With the continuing increase in the cost of fuel and summer just around the corner, most of us are looking at ways to save money. One of the easiest ways is proper maintenance on your home that could save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars in repair. Over the next several weeks, I will be discussing some easy “do it yourself” projects that you can complete around your home or find an Austin handyman to help you out.
One common issue that I encounter are many homes that lack proper weatherproofing, which results in higher electric and gas bills. When a person builds a home, we are concerned with the insulation and R-value. While this is important and is required by code, many older homes lose energy due to the lack of sealing air gaps.
Gaps around windows and doors should be weather proofed to block air flow from the exterior using caulk.
Many factors should be considered when choosing the type of caulk to purchase. Including durability, whether the caulk can be painted and of course the price. Take into consideration, the most expensive is not always better.
Latex, which has a 3-10 year lifespan, is my preference for indoor use. It goes on easily with low elasticity and sticks to porous surfaces only. The cleanup is easy, paintable and low in cost.
On the exterior of your home, selecting the Silicon-Latex Blend which has a 20+ year lifespan would be the best recommendation. This blend is composed of good elasticity, excellent weathering with medium shrinkage, and adheres to most surfaces.
Caulking needs to be applied to all gaps where air, moisture or insects can penetrate the structure of the home. It is a good idea to clean the exterior of the home prior to applying the caulk in order for it to better adhere to the surface.
Caulking is important in areas around the home such as, between the foundation and siding, roof overhang and siding, trim around the doors and windows, as well as penetrations into the home.
If your home is constructed of brick or stone, the weep holes must remain free of caulk. This is an area at the bottom of brick or stone homes that allow water to escape if it gets between the brick or stone and the interior wall. If none of what I am saying makes sense you may want to try and locate handyman services Austin.
If you do not have a caulk gun, you will need one, which can be purchased for a few dollars at any home improvement store. To use a caulking gun, first pull the plunger all the way back and insert the caulking tube. Turn the plunger so the notches engage the trigger of the gun, then push the plunger snugly against the heel of the tube. Cut the nozzle tip with a utility knife and make a hole the size of the bead you want.
To apply caulk, squeeze the trigger and push-don’t pull-the gun along the gap. Pushing the gun drives caulking down into the gap and gives you better adhesion.
To finish out the joint, first wet your finger with soapy water (if the caulking is formulated for soap-and-water cleanup) or a dab of automotive hand cleaner (if the caulking is formulated for solvent cleanup). Run your finger along the joint, smoothing it and pressing the caulk into the joint. Wipe away excess caulk with a rag.
Caulking is also needed in the kitchen and bathrooms to prevent water damage to flooring, walls, and the main structure of the home.
Countertops might need some caulking if there is a possibility of water getting between the countertop and walls. One of the biggest areas of water damage is around bathtubs and showers. Old caulking should be removed prior to putting down new caulk and a small bead of caulk around to base of the shower. The area between the tub or shower and the floor should also be kept caulked.
Taking care of these simple items could save you costly repairs in the future.