Weatherproofing Outside Light

MrBill_DIY

Today I replaced an old porch light, and noticed that there was no weatherproofing to keep water out -- nothing to keep water from seeping down the outside wall and perhaps into the electrical box. The new porch light was of the same type, and it didn't come with any weatherproofing either. So the outside plate of the new fixture is just flat against the outside brick surface, like the old one was.

Should this be caulked, or is there some other method for weatherproofing an outside light fixture?

brric

Clear silicone.

secutanudu

I think normal practice is to leave the bottom un-caulked (just do the sides and top), so if water does make it's way in, it can get out.

__________________
Andrew

brric

Good point.

frenchelectrican

A clear silcone will work but make sure you do not block the bottom of the luminaire or other items so the water can able drain out.

Merci.
Marc