Silicone offers long-term protection to elements MIDLAND, Mich., Nov. 18 /PRNewswire/ -- With heating costs predicted to reach all-time highs this winter, keeping cold air out of your house is more important than ever. As a first line of defense, home improvement experts emphasize the importance of sealing obvious air leaks around doors, windows and other areas that might allow cold air in, such as openings for plumbing and electrical service, and attic and dryer vents and ducts. (Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20051118/DEFFNS1 ) Many times, these leaks can be sealed with a simple application of caulk, which commonly comes in cartridges designed for caulk guns, but also comes in squeeze tubes and pressurized cans, said Erin Zimmer, Marketing Manager for Construction Industries, Dow Corning. "These products are easy to use and effective air sealing, combined with the right amount of insulation, can save up to 10 percent on energy bills, as well as keep you and your family comfortable," Zimmer said. Selecting a caulk Caulking compounds come in a variety of strengths, properties, and prices. Fundamentally, caulk needs to stick to the surfaces you are using it on and to stay flexible so that it maintains a good seal. Latex and acrylic are less expensive than silicone, but they don't last as long. They clean up with water, and they can be painted. Latex or acrylic should only be used in cracks that won't expand and contract beyond 1/8th of an inch. Also, some contain volatile organic compounds. Silicone can be used indoor and outdoor and lasts longer and adheres better than latex or acrylic. In addition, it is the best type of caulk for gaps that may expand and contract. It is weather resistant and will not crack from ultraviolet rays. It sets up quickly, so proper application is advised and because it resists moisture. "Because of its durability, silicone offers homeowners peace of mind for the long term," said Zimmer. When deciding how much caulking to purchase, consider that you'll probably need a half-cartridge per window or door. Preparing the surface For best results, thoroughly clean any concrete, masonry or stone with a wire brush and wash away contaminants such as water repellents and surface treatments before caulking. Porous surfaces should be sanded, and metal, glass and plastic surfaces should be cleaned with a mineral spirit or alcohol solvent and wiped dry with a clean cloth or lint-free paper towel to remove residue. Applying the caulk To make sure the caulk will set properly and adhere to the surface, the best time to apply caulk is during dry weather when the outdoor temperature is above 45 degrees F (7.2 degrees C). Low humidity is important during application to prevent cracks from swelling with moisture. To apply the caulk, hold the gun at a 45 degree angle to get deep into the crack and caulk in one straight continuous stream, if possible. Make sure to apply as narrow a bead of caulk as possible; you can always apply more caulk, but removing extra can pose a problem. Dow Corning (http://www.dowcorning.com/ ) provides performance-enhancing solutions to serve the diverse needs of more than 25,000 customers worldwide. A global leader in silicon-based technology and innovation, offering more than 7,000 products and services. Dow Corning is equally owned by The Dow Chemical Company and Corning, Incorporated. More than half of Dow Corning's annual sales are outside the United States. http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20051118/DEFFNS1 http://photoarchive.ap.org/ DATASOURCE: Dow Corning Corporation CONTACT: Jarrod Erpelding (U.S.) of Dow Corning Corp., +1-989-496-8288 Web site: http://www.dowcorning.com/

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