April showers are just around the corner so it’s time to protect your home from the water. Caulking can be challenging the first time you try it but you will quickly get the hang of it. By caulking the areas around your doors and windows at least once per year you will protect your home from water damage. To get started you will need the following tools:

• Putty knife
• Tube of caulk
• Caulking gun

1. Start by using a putty knife to scrape the joint where the window frame and wall join to remove any old caulk or dirt.

2. if you have a wire brush, go over the area you just cleaned. This will help the caulk adhere.

3. Grab your caulk gun and open up the end to insert the caulk tube into the gun. Cut a small diagonal hole at the end of the tube, using a razor knife or utility scissors.

4. Use a nail and push it into the opening you just cut to break the seal (if it isn’t broken). Squeeze the caulk gun trigger until caulk starts to come out through the tip. Press the release latch at the other end to stop the flow of caulk.

5. Set the flat part of the tip at the end of the window frame where it meets the wall. Squeeze the trigger slowly, pulling the caulk gun along the joint, making a thin, flat, even line of caulk. Don’t stop moving the gun as you lay the caulk. Press the release latch when you get to the end of the line to stop the flow of caulk.

6. Repeat for each area around the window, everywhere that two different materials meet, whether there is a gap or not. Immediately wipe up any extra caulk with a damp cloth. Let the caulk set overnight. You can also use you finger or a tool to smooth out the caulk and ensure all gaps are covered.