Should I hire a professional to fix the missing caulk and rotting wood, or can I handle it myself?
Asked by Dennis Clark 
2 months ago
Last Updated: October 29, 2024
Should I get a professional to check this out, or can I try fixing it myself? We moved in a couple of years ago and just realized now that this area was only caulked. I saw yesterday that the caulk is now missing in that spot, and the wood is starting to rot.
If the wood is rotten, you should consider replacing it. If it’s only surface rot that can be removed with light sanding, go ahead and do that. After that, recaulk and repaint. Whether or not to call a professional is your call.
Try poking it with a knife to determine the depth and level of decay
Take off the storm door and swap out the brick mold
Hey, it seems like it has been patched up before, so I would suggest checking where the water might be entering from, fixing that first, THEN repairing the brickmold
Remove storm door and add new trim with a 45-degree cut
Switch to PVC
If you’re near a Menards, they sell a pre-cut PVC brick mold kit. Just measure your door to confirm they fit
If you’re wondering whether it’s DIY-friendly, chances are it’ll test your patience. You might need to purchase a tool or two, but overall, it’s a straightforward task. The main challenge will be removing the screws from the storm door frame without stripping them. I recommend using a traditional screwdriver to loosen them up at least. Once the storm door is off, remove the brick mold, replace it, caulk, putty, paint, and you’re good to go.
In my area, it’s hard to find a handyman willing to tackle such a small job. And if you do find one, it’ll cost a pretty penny. You could give it a shot. It’ll require some time and tools, but it’s worth it if you’re looking to pick up some DIY skills.
If you notice a lot of damaged wood, chances are there is even more hidden damage. In my opinion, you’ll need to take the door off and replace a significant amount of wood. If you’re somewhat handy or willing to learn, this is doable. In the long run, it’s essential to prevent water from seeping into the wood. Adding horizontal flashing and caulk between the siding and new wood should help.