Windows take on a lot of damage over time, protecting us from wind, rain, snow, and other elements. Unfortunately, that means that they become less and less effective over time. As any house ages, water damage becomes more and more likely to make it indoors. Window leaks are a significant culprit for water damage. Windows that leak when it rains can quickly damage your home and lead to urgent electrical hazards and the appearance of mold and rot. You need to nip the problem in the bud as soon as possible.
It may seem easy to spot water dripping from the window. You may notice water pooled by the window after a storm or dark spots on the window sill. However, the culprit is not always the window. In many cases, these may be symptoms of a problem with the wall, siding, gutters, or roof. Ensure you know how to distinguish between roof leaks and window leaks and check for signs of the following issues.
Clogged gutters are a massive contributor to water damage. When gutters are not cleared, water will leak down the sides of the house instead. This water can become trapped in the boards the gutters are mounted to, allowing moisture to enter your home and causing water damage to the ceiling and walls. Moreover, clogged gutters could misdirect water to the basement, causing foundational damage or flooding. Water can easily crack our home’s foundation, which shifts its entire structure and undermines its overall stability.
When gutters are not regularly cleared away, they can damage the roof itself, as cracks begin forming and wood rotting away. Shingles will degrade from flowing water, allowing water to leak inside from the roof. As the build-up of water finds its way into the shingles and roofing material, it is just a matter of time before mold and mildew begin to grow.
The condensation buildup can be easily mistaken for rain leakage, especially when it is pooled on the window sill or floor. This condensation is typically created when the heated air comes in contact with the cold air outside. Condensation on your window is a huge indicator of poor insulation or ventilation in your home.
Look for signs of long-term leakage other than moisture gathering by your window. Symptoms include rotting wood on the exterior window frame or sill and peeling paint on the walls near the window and the interior sill.
Water can be the source of many problems within a home, mainly when residing anywhere, it shouldn’t be. The longer water is allowed to stay, the worse the problems become. Water damage becomes more dangerous as it promotes mold and mildew growth, while water damage restoration becomes increasingly more difficult. To ensure your safety and that your home isn’t damaged, contact professionals at Proven Professional Construction Service. Once water damage has infiltrated your home, they can start the water damage restoration process to bring your home back as you remember it.
