As time goes on, you may notice that your siding caulk has peeled away or cracked. When this happens, it doesn’t offer the optimal protection for your siding. Luckily, replacing your siding caulk is an easy task. At P.J. Fitzpatrick, our siding repair experts share how to caulk exterior siding with just a few materials and some time:

1. You want your caulk to stick, so begin your project by cleaning the areas that will be caulked.
2. Use a utility knife to clear out old caulk, flaked paint, damaged wood, dirt, and more.
3. Next, wash out the crevices with a garden hose or water and an old rag.
   1. You can also use a can of compressed air instead of water to blow away any debris.
4. Let your siding dry completely before you caulk it.
5. Next, inspect the area for cracks that are deeper than 1/2″ and wider than 1/4″.
   1. If you find any of these cracks, fill them in with filler rope. This will give the area a better preparation for your caulk.
6. If you’re caulking wood siding, apply a coat of primer to the area that will be caulked. Do your best to work the primer into the gaps as best as possible.
7. After that, load your tube of caulk into your caulking gun.
8. Next, use water to dampen a foam brush.
9. Run a bead of caulk along the desired area.
10. Then, use your damp foam brush to smooth down the caulk and make sure it’s applied to all seams.
11. Dampen an old rag and use it to wipe away an excess caulk.
    1. You can also use painter’s tape to create a cleaner joint. Just make sure you remove the tape before the caulk dries.
12. Let the caulk dry completely and you’re done! That’s how to caulk exterior siding on your home.