The Caulking Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

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This step is crucial to ensure that adequate sealant can be applied to both the window frame and the adjacent substrate. It prevents three-sided adhesion, which affects the sealant's ability to expand and contract. 

Although removing the old caulking may seem sufficient, it’s vital to eliminate all dust, debris, and built-up film from the window frame for the best results. The caulking should bond directly to the frame itself, not to a layer of dust or film accumulated over the years.

backer rod is inserted into the void between the window and the opening to act as support for the sealant and prevent three-sided adhesion. Not all applications will allow for backer rod.

Apply the caulking product over the gap that's being sealed ensuring adequate coverage on both the window frame and the substrate of the opening. 

Tooling the caulking serves two purposes, the first is push the product against the substrates creating a complete seal, and second to make the sealant look aesthetically pleasing.