Exterior Window Stops - Prime First, Then Caulk?

Aug 23, 2007 1 Replies

As part of a window replacement project, I'm going to be removing my aluminum storms. I expect that this will expose unpainted window stops.



Should I prime the exterior stops before installing the windows and caulking or is OK to wait until the caulk dries and then prime/paint? I'm wondering if the bare wood will draw too much moisture out of the caulk for it to cure properly.



Thanks!



Prime first. It's a holdover from the days of glazing compound, but it's still good practice. The primer soaks into the wood a bit and solidifies the fibers. Many painters swear by oil paint in that application. Again, probably a holdover from oil-based glazing compounds and first generation latex paints.

R

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