The short answer
What Causes the Leak
During a severe storm, wind drives rain horizontally against your window. The force of the wind can push water through tiny openings that would never leak in a normal rain. Wind pressure also lowers the air pressure outside your home, which can pull water through gaps and weep holes designed for drainage.
Another common cause is a failed seal. The caulking or weatherstripping around the window can crack, shrink, or pull away over time. If the window was installed without proper flashing or if the flashing has rusted, water can seep behind the frame and travel into the wall cavity, eventually appearing on your interior walls or floor.
Check the Window Frame and Seal
Start by inspecting the outside of the window. Look for gaps between the frame and the siding, missing or cracked caulk, and damaged or missing weatherstripping. Check the weep holes at the bottom of the frame; if they are clogged with dirt or paint, water can back up and overflow into the interior.
Also examine the glass itself. A cracked pane or a loose seal between the glass and the frame can let water in. If the window is old, the putty or glazing compound may have dried out. If you see any of these issues, resealing or replacing the window may be necessary.
- Inspect the exterior caulk line around the frame
- Look for cracks in the glass or frame
- Clear any debris from weep holes
- Check the flashing above the window
- Feel for drafts around the window on a windy day
- Look for water stains on the wall below the window
Water Can Enter Through the Wall
Sometimes the leak is not the window itself but the wall around it. If the siding, stucco, or brick veneer has cracks, wind-driven rain can penetrate and travel behind the window. A poorly installed window may lack proper flashing, which is a metal or plastic barrier that directs water away from the wall cavity.
Water that gets behind the window frame can soak into the wood studs, drywall, and insulation. That moisture can lead to mold growth and structural damage. If you notice bubbling paint, soft drywall, or a musty smell after a storm, the leak may be coming from the wall rather than the window unit.
What to Do Right After a Storm
Act quickly to limit damage. Move furniture and valuables away from the wet area, and place towels or a bucket to catch dripping water. If the leak is severe, turn off the electricity to that room if it is safe to do so. Do not touch wet electrical outlets or appliances.
Dry the area as much as possible. Use fans or a dehumidifier to reduce moisture. If you have a sump pump or wet vacuum, you can remove standing water. But do not attempt to repair the window or wall until the storm has passed and conditions are safe. See a doctor if you feel unwell from any mold exposure.
When to Call the Pros
If you cannot find the source of the leak, or if the water damage is extensive, it is time to call local water damage pros. They can use moisture meters to trace where water is entering and assess the extent of the damage. They can also perform structural drying to prevent mold and rot.
A window replacement may be needed if the frame is warped or the installation is faulty. The pros can also repair drywall and other materials damaged by the water. If you live in Rogers, keep a list of emergency contacts handy. Water damage can worsen quickly, so do not delay.
Talk to someone now
Call (479) 370-1500 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.
Call Now (479) 370-1500Frequently asked questions
Can I fix a leaking window myself?
You can reseal small gaps with exterior-grade caulk, but if the leak is from poor installation or a damaged frame, a professional repair is safer. For a temporary fix, use waterproof tape or plastic sheeting, but remember that a severe storm can overwhelm any quick patch.
Will my insurance cover the damage?
Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Flood damage from rising water is often excluded, while wind-driven rain may be covered under certain policies. Check your policy and document the damage with photos before you make any repairs.
How can I prevent window leaks in future storms?
Regularly inspect and maintain the seals and flashing around your windows. Replace worn caulk and weatherstripping before storm season. Consider installing storm shutters or impact-resistant glass. For older windows, a full replacement may be the right long-term fix.