Your windows and doors serve several purposes. One of their main jobs is to keep the elements at bay. The last thing anyone wants is a leaky window or door. Not only will it create quite a mess, but it can even affect the structural integrity of that wall. Here are some essential tips to help you test your windows for leaks and how to solve the problem.
How to test your windows
Sometimes you may simply notice water inside your window the next time it rains. If there is no rain, however, you might not notice a problem right away. You should always be on the lookout for signs of damage around the window, including the windowsill. Peeling paint is another common sign of water leaks. Inspect the entire window frame and surrounding wall for signs of water damage. You may even notice a smell, like mold. The longer a leak is left unresolved, it will not be long before mold develops and spreads.
How serious is the problem?
Even if you only see a few drops of water, it’s important to remember that air can also flow through this space. This means that your home will also be less energy efficient and you will notice higher energy bills. Not only will your heating system need to work harder in the winter, but your air conditioner will also be under added pressure in the summer. Leaking windows will also negatively affect the value of your property. Homes with drywall experience major damage due to water leaks and this can affect the stability of that wall.
Important questions to ask
If you believe that one or more of your windows has a leak, you should ask yourself these important questions:
- Does the window leak only during heavy rain periods?
- Is the leak getting progressively worse?
- Does the window always leak when it rains or only when the rain falls at a certain angle?
- When did the window start leaking?
- Could anything have triggered the leak (such as heavy ice or damage to the window)?
By answering these questions, you will be able to determine just how urgent the problem is. If your windows are old, it’s usually best to have them replaced. If they are just a few years old, you should look into the warranty and contact the manufacturer. If you suspect that some sort of damage has occurred, you should call a window expert and have them assess the window damage. They can then recommend whether the window needs to be replaced or retrofitted. Remember, experts in the windows and doors industry are trained and experienced in identifying these types of problems and offering the best solutions.
(Syndicated press content)
