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Alternative-Heating-Info.com
Choosing the right caulk
Caulk is inexpensive, easy-to-use and it has a multitude of applications. It will effectively
seal openings up to ¼ inch wide. (Larger cracks require backing material before caulk is
applied).
Most caulk is sold in tubes and requires a caulking gun for application. One caulking gun
will last most people a lifetime! Don’t let the range of caulk choices overwhelm you! A
few simple guidelines will help you choose the correct one for your application. When
making your selection here are some things to consider:
Silicone vs. latex
There are two primary caulking materials, silicone and latex. Of the two, silicone is
generally a little more expensive, but is much more durable and longer lasting. Some
silicone caulks will last up to 20 years. It shrinks very little and will seal two dissimilar
materials such as aluminum and wood. It remains somewhat flexible, allowing joined
surfaces to expand or contract. Silicone caulk is generally not paintable.
Latex caulk is less expensive and less durable than silicone. It will not adhere to metal
surfaces and is not flexible when cured. It must be painted in most exterior applications.
Latex caulks bond well to drywall and plaster surfaces inside the home.
Caulk is inexpensive, easy-to-use and it has a multitude of applications. It will effectively
seal openings up to ¼ inch wide. (Larger cracks require backing material before caulk is
applied).
Most caulk is sold in tubes and requires a caulking gun for application. One caulking gun
will last most people a lifetime! Don’t let the range of caulk choices overwhelm you! A
few simple guidelines will help you choose the correct one for your application. When
making your selection here are some things to consider:
ALWAYS read the label.
Is the caulk for interior or exterior use?
What is the surface material you’ll be caulking?
Choose a color. Caulks come in white, brown and clear.
Do you plan to paint over the caulk?
How long do you want it to last?
Silicone vs. latex
There are two primary caulking materials, silicone and latex. Of the two, silicone is
generally a little more expensive, but is much more durable and longer lasting. Some
silicone caulks will last up to 20 years. It shrinks very little and will seal two dissimilar
materials such as aluminum and wood. It remains somewhat flexible, allowing joined
surfaces to expand or contract. Silicone caulk is generally not paintable.
Latex caulk is less expensive and less durable than silicone. It will not adhere to metal
surfaces and is not flexible when cured. It must be painted in most exterior applications.
Latex caulks bond well to drywall and plaster surfaces inside the home.
Caulking and Weather Stripping
Weatherizing Your Home
Finding Air Leaks
Caulking and Weather Stripping
Using Caulk
Weather Stripping
Weatherize the Outside
Weatherize the Inside
Finding Air Leaks
Caulking and Weather Stripping
Using Caulk
Weather Stripping
Weatherize the Outside
Weatherize the Inside
Caulking and weather stripping
will take care of the majority of
your weatherizing needs.
Caulk is used to permanently seal
air leaks between stationary
surfaces like the frame around
your front door and the side of
your house. (There are some
removable caulks that can be used
seasonally and then removed).
Weather stripping is used to
eliminate gaps between moving
surfaces such as your front door
and the door frame.
will take care of the majority of
your weatherizing needs.
Caulk is used to permanently seal
air leaks between stationary
surfaces like the frame around
your front door and the side of
your house. (There are some
removable caulks that can be used
seasonally and then removed).
Weather stripping is used to
eliminate gaps between moving
surfaces such as your front door
and the door frame.