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I live in an old saltbox built in the early 1700’s and some – most – of the windows are original and you builders probably know how they are set in. And they are very, very heavy. So every couple of years they pull away a tad from the house, but even a hairline crack is enough to let in too much moisture, esp. in a driving rain. I’ve read everything on this site about how to caulk and about various caulks including low-pressure foam. Is that all there is? Obviously the caulking used – probably exterior acrylic latex – doesn’t last long and I am leery of the foam due to toxic compounds because this type of window frame is not flush with the house but is set in and extends out nearly 2″ on all sides. This would mean that any caulking would logically creep to the inside a little, which would be OK if you never opened the window. And they are not double-hung, BTW, you have to prop them open with a stick. Anyway, flashing is used on the top but you can’t do it on the sides because of the clapboards. So, short of recaulking constantly, any ideas? And is Pur-Fil low-expanding foam relatively safe for larger problems?
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I recommend using a urethane caulk such as NP-1 made by sonneborn co. it sticks to anything, stays flexible forever, and will outlast you and I both. Although I don't envy you the task of trying to dig the old dried caulk out of there.... good luck.
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I would like to know the labor cost, materials cost ratio for a low to middle cost house built in the northeast.
john morris
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I live in an old saltbox built in the early 1700's and some - most - of the windows are original and you builders probably know how they are set in. And they are very, very heavy. So every couple of years they pull away a tad from the house, but even a hairline crack is enough to let in too much moisture, esp. in a driving rain. I've read everything on this site about how to caulk and about various caulks including low-pressure foam. Is that all there is? Obviously the caulking used - probably exterior acrylic latex - doesn't last long and I am leery of the foam due to toxic compounds because this type of window frame is not flush with the house but is set in and extends out nearly 2" on all sides. This would mean that any caulking would logically creep to the inside a little, which would be OK if you never opened the window. And they are not double-hung, BTW, you have to prop them open with a stick. Anyway, flashing is used on the top but you can't do it on the sides because of the clapboards. So, short of recaulking constantly, any ideas? And is Pur-Fil low-expanding foam relatively safe for larger problems?
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Marilyn, I would look into fixing the problem of the windows loosening up first. what do you mean they pull a tad away from the house? Do you nail them tight again before you re-caulk?
I would use urethane caulk too. Vulcum is another brand. The foam products you are considering are made for interior not exterior use. (Oh, by the way you said "external" you aren't thinking of using this caulk to solve any personal sagging problems are you?)