Do you worry about water leaks in your windows when it rains? It’s bad enough when you have a leaky roof, but your windows can leak water, too. How do you stop windows from leaking water? If you find yourself facing this question, we’ll show you what you can do and the best fix to stop windows from leaking water.
Are Your Windows Leaking Water? Here’s How to Tell
First, let’s talk about how to be sure that your windows are leaking water. Sometimes it looks like your windows are leaking water, but the leak is coming from somewhere else–like your ceiling.
So, how can you be sure that your windows are leaking water?
- Water stains around window frame
- Peeling paint on the wall or interior frame
- Visible mold on or near window, such as the sill
- Damp or musty smell
- Warped or damaged window sealant
- Condensation between double-glazed panes
What Causes Windows to Leak Water?
Your window is leaking water. Now what? Let’s talk about the why. Knowing why your windows leak water can help you learn how to stop the leak.
Windows can leak water for several reasons:
- Poor installation
- Worn-out sealant
- Old wood windows deteriorating
- Your house needs window flashing
When windows are not correctly installed, gaps or spaces pop up between the window frame and the building structure, allowing water to seep through. This is especially true when there’s no window flashing, which protects your home from water damage.
Meanwhile, the sealant used to keep water out can break down due to exposure to the elements, such as sun, wind, and rain, leading to leaks. Older windows may also become less effective at keeping water out as their materials, like wood or caulking, deteriorate.
Another common cause of window leaks is the failure of the window’s drainage system. Windows are designed with weep holes that allow water to escape from the frame and prevent pooling. If these holes clog up with debris, water can back up and enter your home.
How to Stop Windows from Leaking Water
Now, here comes the big question–how do you stop windows from leaking water? Once you determine that your windows are leaking water, it’s time to take action. Here are some ideas to help stop windows from leaking water.
Look for cracks or holes in or around the window
Water can seep inside cracks or holes in the window. Here is how to find them and patch them up:
- Regularly inspect window frames and sashes for cracks or damage.
- Seal any cracks or holes with caulk or sealant immediately.
- Check for gaps between the window frame and the house structure.
- Ensure weep holes are clear of debris to allow proper drainage. Window weep holes drain water from your windows while preventing airflow into your home, and small flaps cover the holes to keep the wind from blowing through them.
- For significant gaps, use expanding foam insulation for a tighter fit.
Check the weatherstripping and caulking
When weatherstripping and caulking fails, it can lead to water leaks. Here is how to address those issues:
- Inspect weatherstripping for wear or damage.
- Replace worn or damaged weatherstripping promptly.
- Check caulking around window for cracks or gaps.
- Re-caulk areas where old caulking has failed.
- Ensure caulking is smooth and fully seals edges.
- Choose high-quality, weather-resistant caulking material. Silicone is best!
Pay attention to old wood windows
Sometimes old windows–wood, especially–will leak water. The truth is that new caulking or weatherstripping is often a band-aid approach. Your old wood windows might be failing if:
- The wood frames are visibly rotting or warped.
- Paint on the window frames is peeling or blistering.
- You can feel drafts coming through the window edges.
- The operation of the window (opening/closing) is compromised.
- Condensation frequently forms inside the glass of double-paned windows.
- There’s a noticeable increase in your heating or cooling bills.
- The window sash or frame has become soft to the touch.
Are Your Windows Leaking Water? Coastal Can Help!
Professionally installed with flashing and equipped with essential weep holes, we can help troubleshoot why your windows are leaking water. Please contact us now to get started!
