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Choose the Right Caulk
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| Seal with silicone, and save energy. Did you know that not all caulk provides energy savings over time? 100 percent silicone
does provide sustained benefits. It is permanently
flexible, shrink-proof, crack-proof and waterproof.
In fact, 100 percent silicone remains unaffected
by all weather and temperature conditions, so it
helps prevent gaps and cracks, through which energy
dollars can pass, from reforming.
Need to
paint? No problem. |
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Clean the Surface
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| Remove old caulk, dirt, and loose particles
with a caulk-removing tool or wire brush. Apply
masking tape to either side of the joint to create
a straight edge. Remove immediately after caulk
application. |
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Prep the Tube and Seal
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| Cut nozzle to desired bead size. Pierce the
inner seal with a stiff wire or other similar object.
Insert cartridge into caulking gun. Hold the caulking
gun at a 45-degree angle and seal around unsightly
cracks or spaces inside and outside the home. |
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Smooth the Caulk Seal
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| Use your finger or a wet caulk-smoothing tool
within two to five minutes of application. |
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Store the Tube and Clean Up
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Squeeze the caulk until it’s barely coming out
of the tube. Replace the cap, or use a nail in the
tube opening. Wipe hands with a dry cloth before
washing with soap and water. Use mineral spirits
to clean up silicone.
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Should I hire a professional or can
I find and seal leaks on my own?
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Your home should be
tested twice a year (once in the spring
and again in the fall) to see if you
are protected from energy loss,
pollution, pests, and moisture. You can
perform an inspection yourself by using
one of three simple tests. Click here to
learn how to perform the tests.
Pending tax rebates programs such as the
proposed Home Star and other promotions
that offset the cost of hiring a
professional for a home energy audit
will make a professional energy audit a
more accessible and increasingly popular
option for homeowners. Trained
professionals with special equipment
evaluate energy loss throughout your
home. After considering the results, the
professional will provide you with a
list of recommended upgrades and repairs
to improve your home’s overall energy
efficiency. This total home approach is
sometimes more efficient and effective
than a DIY energy audit to set you on a
path of comprehensive energy savings.
Below are resources to learn more about
DIY and professional energy audits
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