April 1998
This Forest Products Laboratory finishing factsheet covers the "ins and outs" of caulking by explaining how caulking can help or harm wood or wood-based siding and wood-trimmed windows and doors, depending on the circumstances. Caulking can be beneficial if it prevents rainwater from leaking into the siding system or counterproductive if it traps water by inhibiting evaporation and drainage. "The Ins and Outs of Caulking" factsheet covers rainwater management with wood-based siding, caulk and paint performance, potential locations for water leaks, special considerations, and making dependable caulk seals.
Prepared by:
U.S. Department of Agriculture
Forest Service
Forest Products Laboratory
4 pages