Sometimes a dose of rain can do us a world of good. But, when you have leaking windows during heavy rain, you will be less than enthused. In this blog, we will go over why your windows are leaking, help you determine where exactly the leak is coming from, and how to fix the problem. Read on to find a solution for your leaky windows.
Troubleshooting Window Leaks
Reasons for Leaking Windows
Asking why you have leaking windows during heavy rainfall is a good place to start when you’re in search of a permanent solution. These heavy rain spells show that there is a problem, but the root cause is usually caused by the window system itself or the surrounding structures of the home.
No Overhangs
Overhangs help direct water to fall away from the home during heavy rain. Homes that don’t have overhangs, or where overhangs aren’t installed properly, are more likely to have problems like leaky windows. As the rain continues to pour, its moisture can seep into the home. If there is a lot of water, the flashing and sealing of the window may not always be able to keep it all out. This creates leaky windows and all the problems that follow with a water leak in the home.
Faulty Fascia Board
The fascia board is right below the roof line. It is there to channel water away from the home. If this board is ever damaged or rotting, water will run behind it and down the wall. If this happens long enough, water will start seeping into the home through the window opening. This case is a perfect example of why finding the root cause is important before trying to fix the issue of a leaky window.
Improperly Installed Windows
Windows must be leveled, sealed, and integrated into the home’s weather barrier system when being installed. If these measures are not adequately in place, rainwater will get into the house. This can happen even if you pay to have the expensive windows installed in your home. This is why quality window installation is essential for keeping water out of your home during heavy rain.
Inadequate Window Flashing
Window flashing is a protective barrier that has the main job of pushing water away from the window’s opening. If the flashing is missing, damaged, or installed incorrectly, you will have leaking windows during heavy rain storms.
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Little to No Window Maintenance
As with anything around the house, maintenance is key to avoiding problems like leaky windows. When it comes to window maintenance, there are several tasks that help keep it weather-proof such as replacing weatherstripping, cleaning clogged weep holes, or re-applying caulking. When these things are neglected, those heavy rain spells will bring about many leaks around your windows.
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Where is the Leak Coming From?
When you find that you have a leaking window, it is important to take action as soon as possible. The thing is that the leak may not even be the window’s fault, but with the water coming through the window’s opening, it would be easy to make that conclusion. Getting down to the root of the problem right away can save you a lot of money off the bat.
Common Areas for Window Leaks & What They Mean
- Water at the top of the window pane: Usually caused by flashing issues or water coming down from the roof or fascia.
- Moisture on the sides of the window: Caused by failing caulking or gaps between the frame and siding.
- Water pooling on the inside sill: Caused by clogged weep holes or condensation problems.
- Damp drywall or stains below the window: Water entering behind the wall and working its way down.
- Leaks that come only during heavy rain and strong wind: Usually a sign of window installation defects.
Clearly, figuring out the source of the water leak coming through the window is very important. Take your time to look at these common areas and if you can’t pinpoint the source, reach out to a trusted window professional through Koalaty’s network by clicking the button below.
Solutions for Leaking Windows During Heavy Rainfall
There are many ways to solve a leaking window and usually the solution depends on the severity. Sometimes it is a straightforward, minimal fix like applying caulking. Other times, you just need to scrap the whole window and replace it with a better one.
We always recommend trying some simpler approaches before going the expensive route:
- Inspect the caulking and replace it around the window frame
- Clear blocked weep holes to see if that will help trapped water to drain properly
- Replace the weatherstripping to improve the seal against wind-driven rain
- Check nearby structures like the siding, trim, and fascia around the leaking window for damage that could cause water to enter through the window.
- Check the gutters and downspouts and make sure they are clean.
When to Call a Professional Window Contractor
If any of these steps help, then all you have to do is just keep up the maintenance to avoid future problems. However, if nothing you do helps the situation, you will need to call a professional for an inspection. Targeted repair from a window contractor usually helps, and if not, they will recommend the most cost-effective replacements.
Regardless of the root cause, you must address the leaks in your home quickly to prevent costly repairs from wood rot, mold growth, and long-term structural issues.
Get Help With Those Window Leaks Before the Next Storm!
Window leaks during heavy rain aren’t just annoying. They are warning signs that water is coming into your home. If you are not sure what you should do to fix the problem and have exhausted all options, it is time to work with a professional who can help.
Koalaty Windows connects you with licensed, local window contractors that can help evaluate a leaking window and recommend the best solution for your home. Requesting quotes from the pros will allow you to compare your options, get an idea of potential costs, and take the next step towards preventing further water damage.