Leaking Window Frame In Basement

Even brand new windows won t stop the water from coming in.

Leaking window frame in basement.

Leaking windows are rarely to blame for major basement leaks. If you notice water stains on the wall above the window or along the top or bottom of the frame this usually means there is a leak inside the walls. Check the exterior windows and doors casings each year for peeled or damaged caulk. Identifying the source of the leak roof and or wall leaks.

Re seal the glass to the gasket with clear silicone caulk. In the page top photo shows water leak stains below a basement window. If your window is leaking around the top of the frame you may not actually be experiencing a window leak at all. Observing evidence of the frequency extent source and causes of leaks water entry and actual building flooding is a critical step in evaluating a building as well as in planning the cure for building leaks water entry and mold.

In fact the only time a window leaks is when the caulking around the window frame is missing or has deteriorated to the point that water can penetrate the building envelope between the window frame and the foundation. Caulking windows to give them a finished look inside and out and seal out leaks and drafts is a fairly common diy task. Basement windows are also notorious weak points in your home. Basement windows aren t waterproof so water outside the window will find a way in no matter how tightly it s sealed.

Remove any damaged caulking and clean the frame of the window before recaulking the area check the window mechanics for broken mechanisms. They represent the weakest point in your basement s energy efficiency and they re a common entryway for groundwater. From the point of entry water will run downward enter the frame and collect along the flat surfaces of the top and bottom. You can try some simple maintenance work such as.

The purpose of windows in a basement is to allow in beauty and natural light and to make your basement feel less like a dungeon and more like a part of the rest of the house. Unfortunately stains on the top of the window frame are more likely to indicate a leak within the walls of your home. Many homeowners see water stains near the windows and automatically assume that the glass itself must be leaking. Remove damaged exterior caulking clean the window frame and recaulk.

A properly designed basement window complete with window well should not leak nor should it be a drafty ugly part of your home. When a basement window leaks many homeowners assume it s time to replace the window itself. But if done incorrectly it can lend a sloppy amateurish look. Check the gasket between the window frame and the glass.