Windows leak when it rains? Here’s what to do!
Window leaks happen for a variety of reasons. Windows are our protection against the elements and they can deteriorate over time due to age, extreme temperature changes, humidity, and storms. Whether to replace a window completely or simply make a small repair depends on the type and extent of damage.
Why Does My Window Leak When it Rains?
- The window sealant is damaged: If you see water seeping in from several different sides of a window, the culprit is most likely an old or improperly applied sealant. When this happens, cracks show up in the caulking or it peels away from the window, allowing rain water to slide into and around the window. Fortunately, this is an easy and inexpensive fix. Simply remove the old caulking and have new caulking applied.
- The gas seal between the panes is no longer effective: Double and triple-paned windows rely on glazing putty to keep out moisture and condensation. When the seal warps, the gas seeps out and windows lose their energy efficiency. One big clue that this is happening is the presence of water building up between the window panes during the rainy season. On a dry day, you can try resealing the caulk to secure the glass to the gasket again. Check that the sill below the window points downward to drain water away from the window. Although replacing the window is not necessary, you might want to do it for the sake of energy efficiency and reduced utility bills.
- Your gutters are clogged or damaged: When your gutters are clogged or broken, water that should be going down gutters instead spills over the side of a house. If you see a water stain along the top of a window frame, this could be caused by leaking water from a gutter that has caused damage to the walls of your house. Check to see if there are any stains on the siding outside your home as well for further clues that damaged or overfilled gutters are the culprit. Call a professional to repair or replace your gutters right away and add caulking where necessary to prevent further leaks.
- Your roof is damaged: Similar to clogged gutters, a damaged roof can lead to leaks around the window when it rains. This can lead to serious structural damage to your home if not fixed right away. Consult with a roofing expert to assess for any damage to your roof that might be affecting your wall’s ability to keep out moisture.
Leaks in and around a window can be a sign of a much more serious problem. It’s always best to consult with a trained home repair and window expert to discover the extent of the damage and whether window replacement or repair is necessary. At Premiere Roofing, we can help you with all your window needs and we also repair roofs and gutters, all at an affordable price. Call us today to find out how we can help protect your home from the elements.
