What Type of Caulking Should You Use for Replacement Windows and Doors?

When it comes to replacing windows and doors, it's important to choose the right type of caulking. Silicone or silicone latex putty is an excellent choice for covering windows, exterior doors, moldings and cladding. In the past, the only downside was that silicone couldn't be painted over, but now there are silicone sealants and silicone blends that can be painted, making it easier to use in a wider range of projects. Quality windows and side doors have been around since 1976, so how do you choose from all the great products out there? Look for one with proven quality and value.

OSI's QUAD Max sealant is a fan favorite. This putty is applied evenly in both hot and cold temperatures. Its 100% silicone formula makes it flexible and shrink-proof. It also dries quickly, so you can get down to business right away. And since it's weather-resistant, you know it will last for many years.

At Feldco, we take care of windows with the best sealant on the market. We use Osi Quad Max sealant on all our replacement windows, so many homeowners who choose Feldco to replace their windows will benefit from cost savings and energy efficiency. Thanks to our well-trained installers, Feldco can replace windows and apply Osi Quad Max sealant to extend the life of replacement windows. Silicone putty is a popular choice for outdoor work, not only because it resists moisture but also because it is resistant to mildew. It seals windows from outdoor drafts, moisture and insects while remaining flexible in changing outdoor temperatures.

On the one hand, silicone stretches and lengthens naturally due to its inherent elasticity. So, as the temperature rises and cools outside, you won't have to worry about the putty chipping or breaking. When you buy silicone putty, check the label to make sure it adheres to the material of the window seam. For example, acid-cured silicone sealant works best on metal coatings while neutral curing may be better on wood coatings or frames. In general, silicone putties are best for complicated materials such as metal, marble and glass, especially against outdoor elements.

Keep in mind that you cannot paint on silicone putty; the paint will simply form droplets and will not stick to the surface. It will also darken during the curing process, so it's usually best to use it in a place that matches the house. This Loctite window, door and siding sealant has a high performance but is perfect for maintaining a beautiful exterior. If the old application has already hardened or is peeling and cracking, applying a new putty without removing the old layer will give a thick and messy result. Since all window designs and house coverings are slightly different, there is no single option for sealing the outside of windows.

Try SMP glue for a powerful, elastic bond on windows that dries transparently and resists weather, dirt, UV radiation and dust. Caulking outdoor window frames and frames requires a product that can withstand harsh weather conditions. The best sealant for exterior doors and windows is one that is made of silicone, polyurethane or latex. Caulking guns can be found in hardware stores and are used to load the putty cartridge and apply putty. To easily apply it to windows and doors, look for putty in a compression tube with a fine tip so you can squeeze out just the right amount you need. It is durable, flexible and resistant to UV radiation and ozone, making it ideal for caulking windows and other demanding outdoor applications.

That's why this GE Silicone 2+ Window & Door Sealant is a good choice for sealing replacement windows. When the time comes to replace the putty around the window frames, choosing the right variety of putty is a crucial step. For exterior carpentry such as windows and doors they should be combined with their design and be invisible to the naked eye as far as possible. Caulking windows properly can protect your home from moisture, air leaks and extremely high or cold temperatures. You're sure to find tougher indoor putties on this list but since latex is so easy to clean up and handle it's an ideal choice for home DIYers who are learning how to seal windows and fix small areas. Caulking windows to give them a finished look (inside and out) as well as sealing leaks and drafts is a fairly common DIY task.

Talk to a product specialist today or get a free quote online if you're looking for a strong and stable sealant for your outside windows.