Canadian winters can be tough on your home, especially around doors and thresholds. Drafts, leaks, and moisture can sneak in through even the smallest gaps, raising energy bills and making your space less comfortable. The right caulking can protect your home year-round, sealing out the cold, snow, and rain. Here’s a guide from the experts at Kettle Contracting, helping homeowners in Oshawa, Ajax, Pickering, and Toronto choose the best caulking for doors in Canadian weather.
Understanding What Makes Good Door Caulking
Door caulking in Canada needs to handle extreme temperature swings, from freezing winters to humid summers. The key is choosing a product that stays flexible, adheres well to different surfaces, and resists cracking or peeling.
Look for these qualities:
- Weather resistance: Able to handle cold, snow, and UV exposure
- Elasticity: Expands and contracts with temperature changes
- Adhesion: Bonds securely to wood, metal, and vinyl
- Durability: Withstands moisture and prevents mold or mildew
Silicone vs Latex Caulk for Doors
Many homeowners wonder which type of caulk is best for exterior doors. Both silicone and latex caulks have advantages, but one usually performs better in Canada’s harsh climate.
- Silicone caulk is ideal for outdoor use. It’s waterproof, flexible, and doesn’t shrink. It’s perfect for sealing gaps between the door frame and siding or threshold, keeping drafts out all winter.
- Latex caulk is easier to apply and paint over, making it a good choice for indoor trims or areas with mild weather exposure. However, it doesn’t hold up as well under freezing temperatures or constant moisture.
For most Canadian homes, a high-quality silicone caulk or hybrid sealant works best for exterior door caulking.
Cold Weather vs All-Season Caulk
When temperatures drop below freezing, standard caulk can be hard to apply and may not adhere properly. That’s where cold-weather caulk comes in.
- Cold-weather caulking is designed to cure even in temperatures as low as -20°C.
- All-season caulk can work year-round but may take longer to set in extreme cold.
If you plan to seal your doors during winter, use a cold-weather product. For spring or fall maintenance, an all-season sealant is a great choice.
Best Areas to Caulk Around Your Door
Caulking isn’t just for the visible gaps. To truly weatherproof your entryway, make sure to seal:
- The sides and top of the exterior door frame
- The threshold area, where drafts often enter
- Any gaps between trim and siding
- Screw holes or cracks around weatherstripping or door hardware
How to Apply Door Caulking in Canadian Conditions
Proper application ensures the seal lasts through every season.
- Clean the surface to remove dust, peeling paint, or old caulk.
- Cut the caulk tube at a 45° angle for easy application.
- Apply a steady bead along gaps, using a caulking gun.
- Smooth the caulk with a damp finger or tool.
- Allow curing time according to the manufacturer’s directions.
Avoid applying caulk in heavy rain or snow. Choose a mild day when the surface is dry for best results.
When to Call a Professional Door Caulking Service
If you notice drafts even after DIY sealing, or if your door frame is uneven or damaged, it’s time to bring in professionals. A door caulking service near you, like Kettle Contracting, ensures proper materials and techniques are used for maximum weather protection. Professionals can also address related issues such as threshold caulking, weatherproof seal installation, and draft prevention.
Keep Your Home Warm and Efficient Year-Round
Protect your home from drafts, moisture, and rising energy costs with expert door caulking services in Oshawa, Ajax, Pickering, and Toronto. The right sealant keeps your home comfortable and efficient no matter how harsh Canadian winters get.
Draft-Proof Your Home Today
Ready to weatherproof your doors? Contact Kettle Contracting today for professional exterior door caulking and threshold sealing services in the GTA. Keep your home warm, energy-efficient, and draft-free this season.
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