Sealing the gap between your siding and concrete is a way of protecting your home from the elements on top of increasing your property value and beautifying your home’s exterior. Fixing the gap is also a matter of saving energy costs from insulation, as these small gaps can ruin your indoor climate and result in higher utility costs—so how do you seal it?We've researched the process to give you an answer.
To seal the gaps, you will need to do the following:
- Clean and caulk the concrete
- Measure the concrete walls
- Prepare the siding strips
- Form a right angle with the strips
- Cover the concrete corners
- Assemble the side corners on the quoin
- Install the horizontal siding strips
- Seal onto the concrete, then paint
There are still much to know about sealing the gaps on your siding, and siding in general. We will be expounding on some of the subjects you may not know about sealing the gaps between siding and concrete, as well as tips and recommendations from experts that will keep your home sturdy and protected.
How To Seal The Gap Between Siding And Concrete
Gather these tools first to successfully complete the project:
- Caulk gun
- Sealant
- Cleaning hose
- Industrial adhesives
- Cordless drill gun
- Duct tape
- Leftover lumber
- Hammer
- Measuring Tape
- Primer Solution
- Razor knife
- Siding boards
- Bristle brush
- Acrylic caulk
- Paint
Now, it’s time to get our hands dirty, fill the gaps, and repair the house’s exterior.
Clean and caulk the concrete
Mold, mildew, and debris can gather inside the cracks and make your house vulnerable, which is why you need to spray it with water mixed with a strong cleaning agent. Once you have brushed off the remaining dirt, let it dry and start filling your caulk gun with silicone-based caulk. Fill any cracks and holes you see with caulk, destroying fungi and bacteria as you go.
Measure the concrete walls
Bring out the measuring tape and note the length and height of the wall. You will need to compare it with your siding and cut them at least 2 to 2.5 inches shorter than the wall since it is bound to enlarge due to thermal expansion.
Prepare the siding strips
Spray your strips with primer to level the sharp edges and make the painting go smoothly. Also, prepare the strips that will snugly fit into the quoin by scoring it with a razor knife.
Form a right angle with the strips
Make two ends meet to create a corner fitting your house’s exterior. You will need support lumber to correctly form a 90-degree angle, measured an inch longer than the siding strip. Secure with an industrial adhesive, and screw along the length to ensure durability.
Cover the concrete corners and assemble the side corners on the quoin
First, lather a thick layer of sealant on the concrete corners to prevent moisture from accumulating into it. Then, screw in the assembled corners along the quoin of your house. Make sure it is firmly secured.
Install the horizontal siding strips
First, ensure that all strip ends are primed before attaching them. Then, position the strips overlapping the concrete floor but not touching the concrete porch pad. Place the succeeding strips in an overlapping manner, but only for about two inches—just enough to cover the fastener.
Seal sidings onto the concrete
Use duct tape and place it at the top portion of the siding strip, spanning until you get to the lowest part. Close the gap with a caulk gun, sealing between all the strips. Let the caulking dry before removing the duct tape, then repeat the process on the other strips.
Paint the strips
Paint along the strips to make the exterior attractive. It is recommended to use waterproof paint to ensure that it will not melt and sag when you clean it. Add some finishing touches, and you’re done.
What can you use as house siding?
Some of the more popular sidings are known to be adaptive to weather changes and keep the home safe from dust and fungi. If you are considering changing your siding entirely, consider these cost-effective options that can protect and decorate your home.
Vinyl Siding
Vinyl sidings costs around $3-$8 per square foot, making it an affordable option. With its affordability also comes durability, as it can last as long as 50 years with proper maintenance and care. You also have a wide range of design options as it comes with various textures and colors that add value to your home.
Check out: "Does Vinyl Siding Make A House Warmer?"
Insulated Siding
This siding is a type of vinyl with an insulating feature. It is made from Expanded Polystyrene foam (EPS), which can contain air better during the summer season, making it energy-efficient. A good insulating siding can lower your utility costs by 20%, one that EPS can offer.
Wood Siding
If you opt for wood siding, you need to make sure that the home is properly ventilated and has good insulation. This is because wood is prone to moisture and heat-related issues. Wood offers benefits such as good insulation and a variety of styles, but you will need a paint finish to protect it.
Metal Siding
Metal siding can be a cheap alternative, however, be aware that it is prone to denting and can have durability issues. It can be an eco-friendly option on top of being low-maintenance, which makes it a reasonable choice for siding. Make sure you insulate it properly and fill the gaps between concrete to protect your home.
Fiber Cement Siding
Fiber cement is your best option for siding because of its sturdiness and rot-resistant features. It can also withstand insect damage, which is a great option if you live in a tropical area. However, it can cost you as much as $10 per square foot, so be sure to get your money’s worth by installing it properly and filling all the gaps as necessary.
Stucco
Stucco is a great option if you live in a particularly dry area, but it does not hold well in wetter areas. It is made with lime and cement, so it is easy to clean with a pressure hose.
Check out: "Does Stucco Have An R-Value?"
Glass Siding
Glass siding can give your home a luxurious appeal. It allows for more natural light inside the home; it also gives off the illusion of a wider interior. However, it will require regular cleaning as it can be prone to dirt and dust.
Brick Siding
Brick is extremely durable and low maintenance, but it is on the costlier side. It is suitable for houses experiencing a colder climate as brick has insulating properties, and its aesthetic gives off a rustic appeal that can improve your exterior.
Engineered Wood Siding
Engineered wood can be a good alternative to authentic wood. It can last you for 20-30 years, depending on the maintenance. If you choose this as siding, note that you cannot stain or paint over it.
How do you seal wood and concrete?
Wood siding requires a water-resistant panel or membrane to remain dry and sealed to the concrete. Wood is sensitive to moisture, so you will need something waterproof to protect its structural integrity and sealing.
Should you seal the bottom of your siding?
The bottom of your siding should remain open and never sealed, as this is the passageway for water and moisture. Allowing water to gather will ruin your concrete and create gaps from the siding, allowing for the growth of fungi and mold.
What caulking is best for the siding?
As you seal the gaps between your siding and concrete, Polyurethane is your best bet. It is resistant to UV-ray exposure, so it will not turn yellowish, unlike other types of caulk.
What is the best option for a primer?
Primer should always be used, especially when painting your siding. This will ensure a smooth painting job and will result in a seamless exterior. You can use acrylic primer, oil-based primer, and primer for masonry, which is best for siding made of stucco and brick.
Final Thoughts
If you notice any changes in your home’s insulation and humidity, inspect your siding since it could easily be the culprit. Sealing the gaps between your siding and concrete will protect your home from bacteria, mold, and fungi caused by water entering through the small holes underneath. Make sure to regularly check if your siding are still snugly shut and there are no gaps peeking from the concrete.