Caulking Nail Holes In Siding

It is important to apply caulk to a clean area.

Caulking nail holes in siding.

When you apply the compound it locks into the holes for a better bond. For larger holes use a 1 inch putty knife. Nail holes in exterior surfaces just as with cracks or gaps can be dealt with using a good caulking. Before filling the hole wipe the siding clean.

Holes in wood trim are best filled with wood filler. Fill in the hole with a tinted caulk that matches your siding or opt for a paintable version. Just cut the top flange off so that the patch fits under the course above and embed it in adhesive caulk along the top and sides. You can also cover damage with a new piece of siding.

The best exterior caulk for blocking large pest holes. Squirt enough caulk into the hole to fill the area behind the hole. You can mend small holes such as nail holes with exterior caulk designed to stick to vinyl. Avoid smearing excess caulk all over the surrounding siding the less you get on the siding the less obvious the repair will be.

Trim the tip of the tube of caulk with a utility knife or razor blade. Using caulk is a straightforward task that any homeowner can accomplish in an afternoon. Or work it as smooth as possible by shaving it off with a putty knife or working it in with your fingertips. Completely fill the nail holes leaving them slightly crowned to sand after the epoxy sets.

A diyer or a novice painter might attempt to achieve a cleaner look by caulking the siding nails but the nail is guaranteed to push the caulking material out within a few months. To avoid making holes use vinyl siding clips instead of fasteners to hang decorations. Because of this you will need to wash the nail hole and the area around it. Once the caulk is fully cured which could be several days depending on the type trim it even with the siding with a razor blade.

Step 1 preparing the area. The nails holding up the siding should not be caulked. For small holes use your finger. Squirt the caulk into the hole so it fills the area behind the siding until it sticks out just a little from the front of the hole.

But before you apply the filler drill numerous 1 8 inch diameter holes in the patch area. To close up a nail hole you only need caulk a few common household items and the willingness to use them. Use around electrical outlets exterior pipes and window jambs. Use a pest resistant foam sealant for sealing exterior gaps and holes since mice can eat through some types of sealants.

For small holes make the opening in the tube no more than 60 to 70 percent of the width of the hole in the wood.