6 Signs of Water Damage around Windows

Most people put off replacement windows in Lake Oswego, OR until their existing windows are completely useless. But one problem homeowners can’t afford to ignore is window leaks when it rains. Water coming through any part of your windows can lead to a serious problem. That is why recognizing leaks and repairing or replacing the problem is so important. Here are a few signs you can watch for:

1. Water Accumulation

The most obvious sign of a leak is standing or pooling water around or below a window. It is important to investigate and figure out where the moisture is coming from. If the window is open you should be able to close the window, mop up the mess, and not worry much further. But if the window is closed the water is getting in through another way. Usually, these types of window leaks stem from faulty installation or worn out materials. Either way, it is important to repair or replace the window as soon as possible so you don’t have to deal with bigger problems.

2. Stains and Discoloration

Another sign of a window leak is the appearance of stains or discoloration. The area could be dry or wet, and it may appear copper, yellow, or brown. And if stains continue to get bigger it is a sure sign of a leak.

3. Mold Growth

Mold often occurs in areas with excess moisture like bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. But it can also start to appear around windows, on walls, ceilings, and baseboards. If this is in an area without any plumbing fixtures it is likely you have a leaky window or a leak behind the walls. Mold can look spotty, fuzzy, or black. And in addition to being an eyesore, mold produces airborne spores that can impact your health and wellbeing. You will want to clean the area and address the leak as soon as possible.

4. Musty Odors

Moisture and mold often produce musty odors. The smell often stems from areas where moisture has been accumulating for a while. For example, drywall can act like a sponge and when saturated produces lower air circulation. This is ideal for mold growth and you will notice stains and a detectable odor.

5. Peeling Paint or Wallpaper

When drywall absorbs water paint and wallpaper tend to lose adhesion. It starts to bubble and peel away from the wall. You might also notice fading or flaking. If this occurs around your windows it is time to test for leaks.

6. Warping or Sagging Ceilings and Walls

Flooring and walls around windows might also start to show major changes if the leak is serious. You might start to notice gaps developing between floorboards as the materials warp. You might also notice soft spots that feel spongy or start to sag because of the weight of excess moisture. And extensive warping could be the result of structural damage. All of these are expensive to repair.

If your window is leaking from the top of the jab, the bottom of the casing, or anywhere at all you need to get replacement windows in Lake Oswego, OR as soon as possible. Leaving them can be dangerous to the health of your home as well as the occupants. For more information stop by EnergyGuard Windows & Doors at 516 E. 2nd St., Newberg, OR 97132. Or call to schedule an appointment at (503) 554-5500.