How To Seal Windows With Vinyl Siding

In this video this old house general contractor tom silva shows how to prevent water from leaking in behind vinyl siding.

How to seal windows with vinyl siding.

Remove the pieces of vinyl siding from around the window area. In this case the objects are the perimeter of the new exterior wall and the perimeter of the old open space. Caulk is used to seal spaces between two objects. Many vinyl siding installers do not realize the importance of the house wrap and its job as the sole water barrier because many people incorrectly.

Often water leaks at a window result from a breakdown in the connection between the window frame and the wall. To prevent leaks caulk the window where it meets the exterior siding. This prevents any air leakage. Vinyl siding by itself does not create a waterproof seal and care must be.

Check to be sure weep holes are open along bottom of window openings. Inspect the area above the leak including both indoors and out. Sealing these spots with caulking is not possible because the siding must expand and contract freely to prevent warping. Caulking can be placed behind the j channel during installation sealing the seam between the j channel and the house wrap also sealing the seam between the j channel and the window itself.

But if done incorrectly it can lend a sloppy amateurish look. Smooth out the caulk. Vinyl siding installs in pieces so gaps and overlaps are normal.