Re-caulk exterior door frames

Why It Matters

Gaps around door frames let water into wall cavities and cold air into the house, driving up energy bills and risking rot.

Tools

• Utility knife or caulk removal tool
• Putty knife
• Wire brush or stiff-bristle brush
• Caulk gun
• Clean rags

Materials

• Exterior caulk
• Isopropyl alcohol or mild cleaner

How to Do It

1. Score and peel away the old caulk along both sides of the door trim where it meets the siding, using a utility knife and putty knife.
2. Scrub the joint with a stiff brush to remove any remaining caulk residue, dirt, and loose paint.
3. Wipe the surface clean with a damp rag and allow it to dry completely before applying new caulk.
4. Cut the caulk tube tip at a 45-degree angle to match the width of the joint, then load it into the caulk gun.
5. Apply a smooth, continuous bead of exterior caulk along the full length of each joint where the trim meets the siding.
6. Smooth the bead with a dampened finger or tool, pressing it into the joint, and allow it to cure per the manufacturer's instructions before exposure to rain.

Related Tasks

• Replace exterior door weatherstripping Once a year
• Inspect foundation and exterior drainage Once a year
• Re-caulk exterior window frames Once a year