Home maintenance is one of those never-ending tasks.
There’s always something that needs to be done, and it can sometimes feel like a full-time job in itself. While some homeowners might dread the thought of sealing cracks and gaps around their home, it’s actually a relatively easy task that can make a big difference in your home’s energy efficiency. Leaving cracks and crevices unsealed can lead to drafts, moisture damage, and higher energy bills.
Additionally, it keeps away pests and insects from getting inside your home. However, if you suspect that your home has cracks or gaps, before running for your mastic man sealant, understanding the process ensures that you’ll get the job done right.
Here are seven easy steps for sealing cracks and gaps around your home:
Step #1: Inspect the Home’s Exterior
Before you can seal the cracks and gaps around your home, you need to take a close look at the homes exterior. Look for any cracks or gaps in the foundation, siding, or trim. Also, check around doors and windows to see if there are any gaps where air can enter. Once you have identified all potential problem areas, you can move on to step two.
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Step #2: Clean the Surfaces
Before you can seal up any cracks or gaps, you need to ensure that the surfaces are clean and free of debris. Otherwise, the sealant will just adhere to dirt and grime, and it won’t be nearly as effective. The best way to clean surfaces for sealing is with a vacuum cleaner. If there’s any loose dirt or grit, go over the area with the vacuum attachment to suck it up. For tougher debris, like grease or sap, you may need to use a degreaser or an all-purpose cleaner.
Step #3: Apply the Sealant
After you’ve thoroughly cleaned the area and allowed it to dry, it’s time to apply the sealant. Silicone sealant is the best type of sealant to use for cracks and gaps around the home because it’s durable, weather-resistant, and flexible. It can also be painted over if necessary.
Depending on the crack or gap size, you may need to use a caulking gun. Start by cutting the tip of the tube at a 45-degree angle, then insert it into the gun. Next, position the gun over the crack or gap and slowly squeeze the trigger until the sealant starts to come out. Once you have a good bead of sealant, smooth it out with your finger or a putty knife. Then, wait for the sealant to dry before painting or staining over it.
Step #4: Inspect the Area
Once you’ve applied the sealant, it’s crucial to inspect the area to make sure that you’ve adequately sealed the crack or gap. In some cases, you may need to apply a second layer of sealant to ensure a tight seal. If the crack or gap is still visible, you may need to use a wider bead of sealant or a different type of sealant altogether.
Step #5: Repeat as Necessary
The final step in sealing cracks and gaps around your home is to repeat the process as necessary. Over time, weather and other factors can cause the sealant to degrade, so it’s important to check regularly and reapply when needed.
Final Thoughts
While this may seem like a daunting task at first, once you’ve started sealing those gaps, it’s actually pretty easy to maintain. Just be sure to inspect regularly and reapply sealant as necessary.
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