| Posted By |
Message |
jambalady
Is it summer yet?
Member since 8/06 7392 total posts
Name:
Holly
|
HELP - leaky windows???
so, we just moved into our new home a month ago, and got everything repainted since there was paint peeling around all the windows, which the Sellers told us was from leaving the windows open durind a terrible rain storm (and the inspector agreed was a valid reason since it was raining the day he came and there were no leaks) and lo and behold, last night, wet streaks under our bedroom window!! I'm so upset. There definitely seems to be a leak under our windows. Do I need to get these replaced now? Could there be another reason? How much is this going to cost? We spent EVERYTHING on the downpayment and closing. I'm so upset.
|
Posted 10/5/06 9:00 AM  |
| |
|
Prudential Douglas Elliman Real Estate
Long Island's Largest Bridal Resource | Long Island Weddings |
Maathy317
Grammie's Little Man
Member since 2/06 3235 total posts
Name:
D
|
Re: HELP - leaky windows???
I would check the caulking on the outside of the window. If it is cracked or peeling away, re-caulk. It's fairly simple to do.
|
| Posted 10/5/06 10:28 AM |
| |
|
lulugrrl
My 3 Blessings
Member since 3/06 6551 total posts
Name:
L
|
Re: HELP - leaky windows???
I agree...could be the caulking, I just had to recaulk the windows on our sunporch, it was all cracked and peeling away....pretty simple inexpensive job!
GOOD LUCK!
Message edited 10/5/2006 10:57:20 AM.
|
| Posted 10/5/06 10:57 AM |
| |
|
jerome8283
LIF Adolescent
Member since 5/06 633 total posts
Name:
|
Re: HELP - leaky windows???
You're probably missing the head flashing over the outside of the window. Buying new windows is drastic. You should try to determine the cause of the leak first. It could be very simple. Also compare the other windows on the house. Do they have flashing that this does not? You need to look outside. Sealing inside could stop water from coming in however, the root of the problem is outside, the water will continue to drip between the walls and this will eventually create a much bigger problem.
|
| Posted 10/5/06 11:01 AM |
| |
|
jambalady
Is it summer yet?
Member since 8/06 7392 total posts
Name:
Holly
|
Re: HELP - leaky windows???
How would I go about determining the cause of the leak? This is our first house, so I know NOTHING!!! If I can avoid having to buy new windows, it would be great! Do I need a professional to come in and look at it? Any advice would be greatly appreciated!!
|
| Posted 10/5/06 11:09 AM |
| |
|
lulugrrl
My 3 Blessings
Member since 3/06 6551 total posts
Name:
L
|
Re: HELP - leaky windows???
Posted by jerome8283
You're probably missing the head flashing over the outside of the window. Buying new windows is drastic. You should try to determine the cause of the leak first. It could be very simple. Also compare the other windows on the house. Do they have flashing that this does not? You need to look outside. Sealing inside could stop water from coming in however, the root of the problem is outside, the water will continue to drip between the walls and this will eventually create a much bigger problem.
Oh yeah, we had a leak that needed new flashing in one spot....and all the caulking I did was on the outside, not inside...didn't mean to confuse.
|
| Posted 10/5/06 11:37 AM |
| |
|
lulugrrl
My 3 Blessings
Member since 3/06 6551 total posts
Name:
L
|
Re: HELP - leaky windows???
Posted by jambalady
How would I go about determining the cause of the leak? This is our first house, so I know NOTHING!!! If I can avoid having to buy new windows, it would be great! Do I need a professional to come in and look at it? Any advice would be greatly appreciated!!
You can get someone to come take a look for free usually. I got three estimates when I had a roof leak. trust me.. my DH and I don't know much...but are learning....part of owning a house I guess, LOL
Do yourself a favor and get the Home Depot Home Improvement tip book (big orange thing)..it tells you how to do a LOT of things...I now know how to change faucets, light swtches, all the little things, that you DO NOT want to pay someone to do.
|
| Posted 10/5/06 11:39 AM |
| |
|
jerome8283
LIF Adolescent
Member since 5/06 633 total posts
Name:
|
Re: HELP - leaky windows???
Welcome to home ownership!! It’s a learning process! Attempt to save yourself 
Look at the window from the outside. Flashing is a white aluminum lip usually above and below the window to guide the water away from the window. If it's not present or you see a difference between the leaking window and others than the flashing is the problem. Call a window installer. At least you will have done your homework and have an idea what the problem is and the installer will not take advantage of you.
It could also be a small opening in the white silicone used to seal the flashing around the window. If this is the case you can buy water resistant silicone from Home Depot or Lowes as lulugrrl did and apply it yourself. After applying test the area buy taking your hose and spraying the window with a light mist or wait for the next rain.
It can’t be that bad of a leak if you don’t notice significant water damage inside.
If you don’t have any luck, call a pro window installer. Good Luck!
|
| Posted 10/5/06 11:52 AM |
| |
|
