I posted previously in regards to an exterior window trim issue I discovered, where the previous home owner did not put any waterproofing around the window.
I have since waterproofed around the windows using foam and silicone. However, the silicone is exposed and I would like to cover it with trim again (now that it is properly? sealed).
Is there anything I should keep in mind prior to putting on trim again? I was just going to brad nail it on, and maybe silicone between the trim and window.
— UPDATE —
So I decided to just not use trim. I stuffed backing rod in the gaps around the window, and siliconed the heck out of everything. These windows are now completely water tight. I am now going to put the highest quality paintable caulk I can find on the silicone then paint. As mentioned, the trim really only makes the problem worse by catching water and such. Thanks everyone for all the helpful comments and critiques!
Best Answer
The window or windows appear to be replacement windows. The installer should have never installed a piece at the bottom,and cut the side trim to fit to the sill. The bottom sill is most likely sloped to allow water to drain off and placing the quarter round, or any trim would create a dam to allow the water to back up to the inside of the house.
The trim on the outside should be removed the rest of the way, seal the joint between the window and jamb with caulk and backer rod if needed and install new trim fully back primed, cut ends too. Set the new trim in place with galvanized nails, 1 1/2" will do, while the caulk is still wet so it "beds in" using a high grade water based caulk to make the oozy mess easier to clean up with a sponge and a 5 gallon bucket of water.
The bottom should be caulked only, wiped in flush and smooth with the same damp sponge that cleans the excess caulk, squeezing it out really hard to keep the sponge drip free.
Silicone although it has its uses, such as places that do not need painting, to me is highly rated. Many new caulks are out there that perform very well and can be painted over. Perhaps if the new caulk will stick to the silicone, it can be "colored in" with the same white caulk that is used around the perimeter trim.