Back To Home

How to Close Gap Between Siding and Foundation

Written By

Carmen

/

Closing a gap between the siding and foundation of your home is an important step in protecting your home from weather damage, pests, and other problems. By properly sealing the gap between these two elements, you can prevent water from seeping into the walls of your home and causing mildew or rot. Pests such as mice and rats can also use the gap to access your home’s interior, so sealing it off is necessary.

How to Close Gap Between Siding and Foundation

Closing the gap between the siding and foundation can help protect your home from moisture damage, pests, and drafts. By sealing this area, you can help keep water out of your basement, prevent pest entry into your home, and reduce inefficient air loss through the walls. The most common method for closing the gap is to use a caulk or sealant.

This cost-effective solution is easy to apply and can help keep your home safe and comfortable year-round. You can find step-by-step instructions on how to close gap between siding and foundation in this blog article.

Step-by-step Instructions for How to Close Gap Between Siding and Foundation

Step 1: Inspect  the Foundation

Inspect the foundation for any signs of damage or decay. Take steps to repair damaged sections, or consider replacing the entire section if necessary. Use a wire brush to clean loose debris and dirt between the siding and foundation. Vacuum away the remaining debris.

Step 2: Apply Caulk 

Select a high-quality, exterior-grade caulking appropriate for the siding and foundation materials. Cut the end of the caulk tube nozzle at an angle to create a beveled opening. Fill in the gap between the two surfaces with a continuous bead of caulk, pressing firmly as you go. Once the caulk has been applied, use a wet putty knife to spread and smooth out the caulk evenly. Remove any excess caulking with a damp rag or cloth. Allow the caulk to dry before painting over it (if desired).

Step 3: Fill Cracks with Foam Sealant

For larger gaps that may be present, use a foam sealant to fill in the cracks. Cut off the end of the tube with scissors and then insert the tube into a caulk gun. Apply the foam sealant directly onto the gap, pressing firmly as you go. Use a putty knife to spread and smooth out the foam. Use a utility knife (or another sharp tool) to carefully cut away any excess foam sealant that may be present. Be sure not to damage either the siding or foundation in this process. Discard the excess foam sealant.

Use a Foam Sealant to Fill in the Cracks

Step 4: Cover Gap with Mesh Tape 

Cover the gap between the siding and foundation with mesh tape (self-adhesive or otherwise). Cut the mesh tape to size, if necessary, and then press it tightly against the gap. Make sure to cover up any remaining cracks or holes that may be present. Once the mesh tape is in place, apply a thin layer of caulk over it. This will help to ensure that the gap between the siding and foundation is securely sealed. Again, use a putty knife or other tool to spread the caulk evenly.

Step 5: Cover Caulk with Paint

Once the caulk has had time to dry, cover it up with a layer of paint or another sealant (if desired). This will help to keep moisture out and prevent any damage from occurring in the future. Finally, inspect the gap regularly to ensure that the siding and foundation are securely connected and sealed. Make any necessary repairs or replacements if needed. 

Following these steps can easily close the gap between your siding and foundation. This will help to prevent any water or moisture from seeping in and causing damage. If necessary, contact a professional for assistance with this project.

Tips for How to Close Gap Between Siding and Foundation 

  1. Ensure you wear the proper safety equipment when working with siding materials, such as protective eyewear, gloves, and a dust mask.
  2. Check for any power lines or other hazards that may be in the area before beginning work on the gap between the siding and the foundation.
  3. Consider using caulking or a seal sealant designed for s siding around the foundation.
  4. Be mindful of the weight and balance of the siding materials to prevent them from slipping off while you’re working.
  5. When using a ladder, ensure it is securely placed on level ground and has a helper at the bottom for extra support. Follow all safety guidelines outlined by ladder manufacturers when setting up and using your ladder.
Ensure It is Securely Placed on Level Ground

By following these safety tips, you can properly and safely close the gap between the siding and foundation in your home or building. Make sure to take all necessary precautions before beginning work on any home improvement project.

How Do You Prepare the Surface of the Siding Before Applying Sealant? 

Before applying the sealant to close the gap between the siding and the foundation, it’s important to ensure that the surfaces are clean and dry. To do this:

  • Remove any dirt, dust, or debris from the siding with a soft brush.
  • Use a hose to rinse away loose material and then allow the surfaces to dry.
  • Use a soft brush or cloth and mild detergent to remove any chipping paint or corrosion for painted siding.
  • Once the area is clean, you may need to sand down rough areas with fine-grit sandpaper before applying sealant.
  • Finally, wipe both surfaces with a cloth dampened with mineral spirits, then allow them to dry completely.

Once the surface is clean and dry, you can seal the gap between the siding and your home’s foundation. This will help improve insulation, prevent water from entering your home, and protect against pests that might otherwise find their way through gaps.

How Long Should You Wait Before Painting Over the Sealed Area? 

Once you have closed the gap between your siding and foundation, you will need to wait for the sealant to fully cure before painting over it. The time this takes depends on the type of sealant used and environmental factors like temperature and humidity. 

In general, silicone caulk should take around 24 hours to set completely, while acrylic latex caulk can take up to three days. Make sure to check the instructions on your particular sealant product for the exact curing time. You should also wait a few extra days if you live in an area with high humidity, which can slow down the drying process.

Once the sealant has completely cured, you will be ready to give your house a fresh coat of paint. Make sure to use paint that is specifically designed for exterior surfaces, such as exterior latex or acrylic paint. This will ensure that the color lasts and won’t fade quickly due to weathering.

Give Your House a Fresh Coat

What Type of Paint Should You Use for Painting the Sealed Area? 

When painting the sealed area between your siding and foundation, make sure to choose an appropriate type of paint. Generally, exterior latex paints are best for this purpose as they provide protection against moisture, dirt, mildew, and other outdoor elements. Additionally, you can use alkyd-based primers or acrylic urethane coatings designed specifically for metal siding. Be sure to choose a paint formulated for the type of material you are working with that will provide proper adhesion and coverage. Make sure to read the instructions on your paint can to determine if it is suitable for painting on the sealed area between your siding and foundation before beginning.

For extra protection against water damage, consider applying a sealant or other protective coating over the paint after it has dried. This will ensure that your siding and foundation are completely sealed against the elements and provide maximum protection for years to come. 

How Often Should You Inspect the Siding and Foundation for Any Gaps? 

Inspecting the gap between your siding and foundation should be done at least once a year, or even twice if necessary. In areas with severe weather, checking more frequently is recommended. Anytime you notice water leaking around the base of your home, it’s time to check for gaps that may have formed due to extreme temperatures or shifting ground beneath your foundation. Not only can this help prevent water from entering sensitive areas of the home, it can also help you identify any potential problems before they become major issues.

When inspecting the gap between the siding and the foundation, you should check for any signs of damaged siding material and gaps that may have been caused by settling or shifting. Look for any missing or broken pieces of siding, and make sure to measure the width of the gap itself. If you notice that the gap has widened since your last inspection, it’s time to close it up before more serious damage is done.

Conclusion

One of the main disadvantages of closing the gap between siding and foundation is that it can compromise waterproofing. When the two structures are sealed together, water may be able to seep into your home through cracks or other openings in the siding or foundation. Additionally, if any moisture accumulates behind the siding and doesn’t have a way to escape, it can cause serious damage over time, such as rot, mold, and mildew. 

Moisture Accumulates Behind the Siding

Furthermore, if the gap is too tight between the siding and foundation, it can create pressure that pulls away from one side or another, causing further structural problems. Closing the gap between siding and foundation is essential for preventing moisture damage and improving the overall aesthetic of your home. Fortunately, there are several effective methods for doing so. 

From using caulk or expanding foam to installing a sill gasket or flashing, there is an option that will work best for you. When done correctly, these steps will help to keep the gap between your siding and foundation sealed, keeping moisture out and protecting your home. I hope reading this post has helped you learn how to close gap between siding and foundation. Make sure the safety precautions are carried out in the order listed.

Leave a Comment