Caulking: Alternative to Save Energy

Air leaks around windows, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), waste a significant amount of energy. Normally, experts would suggest getting energy-efficient window replacement. It is the best way to get rid of leaky windows and guarantees energy bill shrinkage in the long term. On the other hand, caulking is also recommended as one of the simplest and least expensive ways to conserve energy and lower utility bills. While window caulking is a do-it-yourself project, the EPA recommends hiring professionals for ductwork or any other part of your home that you are not comfortable doing yourself.

What is Window Caulking?

Photo: Home Stratosphere

You can purchase silicone caulk or acrylic latex. It may be found in a tube or in a disposable cartridge that fits into a caulking gun, and this is the type of supply recommended for anything larger than a small space. Some manufacturers also produce high-pressure cartridges that do not require the use of a caulking gun. Spray cans or tubes may also be available in small jobs.

Before purchasing caulk, you should be aware of the following possibilities:

1. If you need the finished result to match a specific color look for acrylic latex that can be painted.
2. You cannot paint caulk but it is available in a variety of shades. Latex typically lasts longer than silicone.
3. If you buy classic cartridges, you can use about half of one cartridge for each window.

What Are the Advantages of Caulking Windows?

Heat escapes through air leaks in the winter and enters your property in the warmer months. In either case, you will be forcing your HVAC system to function harder than what it needs to, potentially reducing the amount of time with both calling for renovations or even acquiring new units. Your system will consume more energy as it works harder. As a result, you will overpay the energy company. Simultaneously, your system cannot keep you as satisfied as it could in a well-sealed and insulated home.

The EPA approximated that somehow this simple venture could save an average home 10 to 20% on energy costs and would cost most folks no or more than $30 and a longer period of time to complete. Because it is a relatively simple task, professionals usually charge reasonable fees for this service as well.

Even though the holes do not go together all way through, they can still lead to severe problems. Rainfall can get into the space for both walls, wiring as well as insulation. Aside from water leakage, you may also have electrical problems and mold. Window caulking can help you save a huge amount of money and keep you more comfortable for a quick, inexpensive job.

Where Caulk Should Not Be Used

When you learn about all of the advantages of window caulking, you may become enthused about these basic ways of conserving energy and saving money.

Caulking-styled windows or above windows can cause serious damage since they are already designed to hold away the excess moisture.

When Should You Caulk Windows?

Photo: Home Stratosphere

When installing new windows or if you notice any obvious gaps or holes around your existing windows, caulking should be a top priority. Check the condition of any existing caulking. Latex caulk seems to break over time. Any caulk may begin to separate from the frame and window. You should re-caulk at that point.

Furthermore, if you’ve never seemed to have caulked your windows, then you should make an investment in a small amount of money in a task that will help you save energy and money.

Consider the following tips for detecting difficult-to-find air leaks:

1. Examine the exterior of your home for areas where multiple opposite kinds of substances meet, such as around window frames.
2. Examine the panes for cracks or holes.
3. Examine the existing caulk for damage.
4. Tap or lightly shake your windows to see if they rattle.
5. Examine any areas where you sense a pocket of cold air when you’re close to the window.
6. Open a window and place a scrap of paper on the window ledge so that you can close it. If you can easily pull the paper out, you know you don’t have a tight seal on the lowest part.

Start Caulking

Caulking also must start taking no more than few-hour shifts and a little money. As a result, you may have decreased electricity bills and enjoy a draft-free home. Whether you do it on your own or hire a well-skilled individual, you should see immediate returns on your home improvement investment.