Windows protect your property from the elements and regulate insulation. They also allow sunlight into your home and give you outdoor views. However, when they allow moisture into your space, you might require window replacements to prevent mold, water damage, and wood rot. If you notice water leaking around your fixtures, use this guide to determine the problem.

Why Are My Windows Letting Water In?

1. Faulty Flashing 

Flashing is thin metal sheet that seals the topmost areas of your windows to the home siding or masonry. If it’s incorrectly installed, it may become loose and cause water infiltration or drafts. It’s also possible for portions of the flashing to completely dislodge with storms. If the leak occurs around the top of the window, this is likely the issue.

2. Gaps & Cracks

Damaged caulking or weatherstripping won’t keep outdoor humidity and rainwater out. If you spot worn sections around the window frames, fill them with caulk to provide an airtight barrier against the elements. 

3. Improper Sill Angles 

Outdoor windowsills should slope downward to allow rainwater to drip away from the fixtures. If the sills are flat or slope toward the house, water will pool on your windows and seep through the seams. If moisture only occurs when it rains, this might be the issue.

4. Inadequate Insulation

Single-paned windows may not offer enough insulation to prevent condensation. This happens when the warm air inside the home comes into contact with the cold air outside. In this case, upgrade to glass that contains two or three panes of glass filled with gasses, which prevent moisture from entering the house. 

Keep your home protected from moisture and the elements with window replacements from Genesee Glass & Mirror in Rochester, NY. They provide insulated and dual-pane glass to prevent condensation and window leaks. All of their insulated glass comes with 10-year manufacturer’s guarantees. Call (585) 621-3580 to get an estimate, or visit their website to learn more about their window replacement services.