Using Caulk to Conserve Energy | |
Trypolymer, Co-polymer and Compounded Latex Tripolymer or co-polymer caulks ($4-6) are the most versatile types of caulk because they have excellent adhesion properties and more elasticity than other caulks. They are flammable and should be applied with caution and proper ventilation. Silicone Silicone caulks are the best choice to seal damp high moisture areas but they are expensive ($4-6). They are the best choice for caulking around bathtubs, showers and sinks. Some silicone caulk is not paintable. Compounded Vinyl and Acrylic Latex The best all around caulk for inside and outside the house are the acrylic latex formula caulks ($2-$3 a tube). Oil Base and Plain Latex Caulks These bargain caulks ($1-2) have been around for years and are suited for indoor use only. Oil based caulks are inexpensive but they are not necessarily the best buy because they have a limited life and require mineral spirits for clean up. Plain latex caulks are easy to apply and clean up with water. They are suitable for interior uses such as caulking woodwork when painting but they are not a good choice for areas exposed to the weather. Butyl Rubber Caulks Traditionally used to caulk masonry to wood or metal joints this type of caulk is medium-priced ($2-4). It is good for caulking between glass and metal and sealing aluminum or galvanized gutters. It requires mineral spirits for clean. Foam Caulk This type of caulk can fill large gaps but it's sensitive to the ultraviolet rays so it must be painted if it is exposed to the elements. The foam caulks fill large cracks in tough-to-reach areas such as between the foundation of a house and siding, and around pipes that enter the house. Rope Caulk Rope caulk is an inexpensive temporary stopgap to fill cracks. It doesn't harden and is used to fill gaps in old windows during the winter. Where to Caulk Inside the House - Around the woodwork around windows and door frames, built-in furniture i.e. bookcases to smooth the junction where wood meets the wall.(caulk before painting) - Around exhaust fan outlets in the bathroom, kitchen, laundry room - Around lighting fixtures - Around window air conditioners - Around heating or cooling duct work, radiator pipes Where to Caulk Outside the House - Anywhere different materials meet on the exterior i.e. at foundation joints where masonry joins siding and around door and window jambs where they meet the siding - Any holes cut into the house i.e. water spigot, cable television and telephone wires - Around clothes dryer vent - Where utility lines run into house i.e. plumbing lines, electrical meters, air conditioner lines - On the roof to seal chimney flashing, vent pipes, skylights and antenna written by Gene and Katie Hamilton Copyright HouseNet, Inc. |