Checking and Caulking Windows

Spring is going to be here one of these days. It would be a good time to check your windows and outside doors for gaps in caulk around windows and doors. A good way to check to see if you have air coming in around you windows is to take a candle and hold it around where the inside edge of the window or door,of course it could be coming from old windows, if there is a gap or leak the candle will flicker, just dont catch your curtains on fire and burn your house down. Go on the outside of the house and check and see if the caulking is cracked or has missing caulk. If there is missing or cracked caulk, you will need to take out the old caulking,and replace it with new.They do make a caulk softner that is applied a couple of hours before you dig out the old caulking, I use a putty knife and sometimes even a screwdriver. It is better to use a silicone caulking, it doesnt shrink or dry out as much as a latex. You will need a caulking gun for your caulking in a tube. Cut the end off at a 45 degree angle and run a slow smooth bead around your window.Let dry for 12 hours or so. A person can save money by not letting that cold air in around your windows and doors.