How To Caulk the Interior of New Windows (like a Pro)

TwoPlusCute
by TwoPlusCute
Easy
How and where to caulk the interior of newly installed windows. But not just that!
You will also read about the different types of silicone caulk (pre-colored anyone?), which one to choose for your project and how to pick a good (and easy to use) caulking gun.
Also, many tips & tricks from how to cut the tubes open, up to making super smooth caulking seams. Say it with me: "Perfect Seams, Every Time"!
When we installed the properly the misplaced "drip cap edge" and water stopped coming through our NEW windows, it was time to seal them (with silicone caulk) from the inside, too.


First thing first, it's handy to know your caulking gun (if you are interested, you can read several tips on getting a good one and how exactly to use all it's nooks and crannies, over at the blog).


Here are some basic terms so you and I speak of the same thing:
No 7 is also known as the tube "barrel"
Secondly, choose your caulk wisely. Caulk has the tendency to yellow over time. In the case of caulking interiors, you really want to pick a paintable caulk. One you can paint over and create an invisible and perfect finish with.


Being resistant to mold & mildew is another important asset.


In our case, it felt extra important to use the right caulk, as that window is in our daughter's nursery.


Apply from inside to outside from top to bottom. In that order. While it is not a life-saving tip, it does make it easier to avoid leaning against already caulked areas and making a mess.
Top to bottom: No Caulk, Caulk, Smoothed
The exact order (this is all very precise business....just kidding) I go about is as follows:


First I caulk the inside, where the window frame touches the window, starting from the top.


Then I seal the seams of the frame and where the frame meets the trim


Finally, I caulk the perimeter of the trim, where it meets the wall.
For certain applications, it helps using painter's tape to outline (and keep it contained), while creating a perfectly straight line. Such uses include caulking the base of a bathtub (where it meets the floor), or where kitchen tile meets the countertop.


However, I find that using tape for window caulking is more trouble than help - other people may have a different opinion of course. When in doubt, always do what feels best to you!
Read more (much, much more) at the blog! :)


ps. a wet...finger is your second best friend (after the caulking gun) but there are nifty & super frugal tools that make it even easier to get perfect seams (yep, it's all in the blog).
TwoPlusCute
Want more details about this and other DIY projects? Check out my blog post!
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