Spring Maintenance Tip

Spring has arrived and its time to start getting caught up with the maintenance on your home that you put off all winter. With the rainy season upon us, caulking is a big one to take care of. Our houses are built with a moisture barrier behind the brick or paneling but this is sort of a last line of defense from Mother Nature. We want to make sure all the typical areas are sealed up to prevent as much moisture as possible from making it to the moisture barrier. Areas to check are around the windows

Gaps between trim and siding

Roof to wall transitions

Electrical and plumbing penetrations.

The two most popular types of caulking in the Houston climate are acrylic latex and silicone. Both have their advantages and disadvantages. Acrylic latex is easier to apply and clean up and is paintable, but it shrinks over time and if painted will show cracks. Silicone is much more durable but harder to clean up and apply. Silicone is also not paintable in most cases. There are some silicone caulks sold as paintable but you must read the directions as often they must be painted within 48 hours after application. If you're not the do-it-yourself type, a reputable handyman or paint company can be hired to make sure your home is properly sealed. See the attached pictures as reference for where to check the caulking on your home and feel free to call us if you have any questions about home maintenance or water penetration problems with you home.