Do You Have Leaking Windows?
Window Leaks are a common problem. Successful window leak repair requires determining the cause of the leak first. The leak could result from a leaking window frame or a problem with how the window is installed into the wall opening. A leak at one window can mean potential problems at other windows since they are often all from the same manufacturer and installed by the same crew.
Window Leaks can seep into your exterior walls for years before being noticed, sometimes resulting in extensive water damage and mold. Below are examples of the most common reasons identified by Putnam Consulting Inc. for window leaks. Let’s delve into the insights we’ve gathered to help you better understand this issue!
Why Do Windows Leak?
Defective Window Installation
If a window is not installed properly, there may be flashing defects and voids between the window frame and the wall, allowing water to leak in. Windows should be sealed to the underlying weather resistive barrier (WRB) (housewrap) before installing stucco or siding.
Failed Weatherstripping
Weatherstripping around the movable panel (sash) can wear out or come loose due to age or damage and allow leakage.
Clogged Drain Holes
Windows often have small drain holes, or weeps, at the bottom of the frame to allow water to escape. If the weeps become clogged with debris, water can back up and leak into your wall.
Broken or Cracked Window Frame
Broken or cracked window frames can allow water to leak into the walls. Cracks and separated joints create entry points for water.
Condensation
Excessive condensation on the interior side of the window frames can lead to water pooling on the windowsill or seeping into the wall cavity.
Glass Seal Failure
Glass Seal Failure occurs when the seal around the panes of glass is damaged, defective, or worn due to age.
Foundation Shifting or Building Settlement
Structural movement like foundation shifting or building settlement can cause stress or damage to nearby window frames and allow leakage.
Extreme Weather
Extreme Weather generates sheeting rain and high wind pressure. The combination can force water into joints and seals that might not otherwise leak
Poor Window Design
Poorly designed window frames can collect and hold water instead of draining freely. Design issues like negatively sloped window frames hold water and are more likely to leak.
Damage by Other Contractors
Damages by other contractors are common on large or complicated job sites. Finishing contractors, like installers of security systems, sometimes drill holes through the windowsill to install sensors instead of through the sides or top of the frame. A hole through the sill of the frame can allow leakage into the wall that can go unnoticed for a long time.
Failed Sealant
Over time, the sealant around the window frame may crack or shrink, allowing water to penetrate behind the exterior finish. In most instances, however, if the window frame is properly sealed to the underlying weather-resistive barrier (WRB), there should be no leakage into the wall, even if there is no exterior sealant at all. Of course, you should still replace any failed sealant.
ASTM/AAMA
We are fully equipped and professionally trained to perform ASTM and AAMA testing.