Should I caulk where wood siding overlaps?

Question

There was caulking there from a previous do-it-yourself paint job but as with all do-it-yourself jobs that were not done by oneself, one can never be sure of the do-it-yourselfer's skill and knowledge. I know you should caulk where the siding meets the corner trim pieces.

Answer 1

Snoman is spot on. Caulk where the siding meets the trim.

Answer 2

No, the joints where one piece of siding laps over another should not be caulked.

You do need to caulk where siding meets the corner trim, and also where the siding meets other vertical trim pieces -- doors, windows, etc.  When you caulk these joints, pay particular attention to the bottom of the siding, you will leave a void there that can trap water if you are not careful.  The caulk needs to be continuous along the trim.

One other place to caulk sometimes is where two pieces of siding are put together.  Depending upon how old the siding is and who put it up, there may or may not be a bit of a gap there.  If there is a gap, caulk it.  If there is no gap, no caulk -- just make sure you get good coverage with your paint in those areas.

Answer 3

If you are talking about wood siding ,then you need to caulk the edge where the siding meets the corner.Water in the corner will lead to rot.