Can I caulk around this window trim? (sh.itjust.works)

submitted 8 months ago* (last edited 8 months ago) by [email protected] to c/[email protected]

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There's a little gap at the bottom left and if I tug on the trim, it's loose and hollow. I can hear road noise coming in from behind it.

I just wanted to check if it's safe to caulk here before I fill that gap with a strip of foam, then caulk it off. Ie if there's any purpose to the trim being loose that I'm unaware of.

Edit: this is the interior.

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[-] [email protected] 28 points 8 months ago

If it's your house, you can put your caulk anywhere.

[-] [email protected] 21 points 8 months ago

I'd try clear silicone. Very easy to work with, won't stain, and pretty easy to peel off if you need to. Won't hurt, will probably help.

[-] [email protected] 14 points 8 months ago

Yeah but you’ll need black caulk. You’ll just need to ask around for it.

[-] [email protected] 20 points 8 months ago

You'll also definitely want the thickest consistency.

So be sure to ask for thick black caulk.

[-] [email protected] 21 points 8 months ago

So I ask the guy at home depot for the longest, thickest, blackest caulk, right?

[-] [email protected] 6 points 8 months ago

Is this picture from the exterior? I'm guessing this is a fixed vinyl (as opposed to wood) window?

If it's the exterior, that gap might be for water drainage. If it's the interior it might be for equalizing interior and exterior pressure. I'm doubtful either is the case though.

Filling the gap is likely okay.

[-] [email protected] 1 points 8 months ago* (last edited 8 months ago)

This is the interior of a fixed window. Below it is a sliding screen window, then a sliding single pane window, and finally another sliding single pane window.

[-] [email protected] 1 points 8 months ago

Unfortunately since these are single pane windows most of the thermal performance issues will be due to the glass. Sealing this gap will help some, but it will be just a drop in the bucket.

Replacing the windows with insulated glass (two pane) windows is ideal. However that will be expensive.

The easiest/cheapest option will be the temporary cling-film type kits you can buy--you won't be able to operate the windows, but that probably won't be an issue in the winter. Properly sized/installed storm windows will help some too, and be significantly cheaper than new windows.

[-] [email protected] 5 points 8 months ago

I mean nothing stopping you. Just make sure to use something outdoor/ weather proof.

this post was submitted on 31 Oct 2023

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