As well as providing the benefit of illumination, particularly in darker parts of the area around the exterior of your property outdoor lighting can really add a touch of class and sophistication.
That is, when it works without any issues.
One of the main issues you are likely to encounter with outdoor lighting, even those that to an extent have suitable waterproofing that means they can be used on the exterior, is water damage.
It may be that the lighting you have chosen has parts that could easily become filled with water if there is too much of a downpour.
However, in the following post, we are going to look at one way you can seal your outdoor light to improve its waterproofing.
Table of Contents
What You Need
- Water-resistant silicone caulk
- Damp cloth
- Drop cloth or old blanket
- Step ladder (If dealing with a light that’s high up)
- Paper towels (for excess and stray blobs of caulk)
- Utility knife (to help set the caulk into place)
- Bowl of water
How To Waterproof Outdoor Lights
1. Clean
Similarly, to paint and other coatings, caulk works best when you apply it to a clean surface. So, make sure you use a damp cloth to wipe around the outdoor light, particularly focusing on the places you are likely to apply the caulk.
2. Prepare Everything
Get setup so you have everything to hand before you start caulking the light. Spread out that drop cloth or old blanket to catch any spillages and make use of the step ladder if the light can’t be easily reached or you need to stretch.
Paper towels are great for removing those unsightly and unprofessional-looking caulk blobs, so keep a pile nearby and have your utility knife ready to help steer any caulk that goes off course back to the right place.
For the finishing touches, you will need the bowl of water to dip your fingers into.
3. Start Caulking
After you’ve opened the caulk and fitted it to an appropriate applicator gun, you are ready to start. Think carefully before you start and know exactly where you are going to caulk. Don’t rush the application process.
Start working around any slight gaps where the light and the mounting board or backplate meet, as this is an area where water could seep in and cause problems.
Try applying the caulk in one continuous and steady flowing stream. If it ever runs off-course a little, just use the utility knife to place it in the right position again.
Always work from top to bottom.
4. Smoothing Out
Once the caulk is all in place, you need to take your fingers, and dip at least one into the bowl of water. You then need to use your finger to gently press down on the caulk and work it in nice and smoothly all around the light where you’ve applied it.
This helps to ensure there are no gaps and the caulk dries with a watertight seal. It also helps give it a nice and appealing finished look.
5. Clean Up
Clean any of the spilled caulk up and follow any care instructions outlined on the caulk tube and you’re done.
It’s as simple as that!
