Overview:
I'm trying to determine the best outdoor caulk(s) to use for re-sealing the perimeter of my vinyl windows and trim. It was done improperly the first time (see details below), this time I want to DO IT RIGHT!
Background:
I'm looking to re-caulk the windows and trim around the outside of my home. The home is about 6 years old and in the Los Angeles, CA area. Much of the wood trim has shrunk/warped since it was originally installed. This has caused significant gaps between the trim and window in some areas. The windows are vinyl with rough-cut wood trim (might be cedar - not sure). Outside the trim, the home is stucco.
The original builder apparently used a combination of latex and silicone caulk to seal the windows. Some windows are completely sealed with latex, others silicone, and some a combination. It appears to have been done with whatever they had on hand at the moment. … and most windows were not sealed AT ALL along the top edge!? (out of sight, out of mind I guess)
I’ve removed the majority of the existing caulk – the latex was cracking and was pretty easily removed – it simply pulled out in strips. The silicone has been more difficult – it came out like sticky balls of snot. :laughing:
I have attached a few photos for reference – In some cases the gaps between the wood and window are about 1/4 inch (or larger). The gap extends back about 1 inch from the outside edge.
Now, on to my questions to determine how to prep and caulk THE RIGHT WAY so I don’t have to do this again in another 6 years!:
Fritz
I'm trying to determine the best outdoor caulk(s) to use for re-sealing the perimeter of my vinyl windows and trim. It was done improperly the first time (see details below), this time I want to DO IT RIGHT!
Background:
I'm looking to re-caulk the windows and trim around the outside of my home. The home is about 6 years old and in the Los Angeles, CA area. Much of the wood trim has shrunk/warped since it was originally installed. This has caused significant gaps between the trim and window in some areas. The windows are vinyl with rough-cut wood trim (might be cedar - not sure). Outside the trim, the home is stucco.
The original builder apparently used a combination of latex and silicone caulk to seal the windows. Some windows are completely sealed with latex, others silicone, and some a combination. It appears to have been done with whatever they had on hand at the moment. … and most windows were not sealed AT ALL along the top edge!? (out of sight, out of mind I guess)
I’ve removed the majority of the existing caulk – the latex was cracking and was pretty easily removed – it simply pulled out in strips. The silicone has been more difficult – it came out like sticky balls of snot. :laughing:
I have attached a few photos for reference – In some cases the gaps between the wood and window are about 1/4 inch (or larger). The gap extends back about 1 inch from the outside edge.
Now, on to my questions to determine how to prep and caulk THE RIGHT WAY so I don’t have to do this again in another 6 years!:
- What type of caulk would you recommend? I would prefer something that is easy to use, paintable and water-clean up. I’m considering GE Max 5000 Windows & Door (siliconized acrylic) http://www.geadvancedmaterials.com/...cts/ProductDetail/gemax5000windowanddoor.html I’m also considering DAP SideWinder – it requires solvent for clean-up, but may be longer-lasting and adhere better to the vinyl http://www.dap.com/docs/tech/00010021.pdf
- What would you recommend for filling the gaps before caulking? Foam backer rod, or perhaps one of the newer minimally expanding interior/exterior latex foam products, such as DAPtex latex insulating foam sealant http://www.dap.com/docs/tech/00077346.pdf ?
- Should I Prime the wood before re-caulking?
- Do I need to prep the Vinyl in any special way? Should I sand the edges slightly to provide better adhesion?
- The wood that was sealed with silicone has apparently absorbed some of the silicone – the wood appears wet, and slick – do I need to prep these areas differently to be sure the new caulk/paint will adhere? 6. Any special considerations for sealing the seams between the wood and the stucco areas?
Fritz