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Weatherization Specification Manual
CAULKING WINDOWS AND DOORS
CA 1.0—Introduction
All caulk shall have a minimum 20-year-life rating. Caulk shall be paintable. Prior to applying caulk to window molding, the owner's permission shall be obtained. Caulk shall not be applied to aluminum or vinyl siding.
CA 1.1—Installing Caulk
Loose caulk and dirt shall be removed from the area to be caulked. The width of the gap to be caulked shall not be greater than ½ inch and preferably no greater than 3/8 inch. Joints wider than ½ inch shall be covered with a suitable trim. Gaps deeper than ½ inch shall be filled with polyurethane foam or backer rod or similar materials to support the caulk.
Caulk shall be applied in a workman-like manner. Badly smeared caulk or caulk with gaps shall be thoroughly cleaned and reapplied.