How to waterproof a window frame

Liz
by Liz
Our window that faces the sun now gets water coming in the gaps. The sealer has deteriorated. How do I fix this and is it hard to do myself?
  7 answers
  • Hope Williams Hope Williams on Mar 16, 2015
    Is it wood?
  • Hope Williams Hope Williams on Mar 16, 2015
    If it is wood, this is a simple fix and you can do it yourself. If it's the frame of a metal type, it's just a different type caulking. Your local hardware store will help you pick the right type of caulking. And if you have several, go ahead and purchase the window tool too! Be sure to scrape away all the old sealer/caulk. Be sure to clean it with a bleach based cleaner too. Allow it to dry no less than 24 hours. If it does not dry thourghly, it will not last very long at all. You can google the process and watch videos on YouTube or DIY network. It's time consuming but easy to do. P.S. If it's wood, there will be these little triangle shaped metal pieces on each side of every pane. LEAVE THEM THERE! They are holding the glass in place.
  • Joy Derouen Joy Derouen on Mar 16, 2015
    Scrape off the old caulking and recaulk but please do this on a sunny day. Good Luck
  • Rose Rose on Mar 16, 2015
    Styrofoam
  • Rebecca Stephens-Laker Rebecca Stephens-Laker on Mar 16, 2015
    I have the same experience, caulking does NOT work, they cracked and came loose as water seeps inside.
  • Joy Derouen Joy Derouen on Mar 19, 2015
    Instead of using regular caulk you can use the paintable silicone caulking it is more durable and lasts longer.......I use to install windows for a company here in Thibodaux, La. We used the paintable silicone on the inside and regular silicone on the outside unless the customer was planning on painting the outside of the house. Hope this helps
  • The spray can of "Flex Seal" as seen on TV....amazing stuff! Dries clear. The sales person at the hardware store told me about it. Said he ordered it by the case from the manufacturer at his home. It is amazing, and I am quite the doubting Thomas!