As a homeowner, avoiding leaking windows should be a top priority. This tends to happen in older homes, but when windows are improperly installed, they can leak in a new home too.
Got Rot specializes in providing top-quality window repair services for homeowners with window leaks. This blog post provides valuable insights and tips on avoiding the common mistakes of window leaks.
Telltale Signs of a Leaking Window Frame
A leaky window is easy to spot, these are the warning signs:
Water Is Dripping Around Your Window
It’s an obvious sign of trouble when you have water dripping in the panes or near the window frame. When your window is shut tightly and water is coming in, this indicates a gap is allowing the water into your home.
Windows That Fog Up
Window condensation isn’t always an indication of a water leak, though it may indicate that a seal has broken when you spot it between the panes of glass.
Mold Growth
Mold grows in damp areas, so you must check your windows for any obvious signs of black spots on the window frames and window sills. You should act quickly if you notice mold or mildew growth around the window as it can spread into your walls, leading to respiratory problems and poor indoor air quality.
Musty Odor
Damp wood will have a musty, unpleasant smell. This could happen anywhere in your home, though if it is coming from the windows, it could be from water leaking into your home, which can lead to rotting wood.
Water Stains and Discolorations on the Window Frames
The wood framing on your windows can be discolored from water leaks. It may look yellow, then turn brown or copper if you ignore the issue.
Floor Damage
When leaks from your windows are not repaired, they can damage the window, the window sill, walls, and floors. You may find that your hardwood warps, the linoleum peels, the tiles come loose, and the carpeting becomes moldy.
Peeling Paint and Caulk
When windows leak and water seeps into the walls, it can cause the paint or wallpaper to peel. Additionally, you may notice the caulk or window sealant on your window peeling away, which allows more moisture and air into your home. Damaged sealant is something every homeowner should check regularly, especially in the rainy season. Windows that are sealed properly don’t leak.
Damaged or Sagging Drywall
Windows that have severe leaks or have been neglected could cause the drywall to become saturated. This leads to sagging from the water intrusion, which will eventually damage your home’s structural integrity.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Dealing with Window Leaks
Too much moisture in your home from window leaks can cause major issues if you don’t do something about it. Wood rot can destroy your home as it spreads through the wooden frames to the surrounding walls.
Not Locating the Source of the Leak
When windows are leaking, you need to find out where the water is coming from. It may be from window flashing, the house wrap, the sill pan, gaps or holes around your exterior window frame, the angle of the fascia board on window overhangs at the top of the window, or improper installation of the windows.
It is always best to correct the problem at the source. When you don’t find where the leak originated, it will continue to cause damage to your home. It may be time to have a professional take a look to see if the cause is due to your house wrap, poor installation, flashing tape, vinyl siding, or another factor to prevent future leaks and clean up the damage.
Ignoring the Issue
No one wants to have problems with their home but ignoring the issues will only allow them to worsen, leading to more leaks from your home’s windows. Take care of the leak promptly or you may have damaged drywall, floorboards, subflooring, and structural supports that can all lead to wood rot and destroy your home’s stability.
Only Using Temporary Solutions
A cheap and temporary fix should only be used until a professional can come to inspect and make full repairs. These fixes can help if there is a huge storm coming before you can get the repairs made. They will need to be completely fixed to ensure the rest of your home isn’t ruined.
Problems Caused by Leaking Windows
If you have a leaking window, it is an issue you should take seriously. Allowing water and moisture to intrude into your home leads to mold, mildew, wood rot, and much more. It also impacts your energy efficiency, leading to higher energy bills.
The biggest problem is that the longer it continues, the more damage you will need to repair. This is why you must inspect your windows regularly. If you spot any of the signs of leakage, you should not delay having it expertly repaired. Once you have the leaks fixed, you will want to take steps to prevent more leaks to keep your home in prime condition.
What You Can Do About Leaking Windows
If you inspect your home yearly and notice a leaking window, you may be able to repair it yourself. Look inside and outside your home to spot the signs of damage such as weeping holes or damaged weather stripping and sealant.
You may need to reapply caulk or sealant to prevent leaks. A thin layer should do the trick, though all old and worn caulk and sealant should be removed first.
If you have old windows, it may simply be time for a window replacement. You can choose glass block windows, storm windows, metal or vinyl frames, or other replacement windows for your home. It will be a great investment that ensures your home will be kept in beautiful condition for years to come.
Benefits of Professional Window Leak Repair
If you have water leaks around the window, it can lead to significant damage. Stop this problem from worsening and contact Got Rot to help you clear up the water intrusion from the source and restore your home to make it like new again.