How to Caulk and Cap Windows

How to Caulk and Cap Windows
Published: Jun 30, 2010
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
1 minute read
  1. Remove the existing capping, if the caulk and capping are being replaced. Place a pry bar between the capping and the wall and gently pull the capping away from the wall. If the installation is behind siding, remove the course of siding above the window with the pry bar.

  2. Measure the depth of the thickness of the window that is protruding from the house. Add ½ inch. Use this measurement to draw a line across the edge of the sheet of metal capping.

  3. Align the corner of a straight board on the fold mark drawn in the previous step. Fold the capping to create a 90-degree angle using the edge of the board as a guide. Measure the width of the window and trim the capping to the width of the window with an additional ½ inch.

  4. Fold ¼ inch down on each side and ½ inch down on the front using the corner of the board to keep the fold straight.

  5. Apply a bead of exterior caulk around the perimeter of the window.

  6. Position the capping on top of the window. Trim the remaining portion above the window if needed to slide the capping under at least one full course of siding.

  7. Attach the window cap to the wall with roofing nails. Replace the siding if the cap was a replacement.

Tips

Too much caulk between the capping and window is better than not enough. Be sure to use a liberal amount of caulk to prevent air and moisture flow between the cap and the window.

Photo Credits

window wreath image by Jorge Moro from Fotolia.com

Emily Patterson

Emily Patterson has been creating content for websites since 1996. She specializes in home improvement, natural body care and natural cleaning articles. Patterson holds a computing certificate from Penn State University.

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