Unless invited in, weather conditions belong outside. To prevent the elements -- rain, snow, wind, even dust and dirt particles -- from being unwanted guests in your home, inspect windows, doors, exhaust vents, skylights and other openings yearly. You should examine caulk for shrinkage (has it peeled away?) and flexibility (is it dry, cracked or crumbling?), and weatherstrip for obvious signs of wear (flattened or non-existent pile and torn or cracked rubber). Addressing any problems you discover could mean lower heating and cooling costs.

Although the idea of recaulking around windows, doors, etc. may seem intimidating, with sufficient practice and a high-quality sealant and caulk gun, it needn't be. There are many types of exterior caulk on the market, but Thermoplastic, available in a full range of colours, is an excellent choice. It adheres to all exterior surfaces including vinyl, aluminum and brick, and "skins over" allowing it to remain pliable. Remember, before you begin: remove all deteriorated caulk and foreign matter including surface dirt, dust, loose particles or other contaminants which may inhibit adhesion; cut the plastic tip of the sealant tube on a 45-degree angle; and do not apply in excessive amounts (ask in store for joint width/sealant depth instructions).

As for weatherstrip, it is more than just the rubber strip that runs across the bottom of your exterior doors. It can also be found running up the latch side, along the header and down the hinge side of door jambs or frames, on window sashes, and, in some cases, window sills and side jambs. Door jambs that house steel doors typically feature magnetic and compression weatherstrip (door jambs for wood and fibreglass doors use compression only), while storm doors use Schlegel or pile weatherstrip and windows have both pile and bulb.

When replacing window weatherstrip, be sure to replace it with the type and style originally used. This holds true for steel doors and door jambs as well, unless what is currently in use isn't, or never has been, sufficient. Often times, a warped steel door slab or door frame, or a build up of paint, hinders magnetic weatherstrip's ability to adhere. A switch to compression weatherstrip may help.

For further information regarding caulking and weatherstripping, contact an Aluminum Associates sales representative at 453-6400 or visit our 1801 Trafalgar St. showroom.