How To Seal Windows With Vinyl Siding

Caulk is used to seal spaces between two objects.

How to seal windows with vinyl siding.

Caulking windows to give them a finished look inside and out and seal out leaks and drafts is a fairly common diy task. Remove the pieces of vinyl siding from around the window area. Caulking can be placed behind the j channel during installation sealing the seam between the j channel and the house wrap also sealing the seam between the j channel and the window itself. But if done incorrectly it can lend a sloppy amateurish look.

In this case the objects are the perimeter of the new exterior wall and the perimeter of the old open space. Check to be sure weep holes are open along bottom of window openings. Smooth out the caulk. One of the somewhat more complex steps in the vinyl siding process however is installing it properly around windows.

Vinyl siding by itself does not create a waterproof seal and care must be. Many vinyl siding installers do not realize the importance of the house wrap and its job as the sole water barrier because many people incorrectly. Vinyl siding installs in pieces so gaps and overlaps are normal. This prevents any air leakage.

Sealing these spots with caulking is not possible because the siding must expand and contract freely to prevent warping. Inspect the area above the leak including both indoors and out. To prevent leaks caulk the window where it meets the exterior siding.