the window trim is a very important element. Caulking siding trim windows doors etc. I just had my 120 year old house sided with new vinyl siding. Paintable silicone caulk can be used around the outside of window units to properly seal the window and the siding edge or around the entire door unit.

Butyl rubber is sometimes recommended for exterior siding since it s a specialty outdoor caulk that can withstand changes in temperature and repeated exposure to the elements but you can choose any exterior caulk that will bond to your siding just make sure to read the labels and spot check on an unseen portion of your siding to make sure. How to caulk the window trim on lap siding. A common use for outdoor caulking is sealing around windows doors and aluminum siding. It s also recommended to use a cloth or rag ready to wipe up and smooth excess caulking before it sets on the siding.

Use around sinks tubs and showers. Minneapolis house painters recommends paying attention to corners and crevices as well as trim boards around windows and doors. Some research of my own reveals quite a bit of debate over this a few saying that the caulking will wear out fast because of the expansion contraction of the siding. I have seen some areas where for some reason no j channel trim was used around the windows and doors and caulk was used instead and the water damage was major.

But if done incorrectly it can lend a sloppy amateurish look. Use around the perimeter of windows to help seal the window to the header sill jack stud and jamb. Correct methods and techniques. Your vinyl siding will expand and contract with the changing seasons and even just the fluctuation in the day s sun exposure and temp.

The two most durable types of caulk to use outside are acrylic caulk and polyurethane caulk. It is important that you remove as much of the old caulk as you can without causing damage to the vinyl siding. I got relatively new vinyl windows. To help prevent leaks i was advised by a contractor that i need to caulk where my vinyl siding meets the edges of my windows.

No you don t have to. Homeowners use caulking for a variety or projects all around their homes. Caulking windows to give them a finished look inside and out and seal out leaks and drafts is a fairly common diy task.