How to handle storms and leaky windows

Springtime brings storms and rain, which means it’s common to discover leaky windows.

So, what do you do if you find water pooled around windows after a storm? Here are a few questions to ask to help pinpoint the cause.

• Does the window leak every time it rains?
• If not, does it only leak when rain blows from a certain direction?
• Did you have any recent repair work to the gutters, siding, or roof?

Next, inspect areas around the window where the glass meets the frame and where the frame meets the wall. Check both the interior and exterior of the window.

If the leaking area is where the window meets the wall, be sure to look at the caulking around the window. Caulking dries out and become brittle over time, so look for gaps or damage in the caulking.

An easy fix is to remove the old caulking and apply new caulk to the area. However, be sure to check for damage around the wall first. Any soft or wet areas need to be properly dried and repaired before you caulk.

If you see water damage where the window frame meets the glass, the most common culprit is the rubber stripping. Repairing it can be as simple as replacing the rubber stripping.

Most window leaks do not necessarily mean the window needs to be replaced. However, if there is extensive water damage around the window frame, the window may need to be removed and possibly replaced to fix the damage.

If you cannot pinpoint what is causing the window to leak, other issues involving siding, guttering, or the roof may need to be considered. It’s important to consult with a professional who can identify the source of the leak and develop a plan to remedy the situation.