HomeReplacementWindows.net

Shoddy workmanship in window caulking - house not staying cool?

There were replacement windows installed in the old portion of the house, and there is also new construction with the same problem. There are voids(1/8 inch plus) in the corners and some of the sides between the wall and the window inside of the house. The part where the wall does meet the window chips out easily, and the void looks pretty deep in there. Do I need to crack out whatever dried out stuff it is and recaulk? What is the likelyhood that they pulled the same stunt when they re-stuccoed the house on the outside? I'm willing to do all the work, what do I need to do to seal my house and make it cost-effective to heat and cool? Thanks!

Public Comments

1. it is quite common in replacement window for this to be the case. You can help your situation by going to your local hardware store and puchasing a foam crack filler, they come in spools and different diameters. Buy one that will compress and seal the areas of concern which may include buying several sizes and compress and stuff these in between forming a seal., you can then seal that in with caulking. In addition you could use a spray foam BUT be sure to buy one that is made for windows and doors and is minimal expansion. Many foams expand and can cause your window frame to distort and prevent proper operation of the window.


2. A cool trick on caulking is to cut the tip of the tube at an angle(your call) and put your finger at the tip of the tube and as you are squeezing out the caulk let it hit your finger and guide it into the gap one straight motion(swipe). You will get a smooth professional finish every time. Mike Holmes doesn't even know this one.(sry Mike) Keep a damp rag with you to wipe your finger off here and there, You could dress up the window with some trim and then caulk it in,