When it comes to efficiency and effectiveness of your new replacement windows, window caulking is the first step in protecting the structure of your wall from external elements, moisture and insects.
When applied properly, caulking creates a continuous seal between the edge of the new window and the wall and ensures nothing can get in.
But because it is made from malleable silicone, caulking can often expand or contract after it is applied, which may result in holes or bubbles in certain areas around your window.
Fortunately, caulking problems are some of the easiest to fix. So easy, in fact, you can do it yourself most of the time.
Though if you had windows installed recently, chances are the caulking work is covered by warranty. Just for how long depends on the different window companies. Some companies cover caulking for a year or two, and others for the whole length of their labour warranty.
Make sure to find out what warranty your company has on caulking. This problem should be covered by the company’s installers free of charge.
But remember, most caulking related services have to wait for at least two to three weeks after installation. Only once the existing caulking has settled and dried it can be cut away and replaced with new caulking.
If you are a homeowner with new windows, be sure to check the edges around your frames a couple of times within the first month, you may find excessive or missing silicone on one side or the other.
Here are some examples of what to look for in your caulking, regardless of whether you just had windows installed, or want to fix your older windows.
Quality window installers not only ensure that the caulking is applied generously and seals off the space between the frame and the wall. They also look out for the aesthetic appeal of the windows and make sure that the caulking is applied evenly, and as continuously as possible to give the windows a clean polished finish.
If you have noticed missing or leaky caulking in your new windows, don’t worry this is quite a common problem, especially in the days following the installation. Contact the service department of your window company and they should resolve the problem for you.
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