Window leaks can occur when water or air bypass your windows to enter your home and they are one of the most common window problems that homeowners deal with. They can be caused by a variety of different reasons and depending on their severity, they can range from being mildly annoying to causing structural damage to your home’s infrastructure. In this post, we take a closer look at what some of the causes of window leaks can be, the consequences of such leaks and the methods you can employ to fix them.
What Causes Window Leaks?
Window leaks can be caused by a variety of different factors including:
- Improper Installation: When windows are not properly installed in your home by professionals, there might be gaps between your windows and the wall, causing leaks.
- Wear and Tear: Windows consist of multiple moving parts and just all other home fixtures, they can become worn out over time, causing new gaps to form.
- Sealant Deterioration: Most modern windows have a layer of waterproof sealant between the frames and the wall to create an airtight seal. However, if exposed to constant UV radiation or unfavourable weather conditions, it can deteriorate and cause gaps to form between your windows and walls.
Consequences of Leaky Windows
Leaky windows are a problem that should be addressed as soon as you can and failing to do so can result in several consequences, such as:
Worsening Energy Efficiency
The energy efficiency of your home might be worsened as the gaps between your windows and your walls can allow air transfer between the inside and outside of your home. In warmer months, this can cause your home to heat up more and in colder months, cool down more. If you use air conditioning or heating systems, they will also need to work harder to compensate for these unnecessary energy transfers.
Structural Damage
If water is able to enter your home through your leaky windows, it might also potentially cause structural damage to your home. This is especially the case for homes with timber structures, which might become more susceptible to rot and mould growth as a result of the increased moisture levels.
How to Fix Leaky Windows
The solution to leaky windows will ultimately depend on the cause of the leak. For instance, windows that are leaking due to deteriorated sealant will require a new application of sealant or weatherstrips. If you are unsure as to what the appropriate measure to fix your leaky windows is, consider consulting a professional who will be best able to advise you on that.
Preventing Future Leaks
Once you have fixed your leaky windows, it is essential for you to ensure prevent future leaks by ensuring that you have a robust window cleaning and inspection regime and use proper window cleaning kits. Consider engaging professional window cleaners such as Acorn Window Cleaning, who will be able to get your windows looking as good as new while inspecting them in the process to check for any leaks. Contact Acorn Window Cleaning today for a free consultation on all your window cleaning needs.
