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fulltimecanada's avatar
Nov 02, 2016

Re-caulking Seams

Just a quick question...

Is there any specific reason not to re-caulk over the old caulking when applying? My thought process is that if the original seam is OK or has minor cracks, the new one will just be an extra line of defense against leaks.

Thanks!
  • fulltimecanada wrote:
    Just a quick question...

    Is there any specific reason not to re-caulk over the old caulking when applying? My thought process is that if the original seam is OK or has minor cracks, the new one will just be an extra line of defense against leaks.

    Thanks!
    This, of course, depends on the state of the caulk that is being covered. If you cover up failing caulk, there is the chance of a leak. If you cover good caulk that is still sealing the fixture, that will be OK.
    Since I've used Eternabond tapes, there is no other choice for me. I removed a lot of previous attempts to seal the roof, all of these sealants didn't hold back the water. The Eternabond tapes made my roof leak-proof and I don't need to get up there and apply more caulk.
  • I applied new lap over old lap. Did not stop leaks. Went back up removed all and fixture. Butyl tape fixture. Screws and new lap. No leaks
  • AS long as the old caulk is not silicone you can clean it good and go over it...NOTHING will stick to silicone tho, not even new silicone.
  • gbopp wrote:
    It's okay to leave the old caulk as long as it is solid and intact. I remove any loose areas before applying new caulk.

    Clean the area and the old caulk before applying the new caulk.

    Why not use Eternabond on the seams?


    I got my terminology wrong, I mean the seals, not the seams of the roof.
  • It's okay to leave the old caulk as long as it is solid and intact. I remove any loose areas before applying new caulk.

    Clean the area and the old caulk before applying the new caulk.

    Why not use Eternabond on the seams?

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