I had a builder install a window in my art studio and I've noticed the window sill has water damage in the corners. I wasn't sure exactly where the water was getting in so I have used foam and silicone to seal the outside gaps between the window and the corrugated metal (that wasn't there before the leak started). I only had enough foam for one side so I used silicone for the other side. I also cleaned out the black rubber seals around the window pane and sealed those with some extra silicone though I don't think thats where the leak was coming from. my question is: what did the builder do to cause a leak this bad in just one year? And have I found and fixed the leak or could it be coming from elsewhere? Is it enough to run a dehumidifier inside to dry it out or do I need to do some excavating and rebuilding? many thanks!
Hi @AWolff,
If there was no seal between the corrugations and the window frame, then that could certainly have been the entry point for water. It's a little difficult to tell from the photos, but I'd also recommend checking the top of the window frame carefully to ensure that area is properly sealed. The top is often the most likely point of entry, as water naturally runs down the wall and can track behind the frame if there are any gaps.
Typically, you would expect to see a foam infill strip or similar sealing material fitted between the corrugated cladding and the back of the window frame. When compressed during installation, it helps close off the voids created by the corrugations and prevents wind-driven rain from getting through.
I can see you've already tried sealing some of the areas that looked like possible culprits, which is a good start. It may also be worth contacting the builder to let them know what's happened. They may have encountered this issue before, be able to advise on likely causes, or be willing to return and inspect or rectify the installation.
In terms of the moisture damage, it really depends on several factors: how much water has entered the wall cavity, whether the leak has now been completely resolved, and what materials have been affected. If it was a relatively minor leak that has only affected the sill area and you've successfully stopped the water ingress, then a dehumidifier and allowing the area to dry thoroughly may be sufficient. However, if water has been entering for an extended period or has made its way into wall framing, insulation or internal linings, there could be hidden damage that isn't immediately visible.
I'd suggest monitoring the area closely during the next few rain events. If no further moisture appears and the affected area begins drying out, that's a positive sign. If the damage continues to worsen, moisture readings remain high, or you notice mould, soft timber or swelling materials, then further investigation may be required to determine the extent of the damage and whether any repairs are needed.
Let me tag @Nailbag to see if he has any thoughts. Please let me know if you have any questions.
Mitchell
Hi @AWolff
Water ingress is always my biggest concern as it can be difficult to trace and be the cause of a lot of unseen internal damage. The home I just moved into has numerous points of entry to deal with. I agree with @MitchellMc in that the sides of the window doesn't appear to have been suitably flashed. Though I would have expected an issue well before 1yr down the track. So, it is possible it's coming from somewhere else. However, I also agree with him to lets see if the work you have done has rectified the situation. I would use a hair dryer to speed up the drying process. Then either wait until the next rain, or test your handy work with a light spray from a garden hose. both top and sides for several minutes. If no internal water appears we are off to a great start. The next test will be actual rain. If during a decent rain event the water comes in, then entry is possibly from above. In that case, I would contact a local leak detection service to track the source down.
Nailbag
