What is the best way to seal around windows?
I took off the trim around a sliding door during the summer in search of a pesky cricket, I found the cricket but I also found big gaps between window and frame work, it looks like there might be caulking around windows and door on the outside. Now I'm wondering if there is any insulation around any of the windows and doors that were all installed about ten years ago. My question is should I stuff the gaps with rockwool and seal it with tape on the inside? Any suggestions will help.
A good place to start is our page about How to Install Windows & Doors Correctly that includes a DIY window installation video, have a look there. But what you are considering is exactly what we have done and what we recommend, so maybe you'be already seen it.
Mineral wool insulation like Rockwool, formerly known as Roxul is our batt insulation of choice due partly to it’s composition of being largely recycled, but also that it handles exposure to moisture well. I would suggest you pull out any thing that is currently in there, Crickets etc :).
Then install the mineral wool but try not to jam it too tight, and then seal it with tape. You can use Caulking, but we have always had much better luck with tape.
To get an idea of the different types of caulk and silicone sealants and which are best, see here !
As for the other windows, it may be worth pulling off some trim for a look, and you will of course be an expert after you get that first one done!