Water leaking around windows might seem like a small issue—but over time, it can lead to expensive repairs, mold, and even structural damage. In Utah, where homes face dry summers and freezing winters, window leaks are a common and costly problem for both homeowners and multi-unit property managers. Knowing what causes these leaks—and how to solve them the right way—can save you from serious headaches.
Why Are Windows Leaking? The Real Causes Behind the Problem
Water intrusion doesn’t just happen randomly—it’s usually the result of installation errors, material breakdown, or environmental stress.
Here’s what typically causes window leaks:
- Improper Flashing or Installation: If flashing isn’t properly installed, water can bypass protective barriers and enter wall cavities. According to Building Science Corporation, improper window installation is a major cause of building envelope failure.
- Worn or Cracked Sealants: Utah’s intense sun and dry air wear down caulking and seals, creating gaps that let water in. Over time, these small failures lead to big problems.
- Blocked Drainage Channels: Many window systems are built with weep holes to drain water. When these clog with dirt or debris, water builds up and seeps into the wall.
- Structural Movement: As buildings settle or shift—especially in freeze-thaw cycles—window frames can move, pulling away from walls and opening leak paths.
The Damage Window Leaks Cause (And It’s More Than Just Water)
A small leak doesn’t stay small for long. If water intrusion is left unchecked, it can lead to:
- Wood Rot and Structural Weakness: Water damages framing around windows, weakening walls and sometimes floors.
- Mold Growth: Moisture creates a perfect breeding ground for mold, especially inside walls where it’s hard to detect.
- Rising Energy Costs: Leaks often let in drafts, making your HVAC system work harder. That means higher utility bills.
- Interior Damage: Warped floors, peeling paint, and water stains are all signs the problem is getting worse.
According to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI), window leaks are one of the top causes of hidden moisture damage inside residential and multi-unit buildings.
Solving Window Leaks at the Source
Most people try a quick fix—grab a tube of caulk and seal what they see. But that doesn’t solve the real problem. At RAM Builders Stucco & Exteriors, window leak repairs are handled with a building science approach tailored to Utah’s climate.
Here’s what they do:
- Precise Leak Detection: RAM Builders Stucco & Exteriors identifies where the leak really starts—not just where it shows up.
- Removal of Damaged Materials: They don’t patch over rot or mold—they remove compromised materials to stop damage at the source.
- Proper Flashing and Sealing: RAM Builders Stucco & Exteriors uses code-compliant flashing and commercial-grade sealants for long-term protection.
- Restoration and Protection: Once sealed, your exterior is restored to protect against future weather damage.
Get Expert Window Leak Repair in Utah—Before It Gets Worse
If you’re seeing water stains, feeling drafts, or just suspect a leak around your windows, don’t wait. What seems small now can lead to costly repairs if ignored. RAM Builders Stucco & Exteriors has over 25 years of experience providing window leak repair in Utah—and their team knows how to get the job done right.
Contact RAM Builders Stucco & Exteriors today to schedule an inspection and protect your home or multi-unit property from further water damage.
