How Do I Stop a Window From Leaking in a Storm?
Last updated October 25, 2026
The short answer
Find the Leak Source
Start by inspecting the window from inside during the storm. Look for water trails on the sill, frame, or wall below. Water often travels along the frame before dripping, so the entry point may be higher than the visible wet spot.
From outside, examine the caulk joints between the window frame and the siding. Cracks or gaps are common entry points. Also check the flashing, the metal or plastic strip above the window that directs water away. If it is loose or missing, water can run behind the frame.
Clear Weep Holes
Weep holes are small openings at the bottom of the window frame that let trapped water escape. If they are clogged with paint, dirt, or debris, water backs up and overflows into your home. Use a wire or a small brush to clear them gently.
Check that the weep holes are not blocked by the window screen or any added insulation. Sometimes they are hidden behind the bottom sash. Knowing where they are and keeping them open is a simple step you can repeat before each storm season.
- Inspect caulk for cracks or gaps
- Check flashing above the window
- Clear weep holes with a wire
- Look for gaps in the frame seal
- Examine the sill for rot or damage
Reapply Sealant Carefully
If you find cracked or missing caulk, remove the old material with a putty knife or a caulk remover tool. Clean the area with a mild cleaner and let it dry completely. Apply a fresh bead of exterior-grade silicone or polyurethane sealant, then smooth it with a wet finger or a tool.
Do not seal the weep holes. They are meant to stay open. Apply the sealant only where the frame meets the siding, not between the sashes. If you are unsure, a local water damage pro can inspect the window and point out the right spots.
Check the Window Installation
Sometimes the leak is not from the sealant but from the window unit itself. If the window is old, the panes may be loose, or the frame may be warped. Water can also enter if the window was not installed with proper flashing or if the house settled and shifted the frame.
If you have checked the obvious areas and the leak continues, consider a professional inspection. A water damage inspection can reveal hidden issues like rot in the wall or a failed seal. The pros can also advise whether a window replacement is the more practical long-term fix.
Act Quickly to Limit Damage
While you work on the leak, manage the water inside. Move furniture and valuables away from the wet area. Use towels and a bucket to catch drips, and run a fan or dehumidifier to dry the sill and wall. Damp materials can lead to mold if left wet for more than a day or two.
If the storm is ongoing and water is pooling, you may need to tarp the window from the outside. Secure the tarp above the window and let it drape down, directing water away. After the storm, dry everything thoroughly and consider a professional drying service if the wall is saturated.
- Move furniture away from the wet area
- Use towels and buckets to catch drips
- Run a fan or dehumidifier to dry surfaces
- Tarp the window from outside during heavy rain
- Dry the wall and sill thoroughly within 48 hours
Water damage does not wait
Phones are answered 24/7 for Layton and nearby communities.
Call Now (801) 383-0232Frequently asked questions
Why does my window leak only during heavy rain?
Heavy rain often comes with wind, which pushes water against the window and forces it through tiny gaps. Light rain may not reach those spots. Check the sealant and weep holes, as they are the most common failure points during wind-driven storms.
Can I fix a leaking window myself?
You can handle simple fixes like clearing weep holes and reapplying caulk if you are comfortable. But if the leak comes from a structural issue or a failed installation, a professional may be needed. A water damage pro can assess the cause and suggest the right repair.
Should I replace the window or just repair the leak?
If the frame is rotting or the glass is loose, replacement may be more cost-effective. If the leak is only from failed sealant, a repair can last for years. A professional inspection can help you decide, considering the age and condition of the window.