Hello,
I've been looking around using Google but haven't found an answer to whether you can apply caulk if it's colder than 40 degrees F. to the exterior. I see the caulk container states that it's best to apply when 40 degrees or above, but can it be used in colder temperatures? My thought is that it simply may take longer to cure. But as long as it's not freezing, can the caulk still be applied?

Reason for this concern is that I've ordered 17 windows and they should be ready by first week of November and it may be already quite cold by then. My hope is that I can manage to install these windows quickly and on days when the temperature will be suitable for caulking.

I'm located in SW Michigan, so colder temperatures are not too far away.

Would it be possible to just caulk the inside of the exterior stops and just wait to caulk around the exterior of the window later, when the temperature is sufficient? What are your thoughts?

Regards,
John

 

Most manufacturers of caulk recommend 45 degrees and above and low humidity during dry weather. The warmer temperature is necessary so that the caulk will properly set. Most specify a temperature range (recommended low & high) for application. If temperature is too hot when applied, caulk contracts in winter and breaks the seal.

 

Thanks for the quick reply twelvepole. Just wonder if applying caulk to the inside of the exterior stops would work until warmer days are available for finishing the outside. Do you think there would be sufficient heat in the walls at the interior of the exterior stops? Sure would hate to have to wait 'till next Spring to install all these windows!!! Wanted to start saving energy this year!

Regard,
John

 

My concern would be moisture entering around windows on the exterior if not caulked. Interior caulk would likely sufficiently eliminate the drafts and heat loss around windows, but caulk also seals out moisture and potential damage on the exterior.

Farmer's Almanac is forecasting colder than normal temperatures and higher than normal precipitation. We are suppose to get an Arctic blast next week.

 

Thought the same thing... almost mentioned it in the earlier post.

I guess I'm limited to what the weather will permit me to get accomplished this year. Sure hate the thought of all those expensive windows sitting in the garage this winter!

Thanks for your thoughts on the subject.

Regards,
John

 

Windows will be waiting for you in the spring. We look forward to hearing from you then. In the meantime, we will help you with other DIY projects.

 

My thoughts are that if it's latex caulk, and it will cure before the temp drops below 32-35F or so, you would be okay caulking the windows. Its likely that your windows will be above 40F since you are losing some heat from the home. But I would definitely not recommend caulking if the temp will drop below 32F at anytime within 3-5 days. Frozen uncured caulking no longer has the same qualities once it thaws.

Your other option is to use an oil based / polyurethane exterior caulking that can be used any time of the year. I use OSI Quad all winter long.

 

Thank you for your insight. I see DAP puts out a hybrid sealant called Side Winder. That might do the job too.

Regards,
John