Ongoing Issues Could Require Window Replacement. Keep Reading to Learn When!

During periods of heavy rain in the Kansas City area, you may have made an unfortunate discovery: your windows are leaking, and now you’re at risk of interior water damage.

Initially, you can take some DIY steps to prevent further leaks or to diagnose the source of the leak. At a certain point, however, you may need the help of a window replacement company to solve your problem in a radical, but worthwhile way: new windows.

The Risks of Leaky Windows

Leaky windows are more than an inconvenience; they can be downright dangerous.

Not only do window leaks mean water is entering your home and getting your furnishings and decor wet, but water could be leaking where you can’t immediately see it: inside your walls, between your siding and drywall.

These clandestine leaks may not be obvious until it’s too late, and your house has developed a major mold problem. Being on the lookout for signs of leaking windows can help prevent major interior damage and health risks.

Signs of Leaking Windows

You may have a window issue if you notice:

  • Wood rot around windows, on the interior, exterior, or both. Even low amounts of moisture can cause wood rot.
  • Wet drywall or plaster around your windows.
  • Puddles on the floor in front of your windows.
  • Cloudy window glass. No, your windows aren’t dirty. Your thermal window’s seal has broken, and you’re on the path to potential future failures.
  • Your house feels drafty, especially around your windows. If air can get in, so can moisture.
  • Mildew or mold on the inside of your window frame.
  • Cracking or bubbling paint on your interior window frame or sill.

Make Repairs Like a Pro Window Installer

Depending on what caused your window leak, you can stop it in its tracks following these simple DIY methods. These repairs cost little money out of pocket and don’t require expensive specialized tools.

If you can’t identify the source of the leak, or if these basic steps don’t work, you know that it’s time to call a window company.

Caulk

Seal your window frame’s joints using high quality caulk. Caulk creates a water-impervious barrier that prevents water from entering your home.

Caulk should be applied to the exterior of your house first. You can then add interior caulking if needed. If you only caulk the interior, water can still enter your home.

Weatherstripping

Block drafts and light moisture by applying self-adhesive weatherstripping tape along the seams of the window frame and pane. Weatherstripping usually comes in a roll, and you cut pieces to size as needed.

Weatherstripping is invisible when your windows are closed, so they won’t affect your home’s curb appeal or interior decor.

Spray Foam Insulation

For large hollow spaces or gaps in your window frame or jambs, a spray foam insulation can be helpful. This material comes in a spray canister – like hairspray.

The foam expands and fills gaps when you spray it using the directional nozzle provided. When the foam dries, you can use a utility knife to trim down excess materials.

Don’t DIY These Repairs; Call a Window Company Instead

We don’t doubt your abilities, but these kinds of repairs require more specialized knowledge and tools, making them better suited for professional intervention.

Reglazing Fogged Windows

If your windows have developed the telltale fog of a seal leak, you may be tempted to try your hand at reglazing. Glazing is a hardened putty that creates the weathertight seal between your window’s glass and its frame.

To resolve the fog issue, you’ll need to not only replace the glass panes, but also reapply new glaze.

Replacing Broken Glass

Similarly, if pieces of glass in your old windows are broken, you’ll need to replace it and reglaze.

Unfortunately, handling large panes of glass can be very dangerous. Professional glaziers, the job title of people who specialize in performing this type of repair, actually have quite risky jobs. That’s why DIYers should leave it to the pros who understand those risks and how to mitigate them.

Window Replacement

It might be tempting to throw caution to the wind and take on the task of replacing your own windows. Most homeowners, however, are unprepared for the amount of work associated with the process, as well as the glaring problems they could run into along the way.

If you need replacement windows, leave it to a reputable window replacement company. Why?

  • Window replacement requires expensive tools you may not already own, thus driving up the cost of your DIY project.
  • Mistakes are expensive. Can you afford to buy extra windows or to pay for unexpected repairs to your home’s interior or exterior? These are risks you take with the DIY approach.
  • You may void your new window warranty. Most window manufacturers only honor their warranties when authorized window replacement companies install their products.

In short, if you can’t diagnose the source of your leaking windows after major rainstorms, or if the damage to your windows requires specialized repair, contact local window installers right away to get an estimate.