There’s one simple yearly habit that can protect your home from a surprisingly expensive problem: rot. The good news is, it doesn’t involve climbing on your roof or crawling under your house — just a walk around the exterior with a sharp eye and a tube of caulk.
Meet the “caulk audit.” Once a year, usually in the spring or fall, take a slow lap around your home and inspect any place where two materials meet, such as around windows and doors, along siding seams, and where exterior trim meets masonry. Over time, caulking can crack, shrink, or pull away from surfaces, especially after a year of sun, rain, and temperature swings. When that happens, even a tiny gap can invite moisture inside your walls.
And moisture is the enemy. Left unchecked, water can lead to wood rot, mold growth, and damage that spreads until it’s suddenly a major repair job. A five-minute fix today could save you thousands later.
Here’s how to do your caulk audit like a pro:
1. Walk the Perimeter
Closely inspect all joints and seams, paying special attention to areas under eaves, around vent pipes, and along window and door frames. Use a flashlight to help spot any hairline cracks.
2. Test the Seal
If you notice gaps, if the caulk looks dried out, or if it crumbles when pressed, consider that a red flag indicating the seal has failed.
More from our network
House Outlook is part of Inbox Studio, which publishes content that uplifts, informs, and inspires.
3. Clean Before Resealing
Remove old, flaking caulk with a scraper or utility knife, then wipe the area clean of any dirt, dust, or mildew.
4. Choose the Right Caulk
For most exterior applications, a high-quality polyurethane or silicone-based caulk works best. The product should be labeled “exterior” and “paintable.”
5. Seal It Up
Apply the caulk in a smooth, continuous line. Then, immediately run a damp finger or a specialized tool along the bead to create a neat finish.
It’s not glamorous, but a caulk audit is an essential homeowner ritual that pays off big time. It keeps your home dry, protects your paint job, and prevents your siding from quietly decaying.
So before you hang those holiday lights or fire up the grill this year, grab your caulk gun and take a lap. Your future self — and your home — will thank you for it.
