Leaking Windows When It Rains. Water seeping in at many different spots on your window replacement Portland? It’s probably time to re-seal it. When the sealant starts peeling, water can slide right inside and damage or even rot some of your framing. Sometimes, the raindrops will hit a window with such force that they’ll break through and cause leaks to appear on its surface. The water can then seep into other places in your home or office by going around doorframes and window sills – leaving you wetter than before.

Here is what you need to know about common causes of window leaks, what to watch for, and who to call for repairs.

What Causes Leaks?

Most often window leaks during rain are the result of bad replacement window installation or improper construction.

• Poor design and poor installation of flashings that protect the window from moisture coming into contact with the glass pane from below and seeping into cracks in between bricks, cinderblocks, clapboard siding, etc. 
• Cracks that allow water to trickle in around frame edges where top edge level is above casing lower edge.
• Leaks due to improper flashing.

It could also be a lack of overhangs or improperly angled fascia that drain water and protect against wind-driven rain. Or leaks could be the result of poor maintenance or missing caulking. It can also come from old windows after years of surviving various weather conditions. If left too long, the leak can result in aesthetic and structural damage.

How to Stop a Window from Leaking?

The solution depends on the location of the leak. If it is at a window sill or bottom, it is best to caulk over all edges in this area with silicone and ensure that the sealant doesn’t create any messes on your windows. If there are gaps between the window frame and where the sealant starts, you can use weather stripping to fill these spaces.

One of the better ways to reduce leaks in a window is by using rain chains which collect water coming off an eave or roof edge and channel it out of an opening below. This way you don’t have a window doing spent time collecting spilled water which could lead to more damage than just drip drops here and there.

There are a few things that could be contributing to your window leaking.

1. First, make sure the window is caulked well around the frame as this can prevent leaks.
2. Next, check to see if there are any gaps between the framing and window glass or siding of your house (there might also be gaps between trim and paneling).
3. Third, inspect the flashing for indications of dirt, rust or other deterioration. Finally, double-check all sealant joints in stone and brick walls surrounding your window.

What to Look Out For

Window leaks can manifest in a number of ways. Water is the most obvious. If you see visible moisture on the window or around it, you likely have a leak. You might also notice rotting wood or peeling paint on the sill or near a window. Frames will become damaged, glazing seals can break and result in condensation, or the full unit can get out of square. This leaves more gaps for water to leak in.

FAQ about Water Leaks

The good news is that home repair experts can get to the bottom of the leak, make repairs, and solve the problem. If you suspect a window leak, consider these questions so you can assist a replacement window professional in diagnosing the issue:

• How long has the window been leaking or when was the first time you noticed window leaks?
• Has it worsened over time or remained consistent?
• Does the window leak any time it rains, or only during heavy rain?
• Does it occur more often when the rain is driven in a specific direction?
• Have you done anything to stop the leak? If so, what was it and did it help?

You will also want to find out when your home was constructed and who built your home or installed the windows. This information will not only help you figure out which window parts and materials you need, but more importantly, can help you find out if leak repair is covered by warranty.

Water on Window Sill When it Rains FAQs

How do I stop water pooling on my window sill?

Tips for avoiding or resolving water pooling on the window sill.

1) You can partition off the window with dividers to keep much of the ambient moisture out, and thereby then reduce chances that water is going to pool from condensation buildup on the windowsill. This may not work so well in climate zones where windows are never used because it’s too cold, but otherwise it should help.

2) Eliminate any landscape topiaries that might allow leaves and thorns to drip rainwater onto your window outside.

3) Check all gutters/downspouts for debris blocking them and causing leaks when they overflow during intense wet storms–these can cause major problems if they are clogged up with leaves.

How do you seal a window sill?

Sealant and caulking are the most common sealing products used for window sills. Window sill sealant comes in a number of different sizes to suit various situations- it comes in a tube or can that needs to be squeezed out, spread onto and then pressed into place. They say that using window sill sealant is easy; you just have to follow the instructions on the label when deciding which size product you need for your particular project.

Window sill caulk typically comes in tubes or cans as well, but it’s usually applied with an applicator (sometimes called an “extension” or a “scoop”) so one only has to apply pressure for enough time before smoothing off any excess on the adjoining wall.

How do you fill cracks around a window sill?

Window sill cracks are normally a result of movement in the house, particularly if it’s an older house that might not have been built as solidly as newer houses. There are several ways to fill cracks around a window sill. One option is to use an epoxy resin sealant, but that adds weight and thickness. Another option is to use caulking materials, which is great for patching chips, holes and corrosion from metal or repairing lead paint damage on windowsills. The drawback with this stuff is that it can warp the wood over time as becomes brittle or propped-up by insulation in the space between window frame and sill.

Other steps to fill window sill cracks:

Prepare the area for filling with primer and paint

1. Cut backer board or veneer
2. Fit the backer board or veneer snugly into place
3. Fill any gaps between the edges of backer board and window sill with caulk
4. After everything dries, top coat with paint

Cracks around a window sills are usually caused by movement within your home.

Don’t Wait! Call a Professional About Window Leaks

Windows are one of the most multifaceted components of your home. They provide ventilation, natural light, and protect your home against the elements. They also reduce noise pollution, insulate your home, and have significant impact on the style and comfort of your home. So when you have a problem with your home window, it can impact your life in many different ways. To repair or prevent window leaks, contact EnergyGuard Windows and Doors.