The ins and outs of caulking

Abstract

Effective water management involves understanding the roles of siding, trim, fenestration units, flashing, and (where appropriate) caulk seals and how these entities interface with each other. Where caulk seals are used, their geometry and dimensions are important to joint performance, as is the care with which they are executed. In selection of caulking material, consideration should be given to compatibility with substrates, to ambient conditions at application and during cure, and to the skill level of the applicator. Where and when caulk seals are used, they should not be assumed to remain functional indefinitely.

Citation

Carll, Charles. 2006. The ins and outs of caulking. General Technical Report FPL-GTR-169. Madison, WI: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Forest Products Laboratory. 8 p.