How to tackle water leakage from Windows

It was one of those nights with heavy rain, wind and frequent lightning that is customary in Singapore.  You woke up in between in your high rise condominium unit to check if the windows were properly closed and went back to sleep.  Later in the morning you are shocked to discover that your sofa cushions are all wet because of water dripping from the window!  Looking in dismay at the seemingly sealed window you realize there’s probably a leakage from your Windows…..sounds familiar?

if you are one of those homeowners who’s been plagued with leaky windows then this article is for you.

Finding out Why and Where?

Water leakage is mainly due to gaps, gap between window frame and the wall due to improper levelling in the fenestration of your unit, gaps between your window and the frame at the joints due to shoddy installation; or it could also be due to collected rain water not being able to drain from the bottom window track.  Usually, light showers do not cause much trouble but when its heavy rain combined with wind it may bring water indoors.

Finding the precise point from where the leakage occurs can be a bit of detective work.  So, after you have been able to identify the few probably spots, you’ve got to seal them once and for all.  You will need a caulk gun or an expanding foam spray from your nearby hardware store to caulk the spaces between the wall and the frame.

While weatherstripping may be one solution to this problem, the other could be by ensuring a proper window installation

Preventive measures in your Windows

For the other mentioned causes of leakage, taking precautionary measures with your window installation can go a long way in addressing the issue.  Here’s few things you can do depending on the type of windows you have at home.

Sliding Windows

For Sliding Windows water may easily collect in the bottom tracks when there’s heavy rain accompanied by wind, this is prevalent more so in high rise homes.  So, its essential that the Window Contractor makes proper provision of drain holes & apertures in the bottom track frame and the angle strip.

Other than this problem, Sliding Windows are somewhat better equipped to prevent rain water from coming in due to the top U shaped slide guide that enclose sliding window panels

Casement Windows

These windows are more prone to seepage since they open on the outside and are totally exposed to lashing rain.  If inner rubber lining has worn off or cracked then water would eventually trickle in.  The other option is have a custom roof or awning done over the window if you are able to get the necessary HDB/BCA approvals.

Hope these tips will help you keep your indoors dry, without having to worry about rain water invading your living room on those rainy, windy days.