Handling rainwater that enters through windows
Rachael Eslao • May 13, 2022
Handling rainwater that enters through windows- Naples, FL
The last thing you want is rainwater entering your home when it's raining outside. This common issue can arise in any house when water seeps into the windows and doors, which can occur due to fractured windowpanes, inadequate weatherstripping, and a variety of other issues.
Window leaks must be detected and treated as soon as feasible. This is because they frequently promote rot and mold growth, which can spread to other areas of your home and constitute a health concern if not addressed promptly. Responding to an active window leak could happen at any time of day or night. This post was created to help you understand the most common causes of window leaks, what they mean, and what you should do if you see one in your home.
What Causes Window Leaks
Many customers are unaware that their window leaks could be caused by something other than bad weather. Rainstorms that cause window leaks are frequently the result of incorrect replacement window installation or poor construction. The top five causes of leaking windows are as follows:
- Broken Window Seal- Window seals may deteriorate over time. While broken caulking and worn-out or flattened weatherstripping are the most common causes of this deterioration, cracked caulking or failing weatherstripping can also cause water leaks and heat loss. Rainwater can enter your home through damaged seals and cause damage.
- Poor Design- Specialty-shaped windows, bay and bow windows, and soaring windows are just a few examples of window types. Each of these categories has distinct advantages and disadvantages in terms of beauty and utility. However, suitable installation is essential to avoid water intrusion for these types of windows to function correctly. Unfortunately, proper installation is often easier said than done, leaving many homes with specialty windows that leak during rainstorms.
- Poor Installation of Flashings- Leaks near the top of your window frame could be caused by improperly installed flashings. The material flashing links the outside wall to the top of a window or door aperture. Its purpose is to keep water from entering the wall and inflicting damage. Water may seep through any cracks in the flashing surface and produce a leak. To circumvent this problem, use stretchable flashing as a single continuous piece as opposed to patches, which will result in weak spots. The use of the correct material provides excellent water protection and reduces the risk of leaks.
- Worn Glass Seal- Condensation between glass panes is common in multi-glazed and double-glazed windows, and it indicates that the seal on the glass unit has failed. Water can gather between the glazing panes and form puddles on the sill as a result of broken seals, increasing the chance of precipitation leaks. The easiest solution to prevent such leaks is to replace the glass modules or the entire windows.
What Should You Do If Your Home Has a Window Leak?
Window leaks are inconvenient, but they don't have to be permanent. Fortunately, there are a variety of simple water mitigation measures available to assist you in stopping active rain leaks and preventing future breaches.
- Weatherstrips- Weatherstripping is a low-cost, quick, and easy way to seal water leaks and stop drafts. Unlike caulk, which takes 24 hours to dry, self-adhesive strips can be applied and ready in minutes. Weatherstrips are perfect for use on interiors because they do not interfere with the view through the window.
- Replace caulk- Inadequate or decaying caulk is a common cause of leaking windows. To repair leaks at windowsills or bottoms, apply a silicone sealant to caulk all the edges in the area, then cover any remaining gaps with weather stripping material. If any of the current caulk is damaged, use a putty knife or utility knife to remove it and replace it with new caulk.
- Foam sealants- For increased control and convenience, foam sealants are applied with a foam cannon. Because they expand after application, foam sealants are ideal for sealing large apertures or gaps in window frames or jambs. Any excess foam can be removed with a knife or peeler once it has completely dried.
- Window snakes- To stop a window from leaking, use a snake. Window snakes are long tubes that are filled with an absorbent or insulating material that can be used to sweep up excess water at the bottom of a leaking window. Simply place your window snake where water is leaking in or on your windowsill, and the moisture will be absorbed by the substance inside.
- Rain chains- Investing in rain chains is another good way to prevent future water leaks. Rain chains collect and guide rainfall from your home's roof and eaves away from the foundation. Rain chains, in addition to being great water mitigation strategies, are available in several styles and are ideal for beautifying your outside.
In regions where heavy rain falls regularly, window leaks are usually unavoidable. After you've stopped the leak, it's a good idea to get the help of a water damage restoration professional to handle the rest. Restoration 1 of South West Florida's crew will be able to test for hidden indicators of water damage and install preventative devices to prevent similar leaks from occurring in the future.
As the busy winter months wind down, many seasonal residents leave their Southwest Florida homes behind for the summer. With the Fort Myers off-season, however, comes intense heat, high humidity, and frequent storms — conditions that make vacant homes particularly vulnerable to water damage and mold growth. When no one's around to spot early warning signs, small issues can escalate quickly. That's why preparing vacation homes for the Fort Myers off-season is crucial for preventing water and mold issues. Why Your Vacant Fort Myers Home Is a Target for Mold and Water Damage Florida's climate creates the perfect environment for mold, especially during the humid off-peak season. When a vacation home sits empty, everyday systems that usually get attention, or simply benefit from regular use, go unnoticed. In an occupied home, you'd quickly spot a small puddle under the sink, notice a musty smell, or hear a dripping sound. In a vacant home, these things can go undetected for weeks or even months. Since no one is present to catch warning signs early, use systems regularly, and maintain regular air circulation, small issues have more time to spread. High humidity accelerates mold growth, and a lack of airflow allows moisture to linger. Taking steps to prevent mold in your vacant Florida home is the best defense against costly repairs and insurance headaches. Your Pre-Departure Checklist for a Mold-Free Off-Season While winterizing Florida vacation homes is a key part of snowbird home preparation in Fort Myers, the summer off-season requires a different approach. Off-peak Florida seasonal home preparation significantly reduces the risk of moisture intrusion, system failures, and mold growth. Before locking up and heading north, conduct a thorough walk-through of your property to help safeguard it inside and out. Interior Preparations for a Healthy Home Inside the home, focus on controlling humidity, eliminating potential water risks , and reducing conditions that promote mold growth: HVAC and humidity control: Avoid turning the AC completely off. Set your thermostat to around 78-80° Fahrenheit with humidity control at 50%-55%. Have your HVAC system serviced, and make sure condensate lines are clear to prevent dripping or backups. Plumbing and water sources: Shut off the main water supply to prevent leaks from burst pipes or failed toilets. As an extra precaution, consider draining the water lines. Appliance care: Empty, turn off, unplug, clean, and prop open refrigerators. Run a cleaning cycle on dishwashers and washing machines, and leave their doors open — keeping appliances dry discourages mold and mildew. Exterior and Structural Safeguards Exterior vacation home maintenance in Fort Myers helps defend against water intrusion caused by storm damage: Roof and gutter inspection: Repair loose shingles, clean gutters, and confirm that downspouts move water away from the home. Windows and doors: Seal gaps, replace failing weather stripping, and verify that all openings are watertight. Landscaping: Trim trees and shrubs away from the house to prevent moisture buildup and minimize the risk of storm damage. Protect Your Home All Off-Season With Professional Support By taking these preventive measures, you can enjoy your time away, knowing your home will remain dry and secure throughout the off-season. If you suspect hidden moisture, notice musty odors, or want a thorough inspection before you leave, expert help can give you even more reassurance. Restoration 1 of Southwest Florida specializes in water damage restoration and mold remediation tailored to Florida's climate. Our trained technicians provide inspection, repairs, and mold removal to help protect your home year-round. Contact us today to schedule your inspection or service.
How to Prevent Mold in Florida Homes: A Homeowner's Guide
If you’ve experienced water damage, don’t ignore the warning signs. Contact Restoration 1 of Southwest Florida today for a thorough inspection and professional restoration services. Protect your home, health, and investment by taking action now.
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