How do you re-caulk old windows?

Question

I am currently living in a house that is 54 years old. The window are all original and in dire need of replacing. However, I am not in a position to do that currently.

What I would like to know is how to go about removing the old caulk from the exterior of the windows and replace it, thus allowing for at least a few more years of use.

Step-by-step instructions would be appreciated.

Also - a list of tools and supplies.

Answer 1

This isn't too tough a job.  

Parts

Razor knife and blades.

New points (small metal "pins" that push into the wood to hold glass in)

Flat screwdriver 1/4"

New putty (can or tubes)

1" or 1 1/2" putty knife.

You run the knife around the perimeter of the putty (next to each panes' frame) to loosen the putty from the wood.  Wedge the putty knife between the glass and the putty to  remove the old stuff.

Replace any pins that may have come out with the old putty.

There should be one centered top and bottom, two on the sides.  You place them flat on the glass and push them in with the screwdriver.

Scoop new putty from can/ pump new caulk from gun

and press it all around the window

at a 45 angle.  Run the putty knife all around at that angle to smooth it out and remove the excess.

Years ago we would linseed oil the frames below the putty.

But I think that would limit you to only oil-based paints for the frames.  I don't think it's a must now a days.

Answer 2

1- get a good water-proof caulking, 2-clean area, take out all old caulk, and scrape around window sills to get smooth, 3-WITH CLEAN HANDS. apply caulking, don't be cheap, apply good amount and smooth out with finger( very messy- have wet rag near)check for spaces in caulking and fill, you don't want any area for wind to get thru..items needed-tubs of caulk,scrapper,wet rag( use disposable cloth-don't keep it)hope this helped

Answer 3

You will need a utility knife, a pint-sized caulk gun, and possibly a putty knife.  Materials needed will be several tubes of 100% silicone caulk, in a color to match your windows.

First, you will need to remove the old caulk.  Using the knife, cut along the edge of the window and the edge of the surround.  Using the blade of the knife or the putty knife, dig out all of the old caulk.  Scrape away any loose materials.

Next, take a tube of caulk and cut the nozzle very close to the top.  You don't want the bead too large.  You can always cut it bigger if desired.  You may need to puncture the seal inside the tip.  Many caulk guns come with a small wire attached for this purpose.  Squeeze the trigger until you see the tip filling with caulk.  Apply the tip to the gap between the window and surround.  As you apply steady pressure to the trigger, smoothly draw the tip along the window.  When you reach the end, press the button to release the pressure on the tube.  Be careful though, it may still leak caulk.  This will take a little practice, but you should learn the technique relatively quickly.  After completing one side, you can "tool" the joint is desired.  Spit on your finger and draw it along the bead to smooth it out.  Wipe the excess off with a rag.  Repeat until the joint is satisfactory.  Do the same for the rest of the windows.  Hope this helps.  Good luck.

Answer 4

just use a utility knife (razorblade knife) and cut it out. Then recaulk.

Answer 5

Seriously, a monkey in a clown suit could caulk windows!!