Discovering water seeping through your windows can be distressing, considering the potential damage to your floor and belongings. It’s a question many homeowners find themselves asking: “Why are my windows leaking?” Thankfully, you’re not alone in this, and there are tried-and-true methods to address and even prevent such leaks.
Find the leak
- Find the leak
- Protect your belongings
- Inspect the exterior
- Replace caulk
- Utilize weatherstripping
- Consult a professional
- Is it Condensation?
- Preventative measures
It’s unfortunately common for windows to leak in our unpredictable climates. By following these steps, you’ll find the answer to “Why are my windows leaking?” and discover solutions to address and prevent future leaks.
1.) Find the Source of the Window Leak
Finding out why you have leaking windows could be as easy as simply observing the window frame during rainy weather and spotting a crack, or it could mean a frustratingly lengthy investigation that entails disassembling the window.
If there is no obvious crack in the window frame, removing the sash, the moveable part of the frame that holds the glass planes, may help check the wood’s health. Move a screwdriver across the area with light pressure to determine if the wood is soft. If so, that could mean the leak is due to decayed wood.
However, the sash may require tightening if the wood is healthy. A quick tightening of screws should remedy the situation.
2.) Protect Your belongings
If your windows leak water despite your best efforts, removing any vulnerable items from the area is the next step. Lay a tarp to protect the flooring and move electronics to another room.
It may feel like a hassle, but it’s better to be safe than injured and out of thousands of dollars.
3.) Inspect the Leaking Window’s Exterior
Remember to examine the outside of the window to see if there is deteriorated caulk, cracks, or wood warping. These factors could be contributing to leaking windows.
4.) Replace Old Caulk
Regarding leaking windows, caulking around your window frame is pivotal in maintaining their health.
What is caulking, and why is it so important?
Caulk is a silicone product that seals air leaks in gaps, joints, and cracks. It’s utilized on materials like wood or metal that remain stationary. A window frame’s exterior and interior should be adequately caulked and inspected annually.
Most caulking will require replacement every 5-10 years, depending on the compound used.
5.) Weatherstrip
Weatherstripping, a critical step in how to fix leaking windows, and caulking serve similar purposes but differ in application. Weatherstripping addresses the moving structures of a window, like a sash, ensuring an airtight seal that prevents moisture ingress.
Forms of weatherstripping
- Plain/Reinforced Felt
- Metal
- V shape
- Vinyl gasket
- Tubular rubber
- Reinforced foam
Depending on who you ask, certain forms of weatherstripping are better than others. Choosing the best option for you depends on where you’re placing it on the frame and the style and material of the window frame.
Reinforced foam works best for sealing corners and odd angles, while vinyl gaskets and tubular rubber seals are fantastic for flatter surfaces.
6.) Is it Condensation?
Water can collect on the window glass, and for there to be no leak. If there is also fog on the glass and it’s muggy outdoors but cool inside, then it’s most likely Condensation causing the water.
7.) Consult a Professional
If you’ve tried everything and the leaking window prevails, it may be time to throw in the towel and consult a professional. They know how to fix leaking windows, and If the wood is too decayed or the frame is damaged, a total replacement is in order.
8.) Preventative Measures
Window maintenance is key in preventing leaks. At least twice a year, it’s beneficial to check existing caulk and clean your windows thoroughly to ensure there are no cracks.
The Candle Test
You can employ the candle test to ensure no leaks in your window. Please light a candle and hold it safely from the window while tracing along the frame. This will expose any air leaking through and the exact location. Sometimes, the most straightforward tools do the trick.
We’ve Got You Covered
Kryger Glass is proud to assist you with your glass repair and replacement needs. As experts in the field for over seven decades, our glass technicians are here to answer all your questions. We specialize in residential, commercial, vehicle, and fleet glass.
Give us a call and get a quote today!