Why are My Windows Leaking?

You would think getting replacement windows in Seattle, WA would spare you from leaks. While in most cases this is true, it isn’t always the case. Window leaks can happen for a number of reasons. And it is important to find the main source of the leak and identify the root cause if you hope to resolve the problem quickly. Here are a few of the most common causes of window leaks:

Lack of Overhangs

Soffits, fascia, and overhangs are meant to help drain water away from the sides of the house. Without them, rain running off the roof and down the walls will have direct contact with the windows. This constant drainage often leads to window leaks because so much water is running down the windows.

Installation Issues

Another leading cause of window leaks is improper installation. Many homeowners think they can save money by installing windows themselves. What they often forget is window installation is meticulous work. One small mistake could leave them not only with damaged windows but also expensive home repairs.

Windows Aren’t Level

Part of window installation includes making sure the window is plumb and level. That way, the internal drainage system can work to force water out the weep holes and away from the frame. But as homes settle, windows tend to shift slightly and may no longer be level. This causes water to collect inside the frame and seep into the walls. An easy way to test this is to use a level to find out if the window has fallen out of the square.

Damaged Sealant

With time, use, and exposure to the elements the caulking and sealant on windows will wear out and break down. Gaps will start small but will widen, especially with freezing and thawing. Homeowners should inspect the caulk on their windows at least once a year and replace it if it starts to look worn or damaged.

Humidity and Condensation

Perhaps the moisture is actually just humidity and condensation forming on the window. Condensation steps from a combination of circumstances that condenses the moisture from the air and leaves it on cool surfaces—like windows. Wipe up the water and see if the surface dries or continues to collect water.

Defective Products

This is perhaps the most frustrating cause of window leaks. But in some cases, the product is simply defective. It is either damaged during manufacturing or transit. And it could lead to immediate leaks, or it could mean new windows start to leak just a couple of years down the road. These flaws are not common but do happen on occasion.

A leaking window needs to be taken seriously. If it continues to go unnoticed or is not addressed right away, it can cause serious damage to the home. The best solution for leaks is replacement windows in Seattle, WA. For more help finding the right products for your home at a reasonable price contact the experts at Signature Window & Door Replacement.